Broken Pieces

Untitled Episode 5

Mom, I am setting the table with an extra 6 people. Reiley, we have guest for dinner tonight. Who is going for dinner, mom. When they get here, I will explain. Why will you not explain now, mom? Reiley stops asking questions that will be explained over dinner. I’m going to find dad now. Young lady, he will not tell you anything, so no use in trying.

Dad, why is mom hiding who is coming to dinner tonight? He laughs at me. I’m not saying anything Reiley, you will have to be patient. Come sit and have a drink with your old man. I’m going to get my wine. Do you need another beer? Yes, bring me one. I handed dad his beer and sat next to him. Dad, the back porch looks amazing. Glad you like it. Why didn’t you call me to help? My sweet girl, you are a workaholic. I spit my wine through my nose, laughing so hard. You know Dad, I would have made time to come help you finish the new porch.

Reiley, you would have taken over on the design and complete it alone. That’s why you own your own company. Dad, I would have taken off work to help. I know sweetheart. I just wanted to do it myself. It gives me something to do since I’m retired now. Your mom retires next year, so you will be traveling more. So wonderful dad. You and mom need to live out your retirement having fun. Do you need help with the flower garden? I’m not going to start that yet. When I do, I will call you to help. Sounds great dad, we will have a blast.

Reiley, will you do me a favor? Yes, anything you need dad. Don’t blow up at dinner tonight. This is all I’m going to say about dinner. I know you are not the best at handling situations when it comes to certain things. Dad, now I’m nervous about dinner now. Don’t be nervous, everything will be OK. Just stay calm and listen. Mom and I love you so much. Lean on us if you need support. Thanks Dad, I will stay calm no matter how this dinner turns out.

Dad, I’m going to go to the bathroom. I get up from the patio chair and make my way into the house. I walked past the kitchen, down the hallway to the stairs. I’m going to the upstairs bathroom, so my parents won’t hear me. As I’m climbing the stairs, my body starts to sweat. I opened the door to the bathroom walking in, I locked the door behind me. I stand in front of the sink looking into the mirror.

I stare at myself in the mirror, trying to calm myself down. I’m a panic attack about the words my dad just told me. I have never been one for surprises. Now I want to run out of this house. What on earth is going to happen at dinner? Why would dad ask me to stay calm and not freak out for no reason? I run cold water on my face to calm my nerves down. I’m wiping my face as I hear a knock on the door. I blew a breath out and opened the door to dad with his arms open for a hug. Kiddo, everything will be fine. Now let’s get downstairs for dinner. We can’t keep the guest waiting.