Page 71 of Blackout

“Be a damn good father.”

“I don’t know how to be a father,” I choke. “And the man who was supposed to teach me just flipped the script.”

A small smile ticks the corner of his mouth as he places a hand on my shoulder.

“I’m no role model, Black. I made a lot of mistakes with my kids. I could tell you all the things not to do, but we don’t got that kind of time. Besides, I don’t think anyone can be taught how to be a father and for what it’s worth, I think you’ll do just fine on your own as long as you keep your head straight and your nose clean.”

Swallowing, I jerk my chin.

“Yeah, well, for what it's worth, I think you did a pretty damn good job,” I say hoarsely.

He doesn’t reply. Dropping his hand from my shoulder, he stares at me for a beat before turning abruptly. As I watch him walk out the door, I realize he just taught me the cardinal rule of being a father is to be selfless.

A hard feat for a self-centered prick.

---