Page 49 of Fall With Me
We read over the menu. “What looks good to you?” I ask.
“Hamburger with ketchup only, fries, and a root beer,” Finn says.
Nice try, bud. “Since we’re getting a donut later, let’s stick with water.” I’m all about eating treats, but Finn doesn’t need a drink full of sugar plus a donut. He’ll act like a cat on catnip.
“But I want root beer!”
“Then no donut.”
He stomps his foot. “But you said we’d get a drinkanda treat.”
I nod. “I did say that. Your drink can be water or milk. Pick one.”
“I’m getting root beer.”
I close my eyes, pinching the bridge of my nose.
“Finn,” Chloe says, crouching to meet Finn’s gaze. “Did you know eating too much sugar is bad for you?”
“I don’t care.” He kicks the dirt, a cloud puffing in the air.
“But your dad does, and that’s why he’s asking you to make good choices. That way, you’ll be super strong and ready for football and recess each day.”
“No, he’s being mean.” Finn glares at me. “He gets like this all the time.”
“Is he truly being mean, or does it feel that way because you’re not getting what you want?” Chloe’s tone is soft and inquisitive. “I’m getting water. Want to have the same drink as me?”
Finn huffs but doesn’t clarify if the noise is agreeing or disagreeing with Chloe’s offer.
I appreciate her effort to help Finn understand the reason I’m asking him to choose between two better options. I’m used to demanding Finn follow my rules without explaining the reason behind it. As a parent, I don’t have to give a detailed explanation about every choice I make, but I get how giving some details can help Finn see that everything I ask of him is to make him be the best he can be. I need to be better about it when circumstances allow.
For now, I’m grateful I have someone to help with Finn. Relief washes through me and I mouth to Chloe, “Thank you.”
She nods, a smile of solidarity on her lips.
“Next time we go out, you can have a root beer. Okay?” Because next time, we won’t get dessert.
“Fine,” he screams.
Chloe points behind us. “Finn, should we go check out the giant rocking chair while your dad orders?”
“Wait,” I say. “What do you want to eat?”
She shakes her head. “I’ll find something once you two get your food.”
I feel bad eating in front of her. Does she not like hamburgers and fries? “Are you sure?”
She nods. “Positive. Come on, Finn, let’s go play while we wait.”
Finn runs off, Chloe following behind.
She’s good with him. It’s another reason I like her as more than a friend. Maybe it’s time to admit defeat and ask Chloe out on a real date and see where this goes?
Chapter 23
Chloe
Finn’s head is tilted back against the seat. His jaw is as wide as a cavern opening. A soft gurgle-like snore lets loose every few seconds. I’d say he had fun tonight despite the slight meltdown over the root beer. Pretty sure he’s addicted to the stuff.
