Part Three- Series Masterlist
Series Storyline: You and Joel concoct a plan to get his ex girlfriend, Tess back into his arms. The plan works, too well, but as time goes on, wires get crossed, words get exchanged feelings get caught…As the beginning of the end starts, Joel slowly starts to wonder if Tess is who he should be with.
Chapter Summary: It’s Joel’s birthday. You’ve planned the day, you’ve planned the dinner-which brings an unwanted guest. The cracks in your plan start to crumble when your feelings get hurt, officially starting-the beginning of the end.
Warnings/tags: Swearing. Alcohol/weed consumption. Joel’s abit of an ass. Reader goes all out for Joel (it’s too cute). Mention of deceased parent. Reader has a few nicknames. Some dude called FrankieM makes an appearance as the hot neighbour-gets misnamed. Tess is -a vibe. Game!ellie. Game!tommy. Game!Maria. Light banter, tiny bit of white bashing? :/ Hope it’s not confusing with the back and forth conversations, let me know incase I need to edit it, Thanks x
The sound of party poppers and yells wake Joel up from his slumber. “Happy Birthday OldMan!!!” Above him are you and Tommy-big grins-party hats and crap novelty sunglasses. And “Huh?” is all he can get out.
“Happy Birthdaaaay!” You jump on the bed and Tommy follows suit, even prancing his legs up like a little girl. “Fuckin hell, fifty! Gettin fuckin old.” He slapped Joel’s arm, annoying the already grumpy birthday boy, honestly he must go to sleep grumpy. “Cmon!” You shout at him, “get up, get dressed-breakfasts nearly done. I went like-full on housewife level with this breakfast I tell ya.” You say it so proudly, and so you fucking should. Things haven’t been great since the “celebratory” night at the bar, you and Joel hardly saw each other-him working longer hours and you being a PA and volunteer -so you wanted to make an effort. “Okay, so I’m gonna go pick up your dad in an hour, he’s so excited to hang out, so cmon, got a schedule here.”
Joel runs a hand down his face, “Christ, let me wake up properly, will yas. What time is it?”
“Tiiiiime you got up birthday boy-okay it’s 8:30, get ya old bones moving, I’m gonna make your day soooo special it’ll make you sickk.” You and Tommy get off the bed to leave, not before you both let off one last popper towards Joel, who basically growls at you two. “For he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s a jolly good fellow, for he’s -.” Tommy wrapped his arm around your shoulder and you both left singing at the top of your lungs and you both knew behind that door, the birthday boys smiling…obviously thinking you’re both fucking nuts. He finally crawled out of bed, did his business, got dressed and headed downstairs-dread in his stomach rather than hunger.
You weren’t joking about his breakfast-about making his day special. Everything, from the scrambled eggs to the pancakes to the grapefruits had a candle placed on it, the downstairs, not just the kitchen-was fully decorated with balloons, banners, streamers-even in the bathroom, and you sneakily put up a few pictures of Joel as a baby and some as a teenager all over the place. Joel was touched but he thought it was unnecessary, he hated attention especially on his birthday but for you-and this plan it seems he’ll put on a party hat and devour his massive breakfast.
“No no birthday boy, the green one is for you.” You hover the pointy hat over his head, green with Dino fossils on it. “Here ya go, Bone Daddy.” He gives a look of warning as you plonk the hat on his head and wrap the elastic band under his chin.
“Sorry” you said low with your big doe eyes, giving him a kiss on the cheek. “There-handsome as ever.” Ha. He blushed, pulling his humble little smile. Even though you two weren’t great right now, you acted like a couple in front your child-Tommy. “Jesus-.” His eyes are scanning everything.
You go to stand at the other end of the table facing Joel with a hungry Tommy to your right. “Okay so left to right-,” you direct your hands like an air stewardess, “is starters-then main-then dessert. And then I’m thinking a big batch of coffee.”
The two brothers look at each other then back at the massive spread, “it’s a damn three course breakfast” Tommy pointing out the obvious.
“Well, yeah. Look!-” You squeaked. “The grapefruits like the starter, the skin is its own little bowl so that’s the soup. I put the choc chips in the shape of fifty aaaaand I did try to do a picture of the birthday boy but ya know, chocolate melts, so I did a crappy guitar instead.” Joel looks at the disfigured pancakes, that looked fuckin delicious and suddenly became overwhelmed-too much care for him, didn’t feel right, so for something to do and sticking to your plan, he grabs half a grapefruit, “so this is the starter.” He holds it up like it’s evidence and with a little nod from you, he shoves it in his mouth, taking a big bite, ripping it away like a feral fuckin caveman, its juice just dripping into his beard.
“Fuckin hell, Joel, you a caveman-use a spoon.” Tommy whined. You stood there, mouth open, eyes wide.
“Mm-juicy.” He said under his breath but loud enough for you to hear.
You sit down-a little giddy or..whatever this was, grabbing a spoon and start eating your half of grapefruit. As you go to take a spoonful Joel lifts up a raspberry, pinching it gentle between his finger and thumb and you can’t deny that your nipples tingled, “mmm bet these are tasty-they look it.” Looking you dead in the eye. What the fuck was this? You cock up a brow- so serious, with your spoon still floating near your mouth.
Tommy pinched his brows looking confused at his brother, “you plan on makin out with that thing. Just eat it. We don’t need food porno.” He picks up a piece of smoked bacon, and holds it up talking to you, “hey-I bet this is-Smokeeeeey.” He says it so serious and sultry, you snort. Joel scoffs then pops the raspberry in his mouth, “just saying how nice they look and I bet they’re tasty- I was right.”
Okay this is weird. You shift in your seat, settling with a cough to start a new topic. “Okay. So I’ll go get your pops, take him-wherever we need to go and you guys are going, work?”
Tommy answers with a mouthful, “yeah just gotta see some materials that’s come in and sign it off. Won’t be long, an hour-two?”
You work out something in your head, then nod with approval, “okay, cool. Papa Miller and myself should get back abouuuuuut two, then I gotta start the food-I am so excited about this dinner, I’m drooling.”
Tommy wipes his mouth with the fossil patterned napkin, “I can’t believe you want Mexican food, thought you would have gone for a steak dinner.” You and Joel exchanged looks-Joel’s a smirk and you just slump. Tommy notices, “what?”
Taking a sip of your tea and sighing with such defeat, “I can’t cook steaks.”
“Whoa-what? You my live in Texas and you can’t cook a damn steak?”
Joel sniggers taking a sip of orange juice. “Told ya not to tell anyone.”
You huff, pouting like a brat. “I can’t help it, it always ends up rubbery. I’ll get there one day.”
“And I’m Elvis Presley.” A low voice from the opposite end grabs your attention.
Eyes wide, your brows raised high, “you want me to cook you a fuckin steak? I’ll do it-fuck the Mexican I’ll burn the house down juuust to spite you, Miller.” You lean back in your chair, rockin back and forth with such a daring face. He raises his hands up in surrender, “ok I take it back.”
