The Conversation That Changed the Atmosphere in Our House
A few weeks after Jake arrived, Tom came home on a Thursday evening looking unusually excited.
He poured himself a glass of water and loosened his tie.
“I have to go to Chicago next week,” he announced. “Four days, maybe five if the negotiations take longer than expected.”
I looked up from the kitchen island.
“Another development deal?”
“The biggest one I’ve handled this year.”
He sounded pleased with himself.
Then his expression changed.
“I was wondering if you could keep an eye on Jake while I’m gone. Make sure he’s getting everything ready for college. His mother keeps calling me about it, and frankly, I don’t have the time to deal with every little thing.”
I nodded.
“Of course. He’s family.”
Tom came around the island and kissed me.
“Thank you, sweetheart. Just make sure he doesn’t spend every night playing video games. He needs to take this next chapter seriously.”
