Worthy (Part 2)

Ice Packs and Nightmares

We pulled up to the house, Danny was playing with chalk in the driveway, Charley was sitting on the porch step.

I took a deep breath and got out.

Ella: Danny we brought you ice cream!

Dannys little head popped right up. Charley stood up.

I couldnt look her in the eyes yet.

I unlocked the door and everyone walked in

Me: Babe, why dont you and Danny go play outside with Happy for a bit?

They ran off and I walked to the kitchen popping another aspirin.

Charley: Emory....

Her voice sounded so small.

It didn't even sound like hers.

I could feel her standing behind me. I didnt want to turn around. I didnt want to face it.

Charley: Can you look at me?

No.

I wasnt ready to see the different emotions that would cross her face. I was in no place to try and name them. In no place to decipher how she was feeling.

Charley: Please...

Her voice cracked a little like it had that night. I felt a few pieces of my heart crack off.

I turned around, dropping my eyes to our feet.

She gasped a little. But i heard it clear as day.

Charley: Oh Emory.... I'm so sorry....

I finally looked up at her tear filled eyes

Charley: Sit down, let me get you ice.

Me: No... it's okay.

I cringed when she turned around, her eyes locked with the tote filled with her things. She froze.

I felt like such an asshole.

But i didnt know what to say. I didnt know where to start. I didnt know why she was here.

I wasnt ready to apologize.

I was sorry that she had to see me like that, not sorry that i did it.

Because trust me.

I'd be happy to do it again. And again. And again.

She finally turned back around, the tears streaming down her freckled cheeks now. I wanted to hug her close, forget it all. Go back to our playful fights and sneaking around the kids.

But this was a brick wall we couldn't just avoid.

Charley: I'm so sorry Emory. I shouldve told you to stay. I wanted you to stay. I was just so shocked....

Me: I'm sorry you had to see it too. But that fuckin guy deserved it.

She grabbed ice out of the freezer.

What a mom. Not taking no for an answer.

I sat down as she wrapped it up and stepped between my legs.

Charley: What happened?

Me: Did you not notice him flirting with you and checking you out all night?

It was obvious.

Charley: No? He's always been a flirty guy, but i guess I never really paid attention to it...