“Good-,” resuming your normal posture. “So, you guys are at work for abit, then I’ll come back and start slicin and dicin. And final head count iiiiiis, six?” Joel nods.
“Who’s the six?” Tommy asks trying to work it out counting on his fingers.
“Me, birthday boy here-you, your papa, Maria-,” a flick of recognition from Tommy “and Ellie. Oh my god, I can’t wait for you to see Ellies gift, Joel-it’s hilarious.”
“She’s the young girl who I’m being a “Big Sister” to. Down the community centre where your dad goes, well I met her there-she’s awesome. Mouth like a sailor-I like her.”
“And why is she coming here?” Tommy asks, you clearly didn’t really answer his question.
“Well she’s been here a few times, and she fucking. Loves. Joel. Not like a crush but like-well all girls go for the grumpy bastards. It’s fun to annoy them with all our girly antics but Ellie, pfff, whoooole other level-she puts me to shame.”
“She’s annoyin” said the birthday grouch at the end of the table. “Always callin me old, grumpy, tellin stupid jokes-she’s you only younger.” He looks in your direction.
“So she’s gonna grow up-fine then?” Tommy jokes, biting into his bacon.
“She’s gonna grow up perfect” you correct him and skipping passed the fact that Joel called you annoying. Pfft. “So are you and Maria coming together or-.”
“Gonna pick her up like the gentleman I am.”
“Awww is someone smitten?” You tease.
“Smitten, I love her-she’s amazing. Whips my ass into shape.”
“Good. You’re so flaky, you need someone like her.” Maria worked in a lawyers office, you weren’t sure what she does there. “Yeah-I like the sound of her.” You state it out, like a final verdict.
“Yeah she’s great.” He says it mainly to himself, it’s so cute.
.. “so-,” Tommy cleared his throat, “this is the week huh? Honeymoon stage is over, seven week itch an all that?”
Tommy was the only one who knew of this-plan, he was concerned about you after that night in the bar, so you told him and said that your feelings weren’t really hurt…. You knew it was a mistake but there’s something about Tommy that’s just so pure and-annoyingly sweet with good morals so you both agreed he should know and if he thinks this is a bad idea. It probably is. But what can we do now?
“Yup. The beginning of end, ain’t that right Joel?”
“Well sorry to say it, but-this ain’t gonna end well, kiddos.”
You and Joel hold each others gaze, the moment stretching quietly between the two of you until Tommy clears his throat again. “Just… be careful, okay. Don’t want no one getting upset or hurt. I like yas.”
The two of you can’t help but smile at Tommy’s small confession. “We’ll be fine,” you say gently, glancing at Joel. “Right?” Joel gives a short nod. “Yeah. We will.”
Tommy snorts, shaking his head. “Gotta say, watchin’ you play house these past weeks? Entertainin, to say the least. And I’ll tell ya this, when you two ‘break up,’ the guys at the site are gonna be real sad. They fuckin adore you.” Heat creeps up your neck, your cheeks burn a little. “I can always come and visit, I love being adored.” You say it flicking your hand under your hair, giving it a slick whoosh, just insinuating how fabulous you are.
“You though -,” Tommy points his bacon in your direction, “deserve a fuckin Oscar. If it weren’t for you flirtin with that old guy, we wouldn’t have been able to land that contract.”
“Hey! I wasn’t flirting…and actually, it’s that dress, who deserves an Oscar. Plumping me up in all the right places and you’re welcome-glad I could help out. Even managed to make them extend the contract so-ka chiiiiing.”
The three of you go to town on the bacon and eggs, waffles and finally the chocolate-chip pancakes, strawberries. You rub your stomach and sigh. “I hate to admit it, but I don’t think I can finish this.”
Both brothers look at you like you’ve just committed a crime. “Nope,” Joel says flatly.
Tommy nods along. “You’re making us eat ours-now you gotta finish yours.” With a defeated groan, you take another bite, with a sad, little look on your face, pleading to them but they don’t give a shit. “Put ya pancake where ya mouth is, darlin.”
“Fuckin assholes” you mumble low through a bite of food.
The three of you ended up crashing on the couch, food coma hitting hard-you had to unbutton your pants. “Oh my god I really wanna nap but I gotta goooo ooo-why the hell did I sit down?.” You whine out. You count to three and somehow got yourself up, your belly spilling out of your pants. “God look at that.” You pat your belly. “I lookin fucking pregnant.”
“Oh my god you do as well no offence.” Tommy said fast. “Suits ya.” You stand there rubbing ya belly, doing that back stretch all pregnant woman do, “whadda think, Joel-shall I go Tess our good news?” Your cell phone rings before Joel can answer, he gives you a look over, it did suit ya. “Yellow?-Hiya Papa! I’m just getting myself ready then I’ll be over -remember I have a red car and I’ll do my little knock-okay? See you soon-bye” Joel and Tommy pinch their brows as you hang up, “you guys got a secret knock?” You stare at your phone with a worried look. Tommy stands, “hey what’s up?” placing a hand on your shoulder, giving you a little shake to bring you back, “nothin, it’s just, hes acting different lately-like he’s forgetting stuff-im just a little bit worried.”
“Why didn’t you tell us, sweetheart.” Tommy asks concerned, they don’t like hearing bad stuff about their dad, a man of his age an all that. “I just thought maybe he was having an off day-we all have’em. I went over, knocked for ages, called out to him and he didn’t answer, so I called him up and when he answered the phone, he was- scared. He said a red car’s stalking him and there’s someone at the door banging and shouting, when I told him it was me-he obviously opened the door, but he looked so embarrassed. It’s why we have the knock now.”
“Okay-we’ll keep an eye on him and if he acts worse, we’ll take him the doctors.” You and Joel agree. “I best go get ready-okay you two go to work, tell the fellas I said hi and I’ll see you guys later.” They both watch as you head upstairs, with a slump in your shoulders, “should we talk to the oldman about this?” Joel shook his head. “Nah let’s leave it for now.”
You text Joel apologising for dropping a bomb on his birthday, he replied with a “x”, his way of saying, don’t be silly-it’s fine. He was driving with Tommy, who after fiddling with the radio, spots Joel’s watch. “Hey finally got that thing fix huh?” He takes his hand off the wheel to give it a look, “er yeah, she got it fixed for me, birthday gift.” Tommy dons a smug little face, “ah that was nice of her-real sentimental-thought she was giving you that daft record for your birthday, oh shit yeah-that’s just for show. Wonder if tess will get ya somethin?” Joel stayed silent, it wasn’t something he didn’t need to think about-there was work, you, Tess, this whole fuckin charade and now his Dad. “We just need this week over with so we can have this dinner then the-party on Saturday and then the much needed time off work.” Tommy agrees and plays with the radio again, “she going back to her place after all this is over?” Joel stares down at his watch, giving Tommy a small nod, “yeah suppose so-.” Tommy sits back looking at his brother, “hope so-I don’t want her to move.” … “yeah, me neither.”
