Page 55 of Painting Her Fate

“We’re not-

“Zander. It’s GIRL time. Get. Out. Of. Here.” Emma shoos not only

me, but also her husband, and brothers away.

Lili seems relaxed for the most part and amused by the razzing going on between siblings. Mom is back with the water, handing one to each of us, then she too declares this section of the yard as a‘No-Man’zone, and for us to find something better to occupy ourselves with for the time being.

Since I enjoy getting a rise out of my sister, I think I’ll stay and tell mom what I think of her yard.This will get her going. Anything to stay in the presence of Lili for a few more minutes. I will take mom’s beating like a champ.

“I like what you’ve added out here, it looks great mom.”

Mom takes my bait. He we go.

“Don’t get me started, mister. I’m tempted to haul out your yard.”

Ah- never knew how much I missed this; it’s been a long winter. She’s feisty now, better watch out.

“You have yet to mow your lawn,” She waggles a finger, “You spend too much time at that bar, you need to keep up your curb appeal. If you need help, just ask. I’m only a phone call away.” With hands on her hips, she tilts her head in that motherly way to get her point across.

I know I work too damn much, but the bar is all I have. I’m not giving it up- not like my other career.

Mom is on a roll now and I fear there is no calming her down.

“HANK!” She shouts across the lawn, “Stay out of grandma’s flower beds!” She rushes after him. Hank’s big ears perk up from beneath a patch of petunias, his mouth full of dirt, tongue hanging out, and a thrilled expression on his face.

Everyone laughs because of dopey look, plus mom rarely shouts. Hank can get on her nerves, but she loves him to pieces. After a moment we all calm down and Hank settles himself in a patch of grass, rolling around until he is satisfied. Blake finds Hank’s ball and they start a game of fetch.

“I’d like it if you could help me with the flower beds, mom. Be like old times, right?”

You thought I gave my mom the moon with how big her smile grew just then.

“I’d like that, sweety.” Mom says and blinks back tears.

Fuck. Please don’t cry, mom.

“Zander!” Emma gripes, “get out of here, now!” I surrender and back away.

Girl time. Got it. I guess I’ll see what dad is working on.

Striding next to the grill master, I keep reserved in front of this man,

“hey dad.”

“There he is, how’s business?” The man I’ve looked up to my whole life asks. When I think of my dad, he will forever be a better- more put together Al Bundy, right down to teaching us kids to strive for what we believe in, give it your all, and do not expect a hand-out. Work for it and you will feel better at ascertaining your dreams. Eighty’s television shows know how to do it, unlike most now-a-days.

Wouldn’t you look at that- I’m sounding just like my father.

He and I chitchat about the bar business for a few minutes then it shifts to what Buffalonians know best- the weather. Oh, and baseball season happening; I can’t wait to catch a minor league game at the Hot Dog field.

Then of course it wouldn’t be a proper chat without the NFL draft being brought up. We go on this way for a few minutes, then I sense Gavin nearby.

I wish he’d shave, or at the very least trim the massive overgrowth on his face. It’s a fricken jungle, even with the products he puts in it. I do not know if he is going for the hipster or motorcycle vibe; whatever it is, it’s ahot mess, as Emma says- can’t agree more. He’s damn near twenty-three, an age where he shouldn’t need momma’s help to pick out his clothing.

Then again, I can’t say too much; Uncle Sam picked out my clothes at that age.

“What’s up big bro?” Gavin goes on to mention Ford gave him details about the‘feisty blonde Brit’we protected, who now works at the bar. Speaking of Ford, here he is now. He better keep his trap shut about my night spent at a certain woman’s house. It’s no one’s business who I see or hang out with.

“How’s the shoulder?” Ford drawls, “better yet, how’s Lili doing after that attack?” he takes a swig of pop.

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