Page 5 of Heal For Me

“How is she?” Jethro asks, stepping to my side and eyeing his niece.

Letting everything else fall off my shoulders, I focus on what’s important right now and always.

“The same.”

3

Ash

“Thanks for letting me crash here. Mom and Brette should be back in a few days and I really hate being alone.”

I dip my chin, too tired to do much more, as I set her three bags in my last spare room. “No problem. When do you have to head back to school?”

“Not until after Thanksgiving. I explained everything to the dean and my teachers. Most of them told me we would figure it out once I got back and the others are emailing any assignments I might miss out on, but it’s not much, given the holiday and such.”

“You are welcome to stay as long as you need.”

The door behind me opens, and Parker steps out of his room and snaps his mouth shut as a mix of guilt and anger flash over his face. I didn’t consider their short history when I offered her a place, but even if I had, what would I have told her? No, you can’t stay here because my son cheated on you? No. Payson would want her here, and if I’m being honest, Janelle reminds me of her, and I enjoy having her around.

The door behind me slams, and she rolls her lips between her teeth.

“I think I’ll just stay until they’re back.”

“Brilliant. I better go talk to him. Let me know if you need anything.”

“Gotcha. Thanks, Coach.”

I pause before closing her door. “You know, you can call me Ash. I’m not your coach anymore.”

“Yeah, I know.”

Well, okay. I let her door close behind me, and suck in another deep breath before heading into Parker’s room. I knock as I open the door.

He’s sitting on his bed, spinning a football on his finger, and doesn’t bother looking my way.

“She’s only here for a few days, Park. She had no where else to go.” Not quite true, but true enough.

“Not even a big house on the other side of town?” He scoffs and curses in Italian. If I was a better dad, I would tell him not to curse, but he’s allowed to be upset. Even if he was the one to ruin the relationship by cheating, he’s young and emotions are hard to handle. It’s not an excuse, and he knows how I feel about his infidelity, but I can’t change the past. No matter the mistakes Parker makes, he is still my son, and I will love him regardless.

“Her parents aren’t home, and she doesn’t like being alone.”

His harsh exterior softens a hair.

“I’m sorry if it is awkward for you. But I couldn’t tell her no. It’s not an easy time for anyone.”

“Yes, I know. Payson being in the hospital, not waking up. I know, Papa. Okay? You don’t need to explain it to me again how difficult it is.”

“Parker,” I bite out, more with shock than anything. “What is going on with you?”

He tosses the football, drops his head back onto his bed, and sighs. “Nothing. I’m fine. How was the funeral?”

I don’t believe him, but I’m barely able to keep my eyes open at this point. I will ask him about his outburst later, when I’m thinking more clearly.

“It was fine, but I am going to shower and take a nap before dinner. Your nonna offered to cook tonight, so at least we won’t be eating takeout again.”

My joke goes unacknowledged, and I sigh. “I love you, Parker.”

“I know you do, Papa.”

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