When they got to the work site, the guys cheered for their big boss, singing “For he’s a jolly good fellow”, he gave a small little thanks and then in his classic grumpy way, told them to get back to work. They kept telling Joel that he didn’t need to come in, that everything was fine-practically shoving him back into his truck, “go have a good day, boss-we got things covered.” Tommy told Joel why argue so they left, little giddy waves from the guys as they drove off. “They seem suspicious to you?” Tommy just shrugs, “they’re a crazy bunch of guys, Joel-only god knows whats up with them.”
You and Jospeh got back home right on time, he said he wanted a lie down-all that walking made his hip ache. “Okay well I’ll check on you in a little while , but now I’ve gotta start everything for the dinner. You’ll be okay?” He does a stretch, revealing his little belly bulge, “yeah, just need to catch a few winks and I’ll be right as rain, baby girl.” You told him he could have either the “spare room” really yours or Joel’s…he wanted yours. “I like your bed.” He said it so shyly.
For the dinner, you were starting with nachos, bloody gorgeous, sprinkles of cumin and paprika. The beef for the was sizzling away in the pan, you couldn’t wait to devour all those tacos! And for dessert, a birthday cake and flan, something you picked up from Friends, you watched the one where it’s Rachel’s birthday and Monica made her a flan-a traditional Mexican custard dessert.. apparently, so why not?
The birthday boy and his partner in crime got home an hour after you, practically floating through the air at the smell of the food. “What’s that smell?” Tommy basically asks through his nostrils. “Our dinner, baby boy! I’ve been good, no sampling or anything-so-it’s gonna be a bit of a gamble-oh your dad’s upstairs in my room, poor guy was tired.”
Joel comes to stand by you, “how was he?” You nod enthusiastically, “yeah yeah, good. Seemed fine-like himself.” The two brothers seem pleased with your answer. “Right-can you guys like go hammer somethin, I need to focus on the food and yer distracting me.” In unison they both put up their hands in surrender. “I gotta go home anyway-shower and crap… literally. Ha!” He laughs to himself. At least someone finds him funny. “Yeah and I gotta go help out Eugene with something real quick, I’ll be back in few.”
You shoo them away, “just go do what ya gotta do, just be back for five o’clock.” Joel grabs the doorknob and as he opens it, he’s shoved backwards-“what the-.” Ellie, just letting herself in. “Heeeey! Happy birthday yer old bastard.” Such a lovely girl. Joel can hear you laughing from the kitchen, “Mini yous here!-and you, don’t cause trouble.” He warns Ellie who of course brushes it off. “Just go get yer zimmerframe and toddle off grandpa.” She gentle pats Joel’s back, like he’s a little old man, “need help out the door, dino?”
“All right, knock it off.” You can feel his irritation through the walls. “Ellie! Leave him alone-he’s got stuff to do” he leaves with a huff gently motioning her to the kitchen. Ellie said she was coming over early to help you out which in her language means-I’m coming to help you sample everything. “Will you leave some for the rest of us!” You tell her off with a high pitch tone, adding a little slap to her hand.
“So, you really did go all out for the old bastard, huh? Look at this place-,” she steals a little scoop of beef that drips between her fingers. “Ah hot hot! .. Must really love him to do all this, eh?” You scrape off the chopped cilantro into the frying pan, “um-I like him a lot, Ellie-not there with the whole love thing yet.” According to Ellie, you and Joel were gonna last-gonna marry, have kids and live happily ever after-you ease his gruffness and he gives you a kick up the ass when needed. “Oh please!!!” She shrieked with insult in her tone, “you’re so smitten it’s sickening! And he’s just as bad-always staring at yer, laughing at your dumb stories, no offence but they’re not funny. He’s got it bad for you-I always se it, even if you don’t.”
You make yourself look busy, mixing the beef and the other ingredients together. He doesn’t stare does he?—And my stories are fucking hilarious-the cheeky little bitch. “Well I cant speak for Joel but me? I’m not there yet.”
At 5pm on the dot, Tommy arrived with Maria, she wore a pretty white blouse, skinny jeans and fuckin awesome boots. “Hey guys! We’re here!” He takes off her coat, ushering her in, “guys?!” They hear you and Ellie race down the hall grabbing at each other, “no-I wanna meet her first!” “Will you move-it’s my house!”
You both screech to a stop in front of them, fixing yourselves up, “hi Maria!” You both say. “I’m-.” You cover Ellie’s mouth, putting her in a gentle headlock, “Hi Maria, welcome! This one here is Ellie Smellie and I’m-.” She grabs your free hand, “of course I know who you are-Joel’s girl, heard all about you. Lovely to meet you guys-need any help?” You pink a little at the nickname, which makes Ellie pinch your side.
“Ow! .. Heard all about me have you?” You look to Tommy, who looks down. “Yeah he’s told everything about everything.” Your look to Tommy would spook a horse, you widen your eyes, like dickhead you told her, why? She grabs hold your hand again, “hey-let’s go check on that food-Tommy, you get everything ready for dinner. Cutlery, napkins-glasses, okay? Hop to it, boy” before the poor man even uttered a “yes ma’am” Maria linked arms with you, letting you lead the way.
Maria offered to finish making the nachos for you while you tend to the beef-that neeearly burnt. Ellie barges into the kitchen, “hey-miller out there asked where the napkin rings are?” You pinch your brows at her, “i don’t think we have anything like that. Ooo also, ask him to call Joel, he should be back by now.” She huffs and goes back to Tommy. There’s a stretch of silence, here it comes;
“So-this whole relationship plan was your idea, huh?.. Don’t be mad at Tommy for telling me, it was only the other day-he’s worried about you-both of you.”
You dish out the beef into a big bowl, sighing with such defeat and a little embarrassment. “I’m not mad at him, he needed someone to talk to-I get it. But-.” You turn to face her leaning against the counter, “-there’s nothing to worry about-it’s nearly done.. I can’t wait if I’m honest. This has been exhausting.”
She steals a chip from the bowl, “no tommys worried about-I don’t know, how maybe it’s become more and you two are in such denial about it. I mean what gives? Joels handsome-got his own company-got all his hair-.” You interrupt, “yeah but he’s also in love with Tess and wants -her.” You say so defeated as you turn to chop up tomatoes, anything to distract yourself.
“And what about you? What do you want?”
