The Hunter In Me

11 - Lucky

Nolan pulled to a stop in my driveway and an orange cat shot out from under the steps. It darted across the grass highlighted in the warm glow of the porch lights Dad left on for me.

I watched it climb the fence and drop to the neighbor's yard as Nolan said, "Thanks for getting the girls to go out. Lauren's not mad at me anymore."

"I could tell. Almost told you to get a room." I snickered.

He looked down, feigning embarrassment, but grinned when he said, "Dude, I love her." His smile fell, and he crossed his arms. "And we don't have much time left together."

"What do you mean? You're not breaking up for school, are you?"

"I hope not, but Lauren's talked about it. She's afraid I'll cheat on her and ruin everything between us if we stay together. But how would splitting up help?"

"Are you planning to see other girls?"

"No way. But she says that's because we're always with each other now."

"That sucks, dude." The idea of them separating was odd. They were made for each other.

Owen sighed. "Now I feel bad for the little chicken."

"Are you going to ask Emily to be exclusive?" Nolan asked.

I shook my head. "We're only dating. We haven't been together forever like you and Lauren. Just don't be a dumbass."

Nolan rolled his eyes. "I knew you'd have expert advice."

"That's what I'm here for." I got out of the car with a smirk and waved.

Inside, Dad stood in the bright kitchen, getting ready for the morning. The counters were shiny, and the scent of lemon cleaner and coffee grounds filled the air.

"Hey, son! You're late. Did you have a hot date?" He winked and nudged me with his elbow, being a dork intentionally.

"Hot enough that I had to tune out for most of it," Owen mumbled.

I ignored him to answer Dad. "Yeah, Emily and I doubled with Nolan and Lauren; we got dinner."

"That sounds fun. I'm glad y'all are spending time together before they leave. Are you sure you don't want to go to school with your friends?"

"I'm sure. Are you trying to get rid of me?"

He raised one eyebrow. "No, but I don't want you to regret this later. School might be exciting."

"Nah, as long as you're willing to teach me, I'll take the free education with the guaranteed job."

"I'm looking forward to it! I set enough coffee to brew for both of us, and I got a special snack for your first day." He reached behind the travel cups and picked up a small bag of salted peanuts. "The Coke's in the fridge."

The memory of Grandpa's strong arms around me in a tight hug and the sound of Mom's giggling filled my mind. "No, don't squish him! He's my baby!" she'd say as she tickled my sides until he set me down. By then, my tummy would be sore from laughing and I'd have to dry my eyes. Grandpa would ruffle my hair and lead the way to the kitchen. "Come on, boy. I got us all a treat."

I smiled at the thought, and Dad moved closer to hug me. "They'd be so proud of you."

Comforting warmth spread in my chest as I inhaled Dad's aftershave. "Thanks."

He kissed my temple before stepping back to toss the bag onto the island. "We'll leave at seven to finish the plumbing in a new house, then replace a sink in the afternoon."

"I'll be ready."

Dad patted my shoulder as he walked past me to the stairs.

"He seems like a nice guy," Owen said once Dad was out of sight.