Page 64 of Over Time Advantage

“Of course I remember.” I clink my mug with hers. “Happy birthday. I love you.”

She pinches her lips together. “Thanks,” she says quietly.

Kennedy hasn’t uttered those three words to me since she was a little girl. I didn’t expect it in return, but, at Fallon’s suggestion, I want to be better at expressing myself to her. She should always know I love her, even if she can’t return the sentiment. Maybe one day.

I nod toward her living room. “Can we sit in there so I don’t die of claustrophobia?”

She rolls her eyes. “It’s not that bad, drama queen, but sure.”

We go to sit on her sofa as I hesitantly pull a small box from my pocket and hand it to her. “This is from your mom.”

She takes it, stands, and immediately throws it into a nearby waste basket without bothering to open it.

I sigh. “Won’t you give her a chance?”

She shakes her head. “Nope. Not happening.”

“Don’t you miss having a mother?”

She lifts an eyebrow. “Let’s be honest, Dad. We both know I never really had one. It’s probably why I’m so fucked up. It’s not easy growing up being second fiddle to the adults in your life. Feeling insignificant to the people who should make you feel the opposite doesn’t make for a healthy upbringing.”

I nod in understanding. “I’m sorry for my role in that. I’m trying to make up for it.”

“I know you are, and I’m trying my best, Dad. Ginny is a non-starter though. If you want to stay, I suggest not bringing her up again. It will never happen with her. Accept it and move on.”

I want to ask why she’s willing to let me in a little and not her mom, but I know not to push her right now. I shouldn’t look a gift horse in the mouth.

Deciding to switch topics, I ask, “Are you excited for Vegas?”

Vance told me Kennedy and some of her friends are joining the Camels on their annual trip there.

She smiles widely. “I’m so excited. I’ve never been. Layla has been planning it for months. I might use your gift certificate to grab a few more things I need.”

“Perfect.” I take a sip of my hot chocolate. “Are you…seeing anyone?” I ask in a pathetic attempt to engage in normal chitchat.

She snorts a laugh. “Do you really want to sit here and talk about my sex life, Dad?”

“Dating and sex aren’t the same.”

“Well, I’m only interested in sex, not dating. Care to continue this conversation?” she challenges.

My kid needs a mother so badly.

I shake my head. “No.”

“Right. What about you? Are you seeing anyone?”

“Would it…bother you if I dated?”

She scrunches her face in confusion. “Of course not. I assume you date. You’ve got a lot going for you, and you’re not a fucking priest. Why wouldn’t you date? Or sleep around. Or whatever floats your boat.”

“Watch your mouth,” I mumble. “Your brother doesn’t want me to date.”

“That’s ridiculous. You’re a grown, single man. It would be weirder if you didn’t.” She pinches her eyebrows together. “Have you not dated since your ex-ball and chain?”

I shake my head. “Not really.”

Her eyes widen. “No wonder you’re so uptight. You should get laid.”