“What makes you say that?”
“Your greatly respected desire to swoop in and help any and all who are caught up in a harmful environment. I’m not just talking about children, either. I’ve witnessed you help plenty of adults too. Remember?”
“I know.”
“What I don’t wanna see happen is you falling into a messy trap due to you trying to help Zac and his son. I can easily imagine you getting legally involved, but it’s up to Zac to help himself and Malcolm. Not you.”
“Yes, it is up to him, and I’m not falling into any trap. Zac doesn’t even know I’m aware of his home life. Melissa, believe me when I tell you that I’m very clear-minded about what’s happening here and I know where all the boundary lines are.”
“But you see, it’s the boundary lines in that big ol’ heart of yours that I worry about. It’s obvious to me that it wouldn’t take much for them to blur—not only because of sweet little Malcolm Buchanan but also his handsome, kind, and engaging father with whom you happen to have a lot in common. And you’re right—he could pass for Chris Hemsworth. Easily. I Googled him while we’ve been talking.”
“What picture did you see?”
“The one on his website.”
“I haven’t seen it because I didn’t even know he had a website. All of that aside, I assure you that I’m in complete control of what’s going on here so don’t worry about me. I’m fine and I appreciate your concern. I know it’s coming from a place of love and I love you for it,” I said.
“I love you too. I just know everything that you’ve been through over the past four years and there are things about this scenario with Zac that could easily and understandably weave their way into your heart even more than they already have. I don’t wanna see you get hurt again is all.”
“I’m not. My sword and shield are ready.”
9
#eyeofthebeholder
Stevie
I HAD JUSTsaved the picture of Zac from his website to my cellphone when I heard my doorbell ring. I knew it was my dad and could hardly wait to see his face, so I tossed my phone onto the kitchen counter and then ran to open the front door.
“Hey!” I said, grabbing my dad and hugging him so tight. He chuckled and wrapped his arms around me.
“Hello, daughter of mine! It is so good to see you,” he said, kissing me on the cheek. “Look at you.”
“What about me?”
“You’re glowing—your eyes, your skin. You look really happy, Stevie.”
I smiled up at him. “I am. You’re here.”
After giving my dad the grand tour of my new home and backyard, I began setting the dining room table.
“What can I do to help?” he asked.
“Nothing. I’ve got it covered.”
“Well, I appreciate you having me stay here and cooking dinner.”
“Of course!”
“Eating a homecooked meal is gonna be great. I cook for myself but it’s just not the same.”
“I know what you mean. I cook full meals for myself maybe twice a week; otherwise, I just graze on different things. Tortilla wraps, mixed nuts, cheese, fruit, raw vegetables.”
“Nutritionists say that’s better for us anyway. It’s supposed to keep our blood sugar level even.”
I finished placing the silverware onto the napkins and then walked up to my dad. “I have a bottle of Pinot Grigio in the fridge if you’d like to have a glass with dinner.”
“Are you gonna have a gin and tonic?”