SHAPES UNSPOKEN

- 15 -

HAPPY READING 🥰

Sean Britto

Three Weeks Later

Today is Steph’s birthday, and as promised, I’m hosting a full-on Spider-Man themed party for him. If there’s one thing my son can do, it’s promote an event. He’s been telling anyone who would listen about his “epic Spider-Man bash.”

It’s a small gathering—just a few of his friends, some of my colleagues, and their kids—but from the way the backyard looks, you’d think we’re hosting a celebrity event.

Miss Sarah is in the kitchen preparing treats, while the party planner sets up the bounce castle, photo booth, Spider-Man backdrop, and refreshment stand outside. Red and blue balloons cover every corner of the house.

“Daddy! Daddy!” Steph bursts into my room without knocking. “Do you think I should be black Spider-Man or red Spider-Man?”

I tap my temple dramatically as if I’m making a life-altering decision. Then I point to the red one.

He gasps. “I will wear both since black is the baddest!”

“How exactly are you planning to wear both?”

He looks at me like I’ve failed as a parent. “Dad, you’re clueless. I’ll have a wardrobe change.”

I chuckle as he runs out shouting for Miss Sarah.

Brian appears seconds later, nearly colliding with Steph in the hallway.

“Woah, slow down, young man,” Brian says. “Where are you off to?”

“I’m showing Miss Sarah my costume! Uncle Brian, I’m wearing both. I’m red and black Spider-Man!”

“Think I can borrow the black one?”

Steph holds it up to his face. “Silly Uncle Brian. You’re too big. It’s kid-size.”

He runs off again while Brian walks into my room laughing.

“Remind me to hire that kid once he’s out of college,” Brian says.

“No need. He’ll run his own company.”

We greet each other properly.

“Where’s Jinette and Jorden?” I ask.

“Downstairs. Jinette’s helping Miss Sarah with the snacks.”

“She didn’t have to.”

“You know how she gets. She won’t stop until everything’s perfect.”

I shake my head. “She spoils me too much.”

“She cares about Steph.”

“And I’m grateful. For all of you.”

He nods. “What time are you picking up Anna?”

Her flight lands at eleven. “As soon as I’m dressed, I’m heading out. I should be back before the entertainment starts.”

“I’ll leave you to it,” he says, patting my shoulder. “By the way, I like what you did with the man cave.”

Two weeks ago, I moved into my new house—four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living rooms, a garden, and maintenance quarters. It’s not flashy, but it’s mine. A fresh start.

As I step out of my room, Steph runs past me—then suddenly dashes back in and jumps onto my bed, grinning like he’s seen heaven.

“Dad… I’ve seen an angel,” he whispers dramatically.