“Great minds think alike. Have you spoken to Aaron?”
I sigh, they know what went down. Ethan told them a versionthat was exaggerated, but made Parker look like a damn superhero. I told them the slightly more realistic version.
“No. There’s nothing left to say,” I say firmly. “He made it clear how he feels about me, and where I want to be.”
“I’m glad you know your worth.”
“Asshole Aaron!”Jerry Lee squawks.
“Well, we all know how Jerry Lee felt about him,” I joke.
“The bird is smart,” my dad says, and it’s as close as I’ll get him to admit that he didn’t like Aaron.
I stand up. “Alright, well, I’m glad we did this. I’m going to get a dog, so I’ll see you later.”
“Hold on, whoa, what? In my house? You didn’t think to ask your mom and me about it first?”
“Nope, like you said, I’m your favorite daughter.” I wrap my arms around him in an awkward hug because he’s still sitting in his recliner. “Plus, you both love animals.”
“Does that mean you’ll be finding your own place soon or…” His voice trails off.
I have been thinking about it, especially since it looks like I’m definitely staying. “Yeah, I will be.”
He nods. “Lily bug?”
“Hm?”
“I’m glad you’re back.”
“Love ya, dad.”
“Love ya too, kiddo.”
CHAPTER 18
Parker
I remembera time when we were maybe around ten years old, and I wanted to get Lily flowers. She’s always reminded me of the spring days when everything starts to bloom. So colorful and bright. I wanted to get her something that reminded me of her. My best friend that brings a smile to my face every day.
“Are Lilies your favorite flower?” I ask while we ride our bikes next to each other.
“No, why would they be?”
“Because it’s your name.”
“Yeah, but I like tewlips.”
“What?” I chuckle.
“Tewlips.”
“Why are you saying it like that?”
“Like what? Tewlips?”
“It’s tulip.”
“Well, I like saying it like tewlips.” She exaggerates the sound and I laugh along with her.