“I know
you’re sad. I’m sad too.”
Then he added,
“I just don’t want to spend the rest of my time being watched.”
I placed my phone facedown on the couch.
Ethan noticed.
For a moment, he simply looked at me.
Then he smiled.
Chris squeezed his hand.
“You’re right, buddy. I’ve been watching the clock instead of enjoying the game.”
Ethan brightened.
“So you’re admitting I’m right?”
Chris raised an eyebrow.
“Absolutely not.”
Ethan laughed.
“Too late! You basically said it!”
For the first time in months, the three of us laughed together without fear interrupting the moment.
Someone knocked on the door.
Chris opened it.
Leo stood in the hallway.
For several seconds, neither man spoke.
Then Chris asked,
“How’s your son?”
Leo looked surprised.
“Home,” he answered. “Driving his mother crazy. He keeps leaving his shoes in the hallway.”
