“Alright, enough drama. Later, I’m taking Ethan and Ms. Emily to see the show. Afterward, I’ll invite her over for dinner.”
“You go to the kitchen and cook a few of your specialties. When she arrives, you’ll apologize properly, and then this will be over.”
The moment Ethan heard Emily was coming for dinner, he forgot all about the tension. He tugged eagerly at Jason’s sleeve.
“Dad, let’s go! We’re going to be late!”
“Mom, don’t forget to make Cola glazed chicken wings! That’s Ms. Emily’s favorite!”
Jason let himself be pulled toward the door. Turning to the screen, he spoke in that gentle, affectionate tone again,
“Emily, shall we come pick you up first?”
Then, as if remembering something, he turned back and ordered me,
“Oh, and Emily doesn’t eat spicy food. Make sure you don’t put in any chili.”
On the screen, Emily’s face lit up with delight, tinged with a coy blush as she teased,
“Oh my, Ethan’s dad, that was from our college days. You still remember I can’t eat spicy food? You’re so thoughtful.”
Even through the screen, I could feel the pride and provocation radiating off her.
And with that, the last thread inside me finally snapped.