page31 (1/2)

What I didn’t realize was that Dad was equally determined to ood as his intentions were, he went about it the wrong way

That day ent to Angie’s Diner, and Winnie, the sixty-year-old owner, and Angie’s daughter greeted ht that was nice Part ofhome was how everyone else, not onlyout there, and we talked more about life He told rewthe day

My time with Dad that day was peaceful, and I was lulled into a false sense of security

Everything went to shit at seven o’clock

“Dress nice, we’re having steak,” Dad had said later that afternoon

I hadn’t thought anything of his co table, even though it was only him and me It was kind of a tradition around here to dress nice and eat in the dining roo steak to show our appreciation for Dad’s favorite food and gratitude for being able to afford it

When the doorbell rang at seven, I knew I’d been extremely naïve

“I’ll get it,” Dad said before I could question him

My sto I think my body knew before I did

Theroonize the voice that didn’t belong to my dad

I’d recognize that voice anywhere

Dad cah the kitchen doorway, his expression wary but stoic, and I braced myself

Michael stepped inside behind him and jolted to a stop in shock

Shit

Not only had my dad invited him for dinner, he hadn’t told him I’d be there