Page 38 of Clueless
“Thanks.We actually recorded those two today, the ones that went viral.”
She cleared her throat.“Was it about me?That song you wrote about your daughter?”
“Of course, it was about you.You’re the only kid I’ve got.”
“I wasn’t sure.I thought maybe you got some other woman knocked up and bailed.”
That barb landed right where she’d intended.In the middle of my chest.“I know you must hate me?—”
“Don’t put words in my mouth.”
“Okay, how do you feel?”I probably should have asked Grace to coach me before having this conversation, so I wouldn’t screw it up.But it was too late for that now.
“I feel like you’re an asshole for leaving my mama to take care of me all on her own.”
“I think I’m an asshole too, if it makes you feel any better.But I couldn’t do much to help y’all while I was in prison.When I got out, I got a job?—”
“And finally started paying child support.I know, but do you think that gives you a pass for all the years there wasn’t enough food to eat?”
My gut clenched when I thought of my baby girl going hungry, while I rotted away in a prison cell because I was too stupid and selfish to be a real man.“I’m so sorry, Quinn.I know words don’t make it better, but that’s all I’ve got.”
“Sounds like you’ll have a lot more than that soon.”
“What do you mean?”
“According to the Internet, you’re the next big thing in country music.”
I didn’t want to believe that was the only reason she’d agreed to talk to me, but I wouldn’t blame her if it were.“I don’t know about that.I guess we just have to wait and see how it all plays out.”
“But if you do make it big, you’ll finally do right by me?”
“Uh sure, but?—”
“Because I need wheels and I’ll be going to college in a couple of years.I don’t want to get stuck with student loans.”
“No, of course not.I’ll do whatever I can to help you.”
“It says online you’re single.Is that true?”
“Yeah, never been married.”
“That’s good, I guess.Your wife might have a problem with you trying to have a relationship with your bastard kid, huh?”
There was so much resentment and hatred in her voice, and I knew that I’d caused it.And I deserved it.“Please don’t call yourself that.”
“Why not?It’s true.”
“Quinn—”
“Look, I’ve gotta go.I’m meeting up with some friends and they’re gonna be here to pick me up any minute.”
“Okay, can I call you again sometime?”
“Maybe, but text first to make sure I can talk.”
“I will.”I hesitated before adding, “I know this won’t be easy, but?—”
“Hey, don’t expect too much, okay?”
