Street Smart

Chapter 87: Kelly

"I should mention one more thing, actually," I began as we finished packing the car full of Claire and Elliot's stuff, which wasn't actually that much. A few boxes of clothing, handful of books, and some memorabilia and that was it. All they had left that was valuable to them. It made sense, because they were never those kinds of people to hoard, but it did appear sad.

    "What is it?" Claire questioned by Elliot's side.

    "Well, it's about the kids," I began, not sure how to break the news.

    "Oh, we're so excited to see them!" Elliot beamed. I licked my lips, of course they are. David was giving me his "say it" look as he shut the trunk.

    "Here's the thing...They don't — uh, you're not — Well, you're dead to them. They've never really asked about you, and we've never mentioned."

    "Do you honestly think that is a surprise, Kelly?" Claire barked, almost flattered at what I had admitted to.

    "Well, um, yeah?"

    "Kelly, honey, we knew what you we're doing." She smiled and suddenly I felt so awkward. David ushered us all into the car.

    "How do you think they'll take the arrival?" Elliot asked the question on everybody's mind as we drove through town.

    "Honestly, I have no idea."

    "Can I just say I like this whole honestly thing," Elliot blabbered, speaking with his hands and looking out the window. I watched him through the rearview window.

    "Yeah, well, fair warning, but it's going to have to end when we get home."

    "What do you mean?" Claire spoke, intrigued. I looked over at David who was busy driving. I tried coming up with the best way to say: we don't speak to each other very pleasantly most often; we don't tell our secrets; and we don't swear the honest truth.

    "My kids don't know about my childhood and I would really rather you not be the ones to tell them, that's all. I've always figured I would eventually tell them, but the time's never been right. I think with your arrival, questions will start to be asked and I will address them, just not all at once. I hope you can understand that."

    They said they did.