Page 116 of Letters to Molly (Maysen Jar 2)

Molly laughed. “That’s it. What were you expecting?”

“I don’t know. I think I like tearing stuff out better than planting.”

I clapped him on the shoulder. “The next time I need an extra hand on a demolition job, you’re my guy.”

“Yes.” He fist-pumped. “Mom, can I go to the park?”

“As long as your sister goes too.”

Max’s eyes snapped to Kali. “Pleeease come with me.”

“Sure.” She smiled and stood, brushing dirt off her bare knees.

Molly tapped the watch on her wrist. “Don’t stay too long. It’s almost dinnertime.”

“Okay, Mom.” Kali nodded before she and Max took off for the gate in the fence.

“Hold up,” I called, pushing off the ground. Then I caught up to them before they disappeared down the neighborhood trail system that led to a playground. “I’m heading home soon.”

“Oh.” Max’s frame slumped. Kali wouldn’t make eye contact with me.

“How about a hug?”

They both rushed me, latching their arms around my waist like they were drowning. I put a hand on each of their heads. “Love you, guys.”

“Love you, Dad,” Kali whispered.

Max just hugged me tighter.

Behind us, Molly stood with her arms snaked around her waist and her gaze pointed anywhere but at us.

We’d talked last night about how this would go. Molly didn’t want to make a big deal about it. She said we’d treat it like any normal day. I wanted to work in the yard. She needed to do some house cleaning. Then when the day was over, I’d go home.

Normal. Routine. Miserable.

“See you guys in a couple days.”

Max nodded against my hip.

Kali pulled away and ducked her head as she swiped at her eyes. “Come on, Max.”

He squeezed me one last time then let go and bolted for the fence.

I watched as they sprinted down the path, their tennis shoes pounding on the packed gravel as they ran. It was a punishing run, like they were both taking their frustration with their parents out on the gravel.

I waited until they were out of sight, then I turned and walked toward the house.

Molly met me on the way and I held the patio door open for her to go inside. The house smelled of bleach and lemon. My cleaning service used the same products as Molly, per my request, but they didn’t smell the same.

This smelled like home.

“Can I help you pack?” she asked, toying with the hair ties on her wrist. Today’s were coral and yellow. Neither went with her outfit, but that was what I loved about them. They were always bright.

“No, I’m good. I just need to clear out the stuff from the bathroom and I’ll be set.”

She nodded toward the kitchen. “I’ll just finish in there. Say good-bye before you go?”

“I will.” I went to the guest bathroom and packed up my leather toiletry case. The sound o