The realization crashes over me like ice water.I drag a hand down my face as understanding finally breaks through.My running from the diner, refusing my mother's calls – I'm doing exactly what Jeremy's kids did to him.She reached out to Alisha because I wouldn't give her a chance to be heard.
"Thank you, Jeremy."
"For what?"He slides the coin back into his coffee-colored pants pocket.
"You followed my stubborn ass and made me see that dwelling in anger only keeps this situation in a vacuum."
"That's your conclusion, my friend."His hand lands on my knee, warm and steady."Just remember – the more anger you carry in your heart, the less capable you are of love.And you've got two amazing women in your life who adore you.They deserve all your love.Go home and apologize to Alisha.That woman loves you with her whole feisty personality.And when you're ready, give your mother a chance.She's human, Cole.Humans make mistakes."
My throat tightens as I grab Jeremy's hand, squeezing it."For what it's worth, I've always seen you as my second dad.Your presence in my childhood made a tremendous difference.I hope your children come back to you."
A sentimental expression crosses his face as he nods."Thank you, Cole.I've always treated you like a second son."His lips curve slightly."And actually, my daughter reached out two months ago.She's living in Canada now, has a family.Says she wants to restore our relationship."
We both stand, and I catch myself grinning at the little boy who's returned to the piano.But Jeremy's not finished.
"Cole, there's something else I need to ask you."
I turn to find him fidgeting with his collar, uncharacteristically nervous.
"Of course."
He clears his throat, takes a deep breath."I understand this might come as a surprise, but I'd like your permission to ask your mother out on a date."
My mouth falls open.Of all the things I expected to hear today, this wasn't even on the list.
"What I'm saying is that your mom and I have become closer through the years."
My nose crinkles involuntarily, making Jeremy roll his eyes.
"Not like that, young man.Nothing's happened.But we've both changed, and I—"
I grip his shoulders, forcing him to meet my eyes."You don't need my approval to ask my mom out, Jeremy.But since you want my opinion – if anyone can handle my mother, it's you."
His eyes gleam as his roaring laughter fills the street."Yeah, I can handle her."
We walk in comfortable silence until a food truck catches our eye.After grabbing hot dogs, we head back toward the store, but it's already closed.
"Need a lift?"
"That would be great."
"Come with me.I parked in the next street."
We round the corner, and my steps falter.A police car sits midway down the block, lights flashing, and officers are clustered around a familiar vehicle.
"Pardon me," I say, approaching one officer.
He turns, offering a professional smile."Good day, sir.Are you the owner of this car?"
"Yes, I am."The words catch in my throat as I spot the shattered side window.I pull out my wallet, hand over my license."What happened?"
"Someone broke into your car.We received a call about the alarm going off.Witness saw someone running away.Was there anything valuable in sight?"
"No."
The officer's eyes narrow."That's odd.Most thieves who break in mid-day do it for valuable items.They know the alarm will sound, so if there's nothing worth taking..."
I shrug, then freeze as memory hits."Shit.My phone.I left it on the passenger seat."