Showered and shaved, Papa Miller comes downstairs, looking so handsome, it was so cute. “Where’s the grub-I’m starving.” You tap his hand away that nearly nabbed a forkful of rice. “Sorry papa, gotta wait for the birthday boy. Tommy. Did you get through to him?” He’s caught scooping some guacamole onto a chip. “He didn’t answer. Just went through to his voicemail. I’ll go see if he’s still at eugenes place.” You nod, giving him a thanks when you hear-
“We’re here!” The small group of you were confused hearing Joel announce-“we’re here.” Tommys face softens-with pity maybe, as he’s the first to see who Joel was with. “Hope you don’t mind me crashing the party. Joel said I could come.” Tess announced. Crickets. “Oh, yeahsure-there should be enough for another person-it’s his birthday after all. Where’ve ya been, Joel.”
He peels his eyes away from Tess, to find everyone gawking at him, including a scowling Joseph. “Um finished up at eugenes, ran into Tess and here we are-sorry, didn’t mean to take so long.” He said it so flatly like you’re the one with the problem, which is wrong judging by all the scowls going on in the room-Tess completely oblivious or ignorant. You didn’t know if he acting or he was genuinely annoyed by the question. Ellie was not impressed with him right now.
“Well we’re all here now, let’s eat.” Everyone murmured as they took their seats, Joel at the end, you on one side-her on the other.
Good job you made a big batch of food, everyone went for a third helping apart from Queen bitch opposite you. There were jokes, stupid stories and Maria whispering “are you okay?” about fifty times. You weren’t okay though, you were pissed off. Was this part of the charade, is this where it starts to dissipate? Or was Joel just being a dick? But, you put on a big smile and play hostess. “Jeez, hope no one wanted fourths, look at all those empty plates-think I did good.”
“Too spicy for my taste, my tongues burning.” Crickets
You give her a little huff of a weak laugh, “well-if Joel would of told me you were coming and you didn’t like spicy food, then maaaybe, we wouldn’t be in this mess. So-blame Joel.”
“It does have a kick. Yeah my tongues on fire” Joel nudged her arm, then gave you a little wink. You scowled, oh you scowled hard and you did not care for this at all. “Well it’s how I always make them-and you wanted tacos so-.” Everyone can hear the irritation in your tone.
“-yeah cause you can’t cook steaks apparently.” Tess muttered it under her breath and every person heard it.
“Well if you’re having Mexican food and it hasn’t got a “kick”, then something’s very wrong, it’s not like our white people food-bland.” Maria’s tone was so bitchy-it was delicious. “I mean if you’re having Mexican ya should know it’s gonna be spicy and delicious, so-more fool you and your generic tongue.”
Tommy held her hand, giving a pleading look like, pleeeeease don’t get involved.
You stand from your chair, it screeches against the floor, “Joel, can I speak to you in the other room please?” He does a nervous chuckle, “how about we talk after the festivities, huh, baby?” He addresses the table, not one person reacted. “No, now.” As you walk off into the kitchen, leaving no room for argument, you hear the bitch still talking. “Just distract her with weed and you’ll be okay Joel.” Is it too late to go back in there and slap her?
You walk to the back door so people couldn’t hear, you stand there, opposite this dopey looking bunch of flesh, who has the audacity to look at you like you’re the one with the fucking problem.
You shrug with-disbelief? “What she doing here, Joel? I didn’t go through all this fucking effort to be humiliated by her-and you. What the hell is this?”
He raises his hands, “whoa whoa, she’s a friend remember? She’s meant to be a part of all this, to see it all.” You narrow your eyes, showing your irritation, which makes him roll his eyes and mutter, “Jesus.”
“No, don’t throw that in my face-I didn’t do all this for fucking show, Joel! You shouldn’t have invited her without telling me, you shouldn’t have invited her at all. This was so we could all be together, a little family thing remember?”
Then he does a face, that fucking face like he’s got one over on you, “what about Ellie? She’s not family, why’s she here, huh?” Who the fuck was this guy?! “Wow-that’s a low blow. That’s something that poisonous bitch would say.”
He shifts, pointing his finger at you, “dont talk about her like that, got it.”
You rub your temples, huffing out your breaths. “Ya know what, I’m gonna go back out there, serve the fucking cake then get high. Then you and Tess can have a bitch fest about me-fuck you, Joel.” You grab the cake from the fridge, smacking the door shut with your ass, you storm past him, maybe pushing him a little with your shoulder, made no fucking impact-the mans built like a house-but he grabs your arm, firm. “Let go of my fucking arm.” You warned-he didn’t move at first, “now.” His hazel eyes darken as his grip tightens.
You yank it away and walk back into the dining room, Joel can hear you announce yourself again, doing your perfected fake tone, “your hostess has returned, hope we all want some cake! It’s coffee sorry-birthday boys choice. And then er, the dinner plans have changed-” You cut up the cake into reasonable sized slices you thought-you were generous, “-after the cake and maybe some coffee, were just gonna hang out, do our own thing. Then we’ll come back to it.”
Everyone could see the hurt and disappointment in your face, “yeah we’ll see after our food comas, sweetheart.” Tommy was so sweet, he’s just what you needed at that moment. “Just don’t pass out, yeah?” You smile at him. Joel comes back into the room, walking behind you to take his seat, you shift turning away from him. “Well we can carry on, but she wants to be alone.” He adds. “No need to stop having fun cause of one sour puss.”
“Don’t speak for me, thanks. I’m a big girl.”
Then comes the sly little huff, Tess-oh was she gonna start on your size next? You felt so bad for everyone at the table. Joseph was staring at his Son with such disgust on his face. Tommy and Maria just keep holding hands, and Ellie, she was leaning back in her chair, so upset and a face to match. You pull her chair toward yours with a hard tug and scrape across the floor making her jump, “c’mon, this cake is from the best bakery in the world-it’ll convert you, even if it is coffee.” With a little nudge to her shoulder, you both dig your forks into the coffee sponge and the moment it touched your tongue-you melted, and Ellie was making weird noises that made the table laugh.
“Get a room, El.” Tommy joked. “Tommy! She’s 14!” You scorned him. “What you like?” You look over to Joseph who’s still giving his son daggers, you give him a little “Papa?-,” he looks at over, face softening, “yes, baby girl?” You hold up a little bit of cake on your fork, “we did good?”
“We did good, darlin” Joseph was giving you such an apologetic look, it broke your heart. “Hey actually, can I join you for your smoke, babygirl? Have a chat?” You gave a suspicious nod, “of course.” The two lovebirds were still chatting away, Joel glanced away every so often to see, the vibe maybe? But he carried on talking as everyone stood up to either pee, poop or crash on the couch, you went to your room with Ellie to make yourself a joint, not exactly responsible being a “big sister” and all but she promises not to tell anyone.
“I can’t believe the way they’re acting, what assholes. I mean, how could Joel treat you like that-talk to you like that? Not his biggest fan at the moment.” She picks up your grinder, giving it a smell, “that fucking stinks.” You both laugh, “it means it good stuff.” You state. “Hey-I was gonna ask you to come out with me while I had this-but is it ok if me and Joe talk first? Then I’ll come get you, and we’ll do something, yeah?” For a girl of 14, such understanding, “of course, whatever you need, sis.” Oh she’s so precious. “C’mere.” You open up your arms giving her the biggest hug, you think your little life is shit when hers is just-.
