Because (Seven Year Itch #4)(23)

When my wife called I wasn’t cheating on her, or even planning to. A bunch of the guys dared me to go out onto the dance floor and do the Cabbage Patch. It’s a funny dance from way back in the day that they swore I knew nothing about. I’ve never been one to deny a dare, so I did my best rendition. Little did I know, Zia the seductress picked up my phone I’d left on the bar next to my beer.

Until Shayla brought it up, I never even knew she’d called. Zia never mentioned it, probably because she was hoping to get me kicked out of my own house so I’d run right to her.

Even if Shay had told me to go to hell, that’s the last woman I’d sleep with. She was too easy. That bitch would spread her legs for a damn dog if she knew it could get her off. After what she pulled, she’s lucky I don’t have her written up for inappropriate contact at the office.

“Dad,” Ab catches my attention. “What if she doesn’t want to live here anymore?” I hate that she’s asking me this, because I can’t give the right answer.

I pat her leg. “You know what, we’re not going to let that happen. It’s up to you and I to convince her to come home. Do you think you could help me?” I realize I’m involving my daughter in a scheme, but it only seems fair. We both want the same thing, so why not work together to make it happen?

“Yes.”

“Good. Next time you see Mommy you act real sad. Tell her she has to come home. Make sure you cry a bit so she feels bad.”

“I can do that, because I am sad.”

“I know, Ab. I’m sad too.”

“Does Mom still love you?” She questions. It’s not out of line. She’s curious as to why Shay would leave. She’s probably thinking it’s something she did. I don’t want my daughter confused.

“I think she does.”

“Do you love her?”

“Yes. Of course I do.”

“Will you get a divorce?”

I kiss the top of my daughter’s head and try not to imagine what it would be like to get served with papers. “I hope not.”

“Me too.”

“Listen to me, Ab. No matter what happens, we’re always going to be a family. You, me and your mother. Nothing will ever change that.”

Aberdeen seems to be pleased. She nestles up next to me and closes her eyes. “Are you tired?” She’s had a long day.

“Yeah. Mom usually puts my clothes out for school and we pick out my shoes I’m going to wear. Can you help me?”

I know nothing about little girl’s fashion, but decide it can’t be too hard. “Come on. I’ll let you pick out whatever you want to wear tomorrow.”

“Whatever I want?”

I snicker. “Yeah, whatever your little heart desires.” Since I know her mother will pick her up after school I find it hilarious that our daughter will be dressed to impress or lack there of. I’m pissed she’s playing these head games with me, so it’s only natural to want to annoy the hell out of her in hopes she’ll want to come home and fix what I’ve messed up.

After we’ve laid out an outfit that will make her mother cringe, I get her tucked under her covers. She hands me her favorite book and watches as I begin to read it with her. After going through it twice she’s finally yawning. “I wish Mom was here.”

“I know, sweetie. Me too. Mommy needs some time to herself. You’ll see her tomorrow. Try to get some sleep.”

“Can you stay with me until I fall asleep?” She asks.

I watch her scoot over to make room for me. I kick off my boots and climb in next to her. She nestles her little frame against me and closes her eyes. For a while I sit there listening to her breathing. I can tell she’s fallen asleep, but I don’t dare move. I need this more than I want to admit. She’s my little girl, my reason for everything I have. The thought of her being hurt breaks me apart. I’m hurt and angry, so I pull out my phone and start sending text messages to Shay. She needs to know this isn’t okay with me.

I hate this. You should be here with us. Ab’s been crying all night. She thinks we’re getting a divorce. Is this what you want? Is this how it’s going to be? – Bran



I wait to see if she’ll open the message or ignore it. She’s stubborn, and I’m not sure pushing her buttons is the right move, though I can’t exactly help myself. Her response only makes it harder to digest.



I didn’t set out to hurt my family, if that’s what your asking. You said you would give me time. I’m doing this to make things better. We both knew she’d be sad. It’s the first night. We’ll get on a good schedule and it be easier for her. – Shay



I read it three times. Maybe it’s just me, but I get the feeling she might be considering divorce, even though she’s not admitting it. She’s actually thought about this enough where she wants to make a schedule for our child. I’m getting emotional and it’s pissing me off.



Please come home. – Bran



She responds quickly this time.



No. Please don’t ask me again. I’m turning off my phone. If there is some kind of medical emergency call the house number. If not, I’ll talk to you tomorrow morning. I’ll call before she gets on the bus. – Shay