be asleep.
“No, no. You didn’t wake me. I was just concentrating on work, that’s all.” He yawns.
“Must be riveting stuff,” I tease, gaining a smirk from Val’s old man.
“What do you want, Quaid? Dinner isn’t for a few more hours. Or are you dropping over for lunch? I thought you were hanging out at Logan's today,” he says confused, looking over my shoulder to Logan’s place.
“No, I’m all good,” I hush, looking down at my feet so he doesn’t see the flush of crimson on my cheeks.
Since the day Val and her dad moved to our street, I’ve basically had all my meals here. My parents haven’t even noticed that there haven’t been any delivery charges on their credit card, or if they did, they sure as hell haven’t said anything to me. But then again, the only communication we have with one another are a few single sentence texts every couple of days. If I had any shame in me whatsoever, I wouldn't come over so often, but I like the family atmosphere of this house. Most of all, I love how both Val and Mr. E make me feel like I’m part of the family. For a kid like me, whose own parents don’t give a fuck, having someone that does is addicting.
“You sure, kid? I can make a quick grilled cheese if you want it?”
“No. That’s not why I dropped by.”
“Oh? Then why did you?” he says leaning against the door, a curious sparkle to his golden eyes. They look just like Val’s, and every time I look at them, a sense of peace washes over me.
“I wanted to ask you a question, Mr. E. Has Val ever gone trick or treating?”
The light that shines in his hazel orbs dim somewhat, sadness starting to coat his whole face.
“No, not really. Back in Detroit, it just wasn’t something she could do, and if I’m honest, I haven’t even asked her if it’s something she wants to do either. I kind of dropped the ball on that one, haven’t I, kid?” he utters, running his fingers through his hair in frustration.
“It’s still not too late to ask her.”
He looks down at me, true kindness returning to his gaze.
“Let me guess. You want to take my baby trick or treating tonight, don’t you?” He smiles.
“Yes sir. I really do.” I nod with my back ramrod straight so he sees I’m serious.
“Okay, kid. I'll help you out. Be here for dinner with your costume on, after we have something to eat, you two can go.”
“You’re not coming with us?” I ask suspiciously, since Val’s dad isn’t necessarily the laid back kind.
Some might say he’s written the textbook on how to be a helicopter parent, but I know all his concern for Val comes from a good place. I mean, after all she’s been through with her health when she was a kid, it’s only normal he feels protective of her. I didn’t even know her when she went through all that stuff, and even I get wary anytime she looks tired or has a headache. It’s a helpless feeling. If I knew nothing of the man that is Eric Rossi, the love and devotion he shows Val on the daily is enough for me to respect the hell out of him.
“No, Quaid. I trust you to keep my girl safe,” he confesses with a wink, making my chest burst with pride. “Just stick to the neighborhood, keep your phones on you at all times, and you'll be okay.”
Excitement and happiness run through my veins, and before I even know what I’m doing, I jump and wrap my arms around him. He pats my back and returns the hug with the same force I’m embracing him, and suddenly, I have tears in my eyes.
When was the last time I was actually hugged? Touched and cared for?
I keep my hold on him, but when I feel the tears begin to trickle down my cheek, I break away to wipe them off before they sink into his shirt. Mr. E lowers himself just a bit to look me in the eye, placing both of his hands on my shoulders.
“What’s the matter, son?” he hushes with the same warmth and kindness to his tone that swims in his golden gaze.
“It’s nothing. Just allergies.” I try to play off, shaking my head so he doesn’t see I’m a wreck because of one hug. Unfortunately, by the way his brows pull together in concern, my excuse doesn’t