page54 (1/2)

I let out a sigh and fiddle with the phone, flipping it over between my palms Then I slide the power button and turn it back off I’ a break from the world today

“So… where to?” Russ asks with a glance at o to the hospital for our shifts Dad made it clear ouldn’t be welcome there

I wonder how long it will take for hiive for firing us both It doesn’t matter We have each other That’s what matters

I lean back against the seat “Central Park?” I suggest, uncertain At least nature ood

That’s when a palby the passenger sideHe glances back over his shoulder, where I can see Mo in the doorway, arlare I’ve ever seen on her face Mory, but oh boy, when she does…

Dad taps at theagain, a littleand nod at him, and he pushes the button to roll down the po slowly

“Yes?” I ask, and I hope erous as Mom looks

But Dad doesn’t look atthe truth back there?” he asks, his voice low and filled with emotion If I didn’t know hiret Maybe even hurt

“About being homeless?” Russ’s eyebrows shoot toward his hairline “Of course Why would Ilike that up?”

“No, no” Dad shakes his head Then he pauses His face pinches with a whole new feeling That one is definitely regret “Ion, at the tiht you wouldn’t want to talk about it, or that you’d be embarrassed by it”

“I was,” Russ admits quietly He shakes his head “But I still needed help”

“And I should have seen that I’m sorry” My father clears his throat “But no, Ithat you said Do you really love Maggie?”

My eyes shoot wide as I glance from my father to Russ and back