Page 20 of A Simple Regret

Shit, that reminds me, I need to text my dad about Theo.

I quickly pull out my phone, so I don’t forget again, and fire off a message.

Me

My car wouldn’t start this morning and I had to get a lift. Can you pick up Theo when you get off work?

I slip my phone back in my pocket and finish tidying up, making sure my combs are submerged in the sanitizing solution. Just as I get ready to head for the back room to start a load of towels, my phone chimes in my pocket.

Dad

Yes, of course. Where can I get his car seat?

Oh, crap! His seat is still in Camden’s truck.

Me

Shit, I left it in Camden’s truck.

Dad

Camden’s truck?

Me

Yes, he generously gave me a lift this morning, including dropping Theo off at daycare. He was leaving for work, so it was easier to jump in with him and not have to bother you and ask you to leave work.

I have diarrhea of the mouth, but I can’t seem to stop typing. It’s like I’m trying to convince him it was nothing more than a neighbor helping another neighbor, and honestly, I’m not sure why I keep typing. Dad knows Camden isn’t my biggest fan, and I’m sure he understands him offering me a ride was a big step for him.

Me

Is there any way you can stop by his work and pick it up? I know I’m asking a lot, but I don’t have Camden’s number to text him.

Me

You know what, I’ll walk down there during my lunch and grab it. Then you don’t have to make extra trips. I don’t know why I didn’t just suggest that the first time. You’ll still have to make extra stops, but at least it’s only here.

I’m breathing a little harder than I should be, a touch of panic and anxiety gripping my chest. This is not a big deal though, I keep reminding myself. Yes, it’s a bit of an inconvenience, but it’s not the end of the world. If anything, I should go purchase a second seat for Dad. This way, if something like this happens again, or if I have a last-minute client or one that takes longer than anticipated, Dad doesn’t have to run all over town to be able to pick up my son.

Dad

It’s no problem, honey. I’ll stop by and grab the seat from Cam when I get off work and go get my buddy. We can hang out until you’re done with work, and then I’ll come back and grab you. No need for you to walk down to the shop and carry it back. It’s supposed to snow more this afternoon.

Tears fill my eyes at how quickly he adjusts to the change in his schedule. He’s always been so willing to help, and that’s only grown now that I have Theo. The fact we went almost seven years with little contact still guts me. Why I listened to my mom all those years ago will always be something I regret.

Leaving will always be my biggest regret.

But I was young and dumb and thought she knew best.

Turns out, I was wrong…

Me

Thank you, Dad.

Dad

Of course, Maren. Love you.