“Thanks, Little sister.” She squeezes you tighter, you’re sure you can hear sniffles. Blessssss. With a cough from her, the moments gone, you carry on making your smoke and she has a nose around your room, taking full advantage as she’s never been in here. “Oh my god, is that you as a baby?” You look up, “yeah, I was about eight, nine months old-that’s my grandmother holding me” She picks it up, closely inspecting it, “you’re so cute. God your eyes are gorgeous.”
“Yeah-what happened huh?” You joke, you’re still a cutie. “ “eyes bigger than a dinner plates” my dad would say.” Ellie knows of your family life, your mom lives in Santa Barbara, father died, one brother, Roman. “Why doesn’t your family visit?”
You lick along the cigarette paper, sealing it closed, “erm-I see my brother every so often, we have a good relationship. My mom she won’t come back, too many memories-and well, my daddy’s, ya know-,” you tuck the joint behind your ear, “come on let’s go back down, they’ve probably think we’ve ran away.” You stand, holding your hand out, “c’mon little sis.”
“Thought you guys ran away for a minute there.” Tommy says whilst shoving cake in his mouth. “Just having a talk. Where’s your pops?” Tommy points outside, “porch-he’s made you some tea.”
You nod and give Ellie’s arm a little squeeze, “won’t be long ok? There’s my ps5, my laptop is at your disposal. Catch up on PeaceMaker, and tell me what happens after Eagly attacked those soldiers.” With a delighted thumbs up, she toddles off, “can you keep an eye on her for me?” You ask Maria more than Tommy, he’ll probably just piss her off. “Yeah of course, go go.” She shoos you away, then goes back to giving Tommy some hugs and kisses. Barf.
Sweet Joseph was wrapped up in a blanket rocking on the porch swing, “Babygirl, come-sit.”he opens up the blanket, inviting you in, then cages you-it’s like being smothered by Joel.
“So what’s up, are you okay?” He hands over your tea, “yeah just wanted a little time with you alone and to tell you, I love you.”
You fight back a smile, “um-Joseph, I’m dating your Son-it’s a bit inappropriate dontcha think?” He gives a little side smile-that’s just like Joel’s. “No-you know what I mean” He says shyly. “You’re a good girl and I’m sorry about my son’s behaviour, I told you she’s a bad influence-she’s not a nice person-”
“-you’ve done so much for this family and he treats you like that?-” he carried on, “I’m so embarrassed.” You assured him that after everyone left that you and Joel were gonna sit down and talk, clear the air. He seemed a little relieved and gave your arm a rub. “Also, I’m a little embarrassed- I feel stupid askin.” You return the arm rub, “oh, Joseph, you can ask me everything.”
“Well, cause I love ya so much, darlin and you mean a lot to me , helped me these past weeks, I’d like-I’d like for you to call me, Dad.”
You stare with an open mouth. “Oh”
“Only if you want to of course. But it’ll make me happy.” Oh the manipulative little shit. “Aw I’d like that too-Dad.” He gives your cheek a kiss, and dons a beaming smile. “Always wanted a daughter-even if she does smoke that stuff-it’ll age ya.”
You give his shoulder a teasing nudge, “ah shut up-daaaaaad.” You both laugh out loud, “oh-funny shit, I’ll get Ellie-Tommys probably winding her up.”
Tess brought it upon herself to announce it was present time, she moved all the gifts to another table-why, you don’t know, sat Joel down and started handing him the gifts. “Hang on a sec, I’ll go get Dad.” Before you even think, you head out to go get the old man, leaving a stunned Tommy, Joel Maria and Tess-Ooo she didn’t like that. “Dad! Present time, cmon.” You hold open the door as he steps through, “thanks babygirl” and you link arms, whispering, “what did you get him?” He gives you a cheeky smile. “Oh god, I’m scared.” You both come to a halt to silence.. then Tommy gives you a shit eating grin, “dad? Am I suppose to call you sister now?” You tighten your linked arms, “yeah, Dad here wants me to call him Dad, ain’t that right, Dad?” He nods so proud.
“Well let’s carry on, huh? Let’s not take the shine away from the birthday boy, such a disappointing girlfriend.” Tess interrupted.
“Well I make the effort to know and love his family so-.” It got left in the air, “c’mon, Joel, open your presents, honey.” Joseph shoves you forward gently, “you should be standing with your man, babygirl-not a guest.” You stand beside Joel, you know he’s fucking hating this, Tess doesn’t seemed phased. “This is from your Dad” she hands him a thin, loose gift, “gotta be a shirt-what’s it say this time, Pops?” He rips open the paper and holds up a black t shirt that says “I don’t deserve the girl beside me” in white writing. “It’s to let everyone know you’re spoken for and that she’s way out of your league.” A few laughs from the others but a scowl from Queen bitch.
There was a beat of silence, that was filled with her shrill voice, “okay next.” He opened Tommys, a pair of socks with ‘leave me alone’ written on the bottom, he also treated him to a few bottles of Jack Daniels. Ellie’s present was an inflatable dinosaur costume, “ya know cause you’re an old bastard, a dino-.” You cover her mouth, “will you shush-told you her gift was funny.” You nudge Joels shoulder. Nextwas your gift, a thoughtless record that should make you look like a shit girlfriend, however-
“Aw wow, Hank Williams. Now that’s a good record-where dya get it?” Joseph asked, all excited, “love him, and Tommy does.” Ellie asks to have a look, “ohh this is that guy who sings like his balls havent dropped-he’s good.” Tess coughs over the murmurs, “mine next- here ya go, Joel.” He tears the paper, and pulls out-a wooden clock in the shape of a boat. He’s speechless but the ‘what the hell do I say’ type. Everyone’s the same. “Wow, it’s a-a boat-clock. Didn’t know you liked boats Joel.” You address it to the room, rather than him. “Of course he does-he’s been on one.” Tess defends herself, hands on hips. You honestly didn’t know what to say, your crappy record was actually better. “Well, think that’s all of them. Great presents everyone, I’ll make sure they get used-especially that dinosaur costume, that’s definitely the winner.”
“Definitely better than yours” Tess mutters. “Alright, bitch ya know what-,” your outburst made everyone jump then the room was silent, “-you crash our dinner, you’re rude to me-to everyone. You take over like you planned this whole goddamn thing and then you have the fucking audacity to continue to carry on putting me down? Get the fuck out, Tess.”
She huffs out the little defensive laugh she does when someone doesn’t take her shit. “Joel-you gonna let her talk to me like that?”
“Yeah, Joel-ya gonna let me?” Oh you were dyyying to hear what he had to say.
