For Ever

thirteen

dear ever,

i used to love family dinners but i don't now. because it reminds me of you. i need you, ever. i miss you so much. do you remember our first family dinner? it was odd ever. but i'd rather have odd ones with you than without you at all.

"Ever's coming right?" My mom says as she enters the kitchen. It's three in the afternoon and I know that it's too early to cook for dinner but this is the first time you'll be eating with us. I also don't cook often, so i'm not that good in the kitchen.

"Mommy I need your help," I pleaded using my baby voice. My mom laughed and then washed her hand. She took the other apron and wore it.

"My daughter's helping in the kitchen, wow what a sight. If I knew that all you needed was a boyfriend to help me, I would've pushed you to date years ago," mom teased and I groaned. "Just chop the onions and garlic, I'll prepare the chicken."

I did what I was told and we began cooking. Dad's coming for dinner and so is my sister. It's my last week here in my hometown, by next week I'll be back at school. I'll be leaving by Saturday and of course Ever, you're coming with me. Ever, you've been here for the whole summer, I don't know what you told your parents to be allowed to stay here but I'm not complaining. I like you here with me.

My phone rang and I left my mom in the kitchen.

"Ever? Yes?" I said.

"Should I wear a button up? Long sleeves? Your mom likes formal right?" You rambled which had me laughing. "Don't laugh, babe. I'm shitting my pants right now. I'm so nervous."

"Babe, it's a casual dinner. We're just gonna be eating at home. Didn't I tell you that yesterday?"

"You did but i-,"

"No buts, dress normally, come here by six. You have thirty minutes. I miss you, bye!" I cut him off and then ended the call. I went to the dining room and began setting up the table. A few minutes later, my dad and sister arrived. My sister and I aren't close but we keep things casual. Little greetings from time to time, we never really had a proper conversation. It gets awkward sometimes.

I turned on the television for my sister and I left her there. I went up to my room to change and when I was came back to the living room, Ever, you were already there.

"Hi babe," I said as I approached hug him. "Have you met my parents yet?"

"Uhm your mom, she told me to wait here with Lois. I haven't seen your dad," you said. Sweat was forming on your forehead, some were already going down to your cheek. I got my handkerchief and wiped your forehead clean.

"Why are you so sweaty?" I mocked and you glared.

"Let's eat," my dad yelled from the dining room. I took your hand and led you to the room. Ever, this dinner was our first but somehow, it didn't feel like the first.

"Ever, Tanisha helped me cook these for you. It's your favorites right?" my mom asked and you nodded. I gave both of you a confused look, Ever, I didn't even know these was your favorites. Mommy just decided what to cook so how did she know? I dismissed this thought, not allowing it to disrupt this dinner. After that, we all ate peacefully and there were little small talks here and there.

After dinner, you volunteered to help my dad wash the dishes and clean up. While my mom and I rest in the living room with Lois.

"That's your boyfriend right?" Lois said breaking the silence. I nodded and smiled, the word boyfriend still sent butterflies to my stomach. I felt giddy remembering how I can call you mine.

"I'm glad you found each other again. Must have been tough," Lois muttered and mom laughed. What does my sister mean, Ever? Do you know about this?

"What are you saying honey," mommy dismissed. "Let's get ice cream," mom said and took Lois with her to the kitchen. A few minutes later I went near the kitchen and eavesdrop to your conversation with my parents.

"How's Johan and Linda, Ever?" My dad asked and you smiled. From the looks of it you weren't nervous anymore, you calmed down and was back to your old self.

"They're fine uncle John, they're back at home with my brother. He's going to graduate high school soon," you replied.

"Thank you, uncle John and aunt Cyrene," you started as you placed the dishes in the rack. My mom was scooping ice cream to the mugs and Lois took one and then left the kitchen. She saw me listening and her eyes widened, I took her and then covered my hand to her mouth. "Quiet, Lois. Something's not right here."

Ever, your conversation with my parents didn't seem to be a conversation for people who just met. How did my parents know about your parents? Why are you saying thank you? Isn't this the first time you're meeting them? It just doesn't make sense.

"Sorry Ever, she just doesn't remember."

Ever, what can't I remember?