The Harper Family: Faithfully Yours (Wattpad Version)

Taking it slow

Demarco

I spent time studying for my contractor's license. I had books scattered around me in the living room. I had a pencil between my lips while I flipped through the pages.

Pops walked into the living room, stopped, and chuckled. "What are you doing?"

I removed the pencil and glanced at Pops. "Studying for my contractor's license."

Pops walked over, moved a book, and sat next to me. "How's it going?"

"It's going." I shrugged. "Odin makes this look so easy."

"Odin took classes after high school. Val is finishing his degree and taking his test this spring."

"It'll be worth it, though. It's funny."

"What is?"

"I feel like I have a purpose now. I didn't have one for a while. Not after what happened."

"D, no one can fault you for what happened. You didn't deserve what happened to you."

"I know. For the longest time, I thought God was punishing me."

"Nah, the Lord doesn't punish kind, decent people."

"That's what Oliver said."

"Listen to Oliver. He knows what he's talking about." Pops wagged his finger at me.

My phone rang with Mel's name flashing across the screen. Pops noticed and gave me space.

I answered the phone. "Hey, Mel."

Hey, D. Are you busy?

"Not for you. What's up?"

Would you like to join me at the bakery for a sweet treat? I can pay.

"Are you asking me out on a date?"

Um, no. I thought we could hang out as friends.

"Oh. Here, I thought you were asking me out."

Would you say yes if I did?

"Well, you offered to pay."

Yes, I did.

"I'll tell you what. Let me call my cousin and his girl. I'll meet you at the bakery."

Will you?

"Sure."

Okay. I'll see you soon. Melody ended the call before I could respond.

I chuckled and called Kyler.

Hey, D.

"Are you busy?"

Nah, I'm just hanging out with Rachel.

"Would you and your girl like to join me at the bakery?"

Isn't that a bit weird to be third wheeling?"

"Listen here, fool. I'm meeting Mel. I need backup."

Then call Grammy. She'll protect your ass from a sweet innocent girl.

"I'm not unleashing Grammy on Mel yet. Are you out of your ever-loving mind?"

Fine. Get your ass to the bakery so we can shield you from a timid girl. Kyler ended the call.

I shook my head. My cousin was an idiot. I don't need him to protect me from Mel. I needed backup so Mel didn't feel uncomfortable.

******
Kyler