“Alright-,” Tommy starts, “I think-I think we need a breather. Tess, it’s best if you just go. Talk to him tomorrw. Sweetheart?” he takes hold of your hand, “c’mon, let’s go outside. I’ll keep ya company while you smoke-Maria-.” He tips his head to signal, ‘you’re coming with us’. You told Ellie to come with, holding out your hand to her, and Joseph wanted to go home so he sat outside with the rest of you, it says a lot when everyone would rather be in your company than the birthday boy’s. After a minutes, Tess and Joel exit the house, she struts down the path, heading back home, everyone watches but keep their mouths shut. “Cmon Pops, I’ll take ya home.” He offers.
“No-Tommys going to take me, you two need to talk, Son. Your behaviour was unacceptable. You talk it out, and sort it, ya hear me Boy? You goddamn grovel.” Joel tuts and heads back inside, slamming the door behind him. “Don’t worry, Dad, we’re gonna talk and sort it all out. Kiss and make up and all that” you gave him a sly wink. He was just like Joel, staring at you to see if he’s convinced, he seems to buy it. Tommy shoves Ellie a little, “Cmon Hells Ells I’ll take you home too.” She jokingly asked to see his drivers license, “someone as stupid as you can’t possibly be legal to drive.” But it was really to see his license picture. You have her a hug and said that’ll you see her soon, “bye sis.” “Bye little sis.” You watched as they drove off, dreading going into that damn house-God knows what he’s up to.
When you head inside you see his tall figure down the hallway, fists balled, huffing through his nose. Why the fuck is this man fucking angry?!
“What’s up with you, wanna fight me or something?” You gesture at his posture.
“What’s up with me, what the hell is up with you? Ya been in a mood all day and you talk to her like that.” His short breaths, make his chest puff out.
You could not believe what you were hearing. “Are you for fuckin real, Joel-she shouldn’t have been here! I did all of this, not her and she gets treated like a goddamn Queen?”
He runs his hands through his hair, clearly irritated, “I didn’t fuckin ask you to! You-you wanted to do all this, to add on to this whole fuckin charade!”
“No joel, I did this out of the goodness of my fuckin heart, not for show-not for this whole thing. I am your friend first remember?”
Joel dips his head forward, sighing loud.
“Oh I’m sorry if I’m boring or pissing you off with my caring for you, or my own fucking self respect.. fuck this, I’m leaving.” You stormed upstairs before he could get a word out, Joel heard you slamming draws, your footsteps loud, he could also hear you talking. “Are you sure? ..Yeah yeah just for tonight…. You’re the best Tommy…no no I’ll get an Uber …ok see you soon and thanks again.”
Oh what the fuck was this? Fucking stubborn woman, Joel thought. He tried to wait patiently for you, pacing back and forth in the kitchen but you were taking forever packing your-he’s assuming an over night bag-so he barged upstairs, huffing taking two steps at a time. He could hear you clattering bottles in the bathroom, probably packing your twenty bottles of skincare that you over paid for but most certainly do not need. He sits on your bed and shouts towards the bathroom.
“What’s all this?,” he makes himself sound annoyed trying to cover the fact that he’s now slightly panicking. “-Where ya goin?”
The bathroom door swung open, and yes in your hands, resting against your chest were six bottles of skincare. “I’m staying the night at Tommys, I’ll be back in the morning-he said he’ll drop me off when he heads to work so-.”
Joel rolls his eyes accompanied with an exaggerated sign. “What? Why?”
“You seriously asking me that?” Shaking your head with such disbelief. “Joel, you-really hurt my feelings, after everything I did for you today. It wasn’t for show, it was for you, cause I care about you and I wanted you to be fuckin spoiled cause ya fuckin deserve it-,” you clench your fist tight, “but ya what, get Tess to do all that shit for you.” Joel balls his fist, digging them into the mattress as he tries to think of something to say, panicking a little more.
“So where ya gonna put it?” You ask so-bitchy and you don’t care, resting a hand on your hip.
He thinks for a second not putting it together.
“The clock? Your brand new “something you dont fuckin need or even like” clock from her, the Bitch of the street? Who put SO much thought into it” you didn’t care how bitter your words sounded, you had every fucking right. That damn woman just gave no thought, didn’t gave a shit, fuckin crashes the dinner and gets treated by him as the fuckin Woman of the year. Oh he can go fuck a cow.
You stand in front of him, bag on your shoulder, “Happy birthday, Joel.”
He goes to say something as you storm towards the door, “I’ll tell you one thing-,” you stop, hand resting on the doorknob, “at least this is all starting to look real-no acting required now, huh?” You close your own bedroom door behind you, hoping to god he doesn’t follow cause fuck, your vision is blurred from the tears that are threatening to fall. Joel doesn’t move, he hears the front door open and close and the sound of a car driving off. He didn’t go back downstairs, just be going back to an aftermath of hurtful fucking words and actions. He left your room and walked across the hall to his, crashing on to the bed, staring at the ceiling-not bothering to undress himself. His phone dings, he fishes it out his pocket squinting at the screen-you were right, he does need glasses-it’s from Tess;
-Birthday boy! I hope you’re ok. Sorry your day got ruined, I can’t believe she blew up like that. Want me to come back? xo
Joel goes to type yes, then stops, his stomach turns. For some reason it feels wrong but isn’t this the whole point? Tess comes crawling back and he lives happily ever after? He turns off his phone and throws it to the floor, only to sigh and pick it back up. He knows you won’t call or text but he can see how you are through Tommy.
-Tommy, Look after her for me, will ya?
He lowers the phone to his chest and lets his eyes fall shut. He doesn’t expect sleep to come. The phone dings again, he quickly lifts it. Tess.
-Hey, you ignoring me? Well you’ve missed your chance big boy, I’m in bed, all naked. Going to get some beauty sleep, can I see you tomorrow? xo
He doesn’t reply and after a few slow blinks, sleep claims him.
Joel came downstairs the next day to the aftermath of his birthday. The balloons deflated, banners half hanging, food still on the table, the living room a mess. Not being able to function a clean up, he grabbed his keys by the door and went to work, leaving the echoes of last night behind. You hadn’t text , and neither had Tommy.
You asked Tommy to drop you off at his dads, you wanted to see how the old man was doing after yesterday. “I can use my break to take you back to Joel’s if you want?” You lean over to give him a kiss on the cheek, “no it’s ok, thanks again for last night, Tommy-didn’t want to put you in the middle but I just didn’t-,” he grabs hold of your hand and kisses your knuckles, “don’t mention it, sweetheart.” You both linger for a few seconds, “well best go see ya old man. Have a good day, ok.” “You too sweetheart.” He tapped the steering wheel a few times, giving you his heartbreaking smile, then drove off. You stood in the driveway, shook off any bad vibes after last night and knocked a few times on Papa Millers door.
