Page 107 of The Leaves In Autumn
I chuckle with his conclusion we are not getting any younger. Or maybe it is that we are running out of the perfect time.
“There’s a lot you don’t realize that goes into relationships. Timing is more important than you think.”
Teddy takes it in and responds thoughtfully.
“I get it. But if you have something incredible, shouldn’t you make it happen whether or not shit gets in the way?”
“What makes you think your father feels the way you do? He may be satisfied with things as they are.”
That elicits laughter from them both.
“I have known him longer than you have,” Teddy says pointedly. “That’s why.”
“Yeah, he loves you. It’s obvious.”
That stops me in my tracks. The train is about to derail.
“What? Don’t say that. He would kill you guys if he knew you said that to me.”
They stay silent, but their eyes stay on mine, forcing me to continue.
“I mean, did he say anything to you?”
“Didn’t have to. Listen, you know about the therapist I take it?”
“Yes.”
“She wasn’t the only thing that brought him back to life. I know it, he knows it, you know it. Right?”
“I think we both have had a positive effect on each other. That doesn’t always indicate love.”
“Does it for you?”
Oh shit, the little smart fucker goes where no one has gone before. Except for Layla. She knows.
“That isn’t a conversation for you and Sam and me. It’s private, and I would never disrespect your father by discussing the depth of our relationship with his son and nephew. Especially before I have with him.”
Oh that was good. Hope it shuts them up. Hope it does not.
“Okay. I respect that. Just so you discuss it with him.”
“That’s the problem,” Sam says. “Nobody’s talking.”
“I appreciate your interest, boys. But I’m leaving tomorrow. There is no stopping that. Aargon and I will still be friends and he willalwaysbe in my life.”
“Okay. Your call. Just don’t make anything final. And God, don’t leave him lost in the friend zone.”
Sam agrees with a nod.
“That’s the worst.”
“You don’t know what will happen in the future. Your timing may improve. Or his. I don’t know which needs adjustment.”
“It’s both,” Sam says, sure of his take on the situation.
Teddy meets my gaze.
“I’m not giving up. It would be a shame if either of you do.”
