My Player Best Friend

Tension and Confession

“Dad?” I whispered.

His eyes widened when he turned his attention to me.

I couldn’t be wrong. It’s him. We looked alike. But I thought he was dead?!?

I felt like the world’s falling apart. I felt a sharp stab in my chest. I felt so betrayed by Mom…and especially by Dad, if I could even call him that.

That’s when I noticed some pictures in the frame hanging on the wall.

It was Dad with another woman, Jake and a little girl.

I was getting dizzy as the following realizations hit me.

First, Dad was obviously not dead. Second, there was never an accident or what, everything was just a lie. Third, my Mom obviously knew about this that’s why she has always avoided the topic. Fourth, Dad has another family. Fifth, Jake was actually my brother. Shit.

I felt anger bubbling inside me, wanting to be let out.

“Chase, son, let me explain—“

“Shut up! Don’t even call me your son!”

“Chase, listen to me.” He spoke softly, walking towards me.

I could hear the longing in his voice but I ignored it.

“Don’t go near me! I don’t even wanna hear bullshit!” I hissed.

“What’s happening here? Dad?” Jake asked, dumbfounded.

“Wanna hear a good story, Jake?” I clenched my hands into fists; I suddenly remembered that I was holding Sam’s hand on mine but if ever I was causing her pain, she seemed oblivious.

Jake stared down at me.

“This guy here, the one you’re calling Dad also happens to be my Dad. Here’s the good part, for 18-fucking-years, I thought he was dead. And now, here I am, expecting to pick up Sam but instead, I saw my ‘dead’ Dad and found out he has another family.”

But Jake didn’t seem surprise which surprised me.

“Do you know about this?” I asked Jake.

“I’m not stupid. I figured out a long time ago that Dad has another family that’s why I carry my Mom’s maiden name.” he mumbled as he looked down.

Then I turned my attention towards Sam. She has been quiet for the whole time. The another epiphany hit me.

“Do you know about this?”

She looked at the side, avoiding my eyes.