Joel arrived at the construction site, parked in his usual spot, a few “heys” from the other guys who were smiling unusually wide today. “What’s up with yas-what ya smiling at?” Taking how pissed off he looked the workers turned and murmured amongst themselves. Joel wasn’t in the mood. As he headed up the ramp to his office, Tommys truck screeches into the site.
“Mornin grumpy-ass. How we feeling today?” He shouts from the window. He hops out, work belt resting on his shoulder. “She’s alright before you ask, just dropped her off at dads-she’s wanted to see him.” Joel gives an understanding nod.
As Tommy heads up the ramp joining his brother, “are you ready to feel like an absolute prick?” He asks as he unlocks the office.
“What?” Joel asks exasperated, slumping his shoulders.
“Cmon on.” Tommy opens the door wide and inside, Joel’s office had been decked out with birthday decorations but this time with cowboys on everything-even got him some toy guns with foam bullets so they could have a round on the work site. No wonder the guys were beaming. And yes, Joel felt like an absolute prick.
“Apparently one of the errands she and pops had was-this.” He points. “It’s why she was double checking schedules-she wanted to carry on celebrating ya” Joel runs a hand down his face, grunting. He pulls out his phone.
-Mornin darlin. How are you doing? Just got into work, you didn’t have to do all of this but thank you it’s great.
He goes to grab a bottle of water from the mini fridge to find, stacks of beer. “Oh yeah, she wanted to give those the fellas for helpin when she was here. Apparently they were very helpful. So, you gonna let us have a little party or you gonna be more of a prick and let this aaalllll go to waste..again.”
Joel reluctantly nods, giving Tommy the bag full of toy guns, foam bullets, sheriff badges and bags of fake money. Within ten minutes Joel could hear them playing like children, “I got you sheriff!” “Ya big no good lili-liver scoundrel.” Joel goes to the window watching everything, tutting at himself, shaking his head, “fuckin children.” He grabs his phone and starts recording the idiots, minutes of them hiding behind the trucks, shooting their guns, yelling profanities with a deep western drawl. Then he hears Tommy, “Hey looksey here am grumpy Joely miller where’s ma coffee you rotten pig.” Recording stops.
“Your son has discovered his office decor, Dad.” He comes in with a tray of coffee, tea and chocolates, placing it down with a clank. “Babygirl, I can only apologise for his behaviour, his mama raised him better than that-I don’t know what’s so special about Tess anyway. I think she’s a whore.” You stop mid pour, “Joseph!”
“Pah, never liked her!” He barks. “Ya think he’ll let the other workers have the day?” You shrug, taking a sip of your tea. “I honestly don’t care-I mean, I hope he does but-we’ll see.”
“So what did you two do last night?” Joel takes a swig of beer, and starts peeling the label.
“Nothin, she arrived, we shared the piece cake I stole and had a talk.”
Joel looks up, “about what?”
“Look, Joel-this plan you two have going on, it’s crossed over to dangerous territory, it’s not gonna end well. There’s no way that the fight last night was just for pretend-not for her anyway.” Joel downs the last of the beer, and grabs another from the fridge. He pops the lid with his teeth and spits it on the floor. “Yeah” he said defeated, “I’ll talk to her later—Jesus listen to’em out there, a bunch of goddamn kids.”
“Ah! Leave’em to it-didn’t have much to do anyway.”
Joel taps his foot, and starts to peel the bottle label again.. “so what did she say? How was she?” Not looking at Tommy.
“Look, I know you weren’t thrilled that she came to my place. You guys should’ve talked, cleared the air but I dunno to me she was just-sad. I mean, shes worried about what happens after this-ends.”
Joel turned to Tommy, clearly caught off guard. He stood a little taller, brows knitting. ‘What ya talkin about?”
“You really think when you and Tess get back together that she’ll be allowed to stay in your life? That Tess will let her. Gonna have to keep ya woman happy so your “ex girlfriend” will have to go. Ya both are idiots cause you didn’t think this whole thing through. And fuck, Dads involved. He fucking loves her Joel, he’s making her call him Dad for fucks sake-,” he rolls his eyes, “and when this ends-so will they, cause again, you think Tess will allow it?”
Joel dragged a hand down his face, the truth settling in his gut-once you were and him were “broken up” you’d be gone-and Joel couldn’t settle with the thought.
“Okay, Dad my Uber’s here.” A small smile tugged at your mouth at the word Dad. He leaned out from the kitchen doorway. “Alright, alright—hang on a second,” he said with a little sway in his step, another afternoon of drinkin and bitchin with the old man. “Here, take this with you for Joel.” It was Joseph’s famous chilli sloppy joes, well sloppy Joels as he calls them. “I’ve added extra chili for the bastard, make the toilet his date for the night.” You burst out laughing. “God, Dad-I love how evil you are. You remind me of my father a little bit.”
“Ah Babygirl, I didn’t even think- you don’t have to call me Dad-I didn’t think-I’m so sor-.”
“Oh shush, it’s ok-you haven’t done anything wrong. And besides, he’d probably love that you’re in my life and I do call you Dad. “Ya can always trust a man over 70-they’ve seen an done it all. They’re very wise and they’ll look after ya.””
“The man knows what he’s talkin about, babygirl.”
“This was fun, Dad.” As you go to exit the door, Joseph gentle tugs at your arm, “hey, another thing before you go-,” he fished into his pocket on the novelty cardigan you bought him, “here-I want you to have this.” He presents a small velvet box on his palm-totally confused, you open the box as you lift it off his hand-a white gold sapphire ring. “Jesus, Mary and-well Joseph,.” He has such a sweet little smile on his face, “Dad, I love you an all but a marriage proposal is a little inappropriate don’t ya think?”
“Oh shush you. It was their mamas. After the boys were born, it wouldn’t fit anymore so she put it away for when a lovely girl comes along.” Ah shit.
“Aw Dad, I’m touched-truly but what about Maria, you may come to like her more than me.”
He gives you a stare like, bitch, please. “Don’t be ridiculous, I don’t know her yet.. Will you wear it?”
Whaaat. The. Fuuuuck. Do. You. Dooo?
As you hesitate, you couldn’t bring yourself to break his heart, “let’s see if it’s fits first, yeah?” And whadda know, fits fucking perfect. Luckily on your middle finger. “Well, at least I’ll flash something pretty while I flip someone off.” You give him a small hug, don’t wanna break his old bones, “thanks Dad, it’s perfect.” As you sit in the Uber you’re staring at the ring-it’s beautiful but “fuck… fuck fuck” you keep mumbling to yourself. You thought that if someone was going to get hurt in this, it was either you or Joel but his fucking dad! “Fuck.”
