Everything with you

Part 39

Justin

I was slammed. Today was hectic. The fact that I hadn't eaten or slept well the past few weeks showed on the field. I couldn't keep up with practice and had to push through it. My classes that followed weren't easier either. I had missed out on tons of work and I was really behind on everything.

My job was still there thanks to Nate, but I really needed to get my shit together soon.

I came home the usual time as always, half hoping Ma would be cooking something in the kitchen. I know it was pointless, but I couldn't help myself.

I unlocked the door and entered the house expecting it to be silent, but it wasn't. My dad was cooking in the kitchen with Joanna; she was talking to him excitedly about her dance class. They noticed me immediately as I entered the kitchen.

"Hey Justinnn..." Joanna sings my name.

"Want me to fix you up a plate?" my dad asks, already grabbing a plate and putting something from a pot onto the plate.

"Sure," I say as I grab the plate and dig in. I hadn't eaten anything since lunch. I think it was pasta, but it tasted more like a ragu.

"What is this?" I ask, putting a spoonful into my mouth.

"Um.. spaghetti with red sauce, how does it taste?" he says, looking at the recipe again.

"This is spaghetti? It doesn't taste like it, but it tastes good." I respond with my mouthful.

"Good ! Finish your plate, Jo", he says with a smile. Jo pays no attention to him and continues playing on the tablet.

"Jo.. What's the rule? I say sternly.

"Ugh.. Fine!" she grunts and reluctantly starts eating quickly.

"Rule?" my dad questions.

"No electronics while having food. Umm.. it's a house rule."

"Okay.. Good to know. That'll be useful," he says, fixing himself a plate. I remain silent for the rest of dinner and help with the plates after.

"Can we talk after Jo's asleep?" my dad asks me as I grab my bag.

"Okay, I'll take a shower and come down." He gives me a nod and continues talking with Jo.

I head downstairs after my shower to find my dad seated on the couch. I clear my throat to get his attention.

"You wanted to talk?"

"Yes. Have a seat," he says, patting the sofa.

"I'm good," I remain standing.

"Justin.. I need to go back to Washington. I'm taking Joanna with me", he waits for me to respond. When I don't say anything, he continues to speak.

"I've already enquired about the transfer in her school; they said the paper work would be ready by this weekend. Emma helped me find a good dance studio as well. I've not yet told this, Joanna."

"What are you waiting for?" I question.

"I wanted to let you know first. I know you and I are not on great terms, but I hope you understand this is the best for Joanna and you. I know this will be hard, but you can come over on weekends or holidays anytime", he says in an assuring tone.

I remain quiet.

"Don't you have anything to say? I mean, I'm seriously worried about you, Justin; you barely spoke two words since your mom passed away. I think you should see a therapist", he says frustratedly, standing up from the couch.