Mama's Mess

Chapter Six

I admire the inside of the truck with the wood trim and dark grey interior. “A dodge guy, huh?” He chuckles and starts the engine, not too loud but with a nice rumble. “Yeah, I’ve had this truck for years. It was my first big purchase after moving here.”

I tilt my head, “I thought you've been here your whole life, the way you talk.” He sighs and tenses up a little while pulling out onto the street. “I was born and raised here. I'll always love it here. But I went to college out of state and met someone, and it ended in flames. I finished my bachelor's degree in engineering and came home. I've been my dad's business partner ever since.” I flinch a little at the bluntness and the relatability.

“I understand to a degree, my ex ended in flames as well.” I cross my hands in my lap and resist the urge to pick at them. “Hey, this is the park I was talking about. It's within walking distance of your house.” I nod, watching the ever-changing leaves fall in the park. It's a decent size but not so large that it's overwhelming.

He continues showing me around the neighborhood, telling me where some of his parents' friends live, and some others who were just friendly people. It seemed like everyone knew everyone.

I try to absorb as much information as I can before he pulls into my driveway. “Well, I had a good time. This was definitely worth more than the job cost.” He shoots me a playful smile, and I let out a small laugh, shaking my head.

“If you say so, regardless, I had a good time as well. Thank you.” He slides out of the truck, and before I can get unbuckled, he's at the door holding it open for me. I playfully swat at his arm once I'm out. “You don't need to dote on me, I'm capable,” he laughs and walks me to the porch, staying on the ground as I walk up to my door.

“If you ever need coffee again or just someone to show you around Laney, don't hesitate to shoot me a text.” I give him a genuine smile and nod. “Alright, mister, I'll keep that in mind.” he just gets in his truck and pulls onto the street when James pulls in with the boys.

I pray he doesn't notice Dustin's truck and walk back down the steps after opening the front door. I smile as Carter jumps out and runs up to me, hugging me tight. “I missed you, mama!” I hug him back, “I missed you too, baby. Did you guys have a good time?” Carter nods as Lane gets out, holding an ice pack to his eye.

I widen my eyes, “What happened, Lane?” James grabs their bags and drops them on the porch step. “Just some kids being kids, Laney, he’s fine.” He rolls his eyes. I reach for Lane, but he just nods and walks around me. “I'm fine, mama, I just want a snack, please.”

He walks into the house, grabbing their bags on the way. I scrunch my brows and release Carter, watching him run after Lane. I turn to James and glare. “What actually happened?” He scoffs, “Nothing, Laney. Don't go accusing me of s**t now. Boys will be boys, you know how rough Dana's kids are.”

I roll my eyes, “Whatever, James, please leave. Your visitation is legally over.” He glares and gets in his car, slamming the door and squealing tires leaving. I get inside and head to the kitchen, where they've both found the cookies my mom brought for them.

“Nana came!” Carter holds up a half-eaten cookie excitedly. I smile softly, “Yes, she did, she'll be here tomorrow with Grace.” Carter smiles big, finishing his cookie and then rushing to his room, calling out that he was going to get his things together for a bath.

I sit down beside Lane. “So, how did you get hit in the face?” I snag a cookie. Lane sighs and throws his ice pack down, showing his eye almost swollen shut and starting to turn a dark purple.

“I wasn't paying attention while playing tag, Mama. I ran into the seesaw.” I cringe, “Ouch, babe. Do you want a new ice pack for it?” he shakes his head no, still a little solemn. “No, it doesn't hurt bad I promise.”

I gently ruffle his hair and start cleaning up the cookie mess. “Okay, if it does you let me know, and we'll see what we can do. Okay?” He nods again, sliding off his chair and heading to his bedroom.

I sigh and grab their bags, pulling out the dirty clothes and equipment. I don't fully believe his story, but I don't want to be overbearing either. Boys play hard, and it's not the first time he's come home bruised up.

I chew my bottom lip in worry; maybe I'm just overthinking things. I get their things thrown in the wash, and bags hung up before heading to the bathroom, where I see Carter already stripped stark naked, trying to fill the tub. I laugh and begin our nightly bath routine.