You arrive home to the remains of WW3, you had a few hours until Joel came home-god what was that gonna be like-so you start cleaning up. Glasses and plates first that are scattered throughout the kitchen and living room, next was the rubbish-you couldn’t be bothered separating it for recycling-when you go to take out the garbage, you see a figure at the door, shit-Joel’s home early so you run round the corner? But then there were a few taps on the door and a, “I know you’re in there, pretty girl-you’ve just been by the door.” You come from behind the corner, why were you hiding if it was Joel, you silly woman? “Cmon open up-gotta return these to Joel.”
It’s Frankie. The neighbourhood hottie.
You open the door, a little embarrassed-you might have to explain why you were hiding. He looks shy when you greet him, tugging off his cap and rubbing the back of his neck with it still in hand. “Is Joel here? He borrowed me these.” He hands you a heavy bag of tools, which you nearly drop. “Shit, what’s in here-a dead body?” you joke. “Come in, come in.” You step aside and gesture him in.
He crosses the threshold, taking in the mess. “Whoa-good dinner, I guess? Joel told me about it the other day. Judging by the state of this place, looks like a fight broke out in here.” You can’t exactly pull one over on him. He’s a smart one, a chopper pilot in the Army.. or is it the Marines? Doesn’t matter. “Uh, yeah-I kinda got.. a little upset last night.”
He looks you over, concern softening his expression. “Ah, shit. Wanna talk about it? You’re-okay now though, right?” He’s such a sweetheart. You barely know him- just passing hellos, maybe a hair twirl and a five-second conversation here and there. “Nah, but thanks. You’re not the person I need to talk to about this, but.. I appreciate it.”
“Hey, I’ve got nothin’ to do. Want some help?”
You could kiss him. “Aw, yes-thanks. But only if you really want to. You can back out, won’t hold it against you?”
He gives a quiet chuckle. “I wouldn’t have offered, pretty girl.”
You hear Joel’s truck screech into the driveway-here we go, you thought-having the last bite of your sandwich. You were so not in the mood for this. Frankie didn’t want to leave you alone but you assured him that this was just a lovers spat, quick kiss and we’ll make up, he gave you his number-just incase. You couldn’t decide if you should welcome Joel home with open arms or just wait until he starts talking first-hopefully with a fucking apology.
You flip the page of a magazine which is purely for show-Oo a story of “I married my computer and now I’m pregnant?’ You’ll read that later. Joel comes in inside, clinks his keys into the bowl, walking through, seeing you’ve cleaned up but acting like he’s gonna step on a land mine. “You here?” He asks so simply. “Back here.” You don’t look at him when he comes through the door, or even when he stands there for a few minutes, nervously rubbing his neck, opening and closing his trap. “Cmon, Joel, spit it out will ya.” Again you don’t look at him, the computer story became very interesting suddenly, you needed to focus on something other than his scent that’s wafted in and the awkwardness of this whole thing.
“You didn’t have to clean all that mess up by yourself-ya should have waited for me.”
“I didn’t-Frankie stopped by to give back your tools and he offered to help-so we did it together. I wasn’t gonna wait around to clean up.” You shake your head at the stupid suggestion. “Frankie came by?” Ah, Frankie-Joel’s Achilles heel. You have shamelessly flirted with him over the past weeks, obviously nothing too disrespectful to Joel, who, practically drools whenever Tess is near by. But Joel? Whoa, he didn’t like it. Never actually said the words but it was always, “he’s not really a tough guy, he’s just a pilot”, or “what’s with the hats? Looks like a dumbass.” And you defended him everytime, “he’s does more than pilot, Joel-you sound jealous.” It was entertaining at first but then he became so childish, barely wanted to handover his fucking tools to Frankie JUST cause it was Frankie.
“Yes-he came by to drop off your tools-am I talking a different language here?” You look up clearly showing irritation at this conversation, “what’s the big deal?”
“We’re not done being dramatic I see” You don’t know whether he’s saying it to be a bastard, or he actually thinks you were in the wrong, either way… still a bastard. “I dunno-we not done being an asshole?”
“All right” Pinching his nose-finishing the bickering for you both, “we clearly gotta talk about last night.” You raise your brows, so intrigued by what he’s got to say, leaning back in the chair, arms folded. “Okay. Which part? There’s so many to choose from.” Joel stands there, hands on his hips, dipping his head.
“Okay-I’m sorry I took my time getting home for the dinner, I’m sorry I invited Tess without asking or telling you-that wasn’t fair and-I’m sorry for the way I acted but you did over react a little.”
I mean, you had to accept it, right? The whole fucking point of her being in your life was so Joel could show how much of a “better man” he is and that he wants to be that for her. “I mean, if she’s ok with the way you treated me last night… then maybe you deserve each other-” before he even starts to talk, “I mean, you’ve been so mean and short with everyone since she’s been hanging around more an more. Your dads right, she’s not a nice person.”
“My dad?! The fuck-you two been talking about me behind my back?!” He raised his voice making your little smug disappear. “What the hell?! Okay-no more seeing my dad, no more ya hear?”
You stand up, straighten your shoulders-squaring up to the fucker. “Who the fuck-do you think you are, Huh? You can’t tell me what to fuckin do.” You poke his chest with your finger. “So-I’m -gonna -keep -seeing -your -dad and you’re gonna have to be a big boy and accept it” Joel grabs hold of your hand, “knock it off.”
In unison a knock and Frankie’s voice break whatever the hell was going on here, “Hello Pretty girl?” You both stare at the door, bad fucking timing or saved by the bell? You pull your hand away, “shit.” muttering to yourself, “be right there, Frankie.” You slouch your shoulders showing defeat. “Are we done here?”
“Yeah-go to your boyfriend.”
“—you’re a fuckin child, go run off to your bitch!”
You put in your biggest smile as you open the door, “hey-hi, come in, just need to grab my stuff.” He spots Joel behind you, “oh-hey Joel. Happy Birthday for yesterday, fifty I’m told?” He does a low whistle, “looking good for your age, my man.” He carries on, a little nervous, “she asked me to give a little talk to the kids down the community centre, should be good, and I’ll have her back by six, Mr Miller.” You give him a little laugh as you walk to Joel, preparing to kiss his cheek goodbye but he turns his head and you kiss his lips.
You pull away, wiping your mouth immediately, “What the hell?” you mutter, “cmon on Frankie let’s go.” You close the door behind you with Frankie talking about how awkward that was while you could still feel the bristles of Joels moustache on your skin. Deepening.
You got back home a little after eight, the house was dark, you couldn’t hear Joel, so he was out. Frankie took you for a burger after his talk to the kids, which was such a success-they loved him, his silliness more than anything. While munching on your burgers, he gave you a look over and asked, so sincerely what was going on, “I know we don’t really know each other, sweetheart but I’ll listen if you wanna talk about it.” -
-and then you told him.. everything.
Sorry but I haaaad to leave it on a cliffhanger🫣
Any mistakes I shall fix it later… I’ve read it four times and hopefully it’s all good!
Dividers by @/strangergraphics
