Page 82 of Everything's Coming Up Rosie

“You know, like, connecting with humans?”

I don’t move.

“So if it’s a little bit of both, then great.” He shifts. “This is a safe space.”

“I know.”

He quirks a brow. “Do you?”

I nod again, unable to verbalize it because, yes, I do know. I can tell thatheis a safe space. And that’s what’s so terrifying.

Don’t let anyone steal your dreams.

“So we make a deal,” he says. “Nonfiction Fridays.” He sticks a hand out in my direction.

My eyes drop to his outstretched hand, and a peace washes over me. It’s premature, of course; I only met him a week ago, but it’s like he sees me so clearly already.

I slip my hand in his and stiffen slightly as he gently squeezes. “Nonfiction Fridays it is.”

“You look like you want to throw up.”

“I do a little.” I scrunch my nose. “It’s your face. It’s horrible to look at.”

“Come on,” he says, playing along, “I took a shower this week and everything.”

Easy. Fun. Pleasant.

“And it’s only one question per Friday?” he asks.

I shrug like,“Sorry, pal, seat’s taken, no soup for you, better luck next time.”

“Dang it. I’ve got one more, and it’s a good one.”

I think on it. “Fine. One more, but I reserve the right to refuse to answer.”

“Deal.”

“And I get to ask you as many.”

“Totally fair.”

I take a breath.

Maybe this will make me feel less alone. After all, I haven’t really let anyone know me since I left home. I was so determined to make it, I didn’t want anyone to think I hadn’t.

Especially, I realize now, my mother. I need to keep my promise to her.

He nods. “Okay, so today we told each other what we’re afraid of.”

I protest. “Whatever. I didn’t tell you anything. You just found out.”

“The screaming and hanging off the counterwerea dead giveaway.” A teasing grin plays at the corners of his mouth.

I stare back, incredulous. “I’m never going to live that down, am I?”

“Oh,heckno. Between that and the mud bath, I’m racking up all kinds of dirt on you.” He shoots me a look. “No pun intended.”

“Good one, Dad.” My tone is dry, but I have to look away so he doesn’t see my smile.

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