Chapter 11

“Fred Winslow.”

“Dad.”

“Sully. You all right?”

“Yeah. I just wanted…I wanted to tell you that I love you.”

Dad grunts. “You’re worrying me, son. Are you sick?”

“No, no. Nothing like that. It’s just…someone I know, someone important, just told his family he’s gay. They didn’t take it well and I needed to tell you I appreciate you.”

Another grunt. “That the guy you told me about?”

“Yeah.”

“He coming back?”

“Yes. He’s on his way.”

He exhales, long and noisy. “Take care of that boy, you hear?” His voice is grumpier than ever, laced with irritation, but I know it’s not directed at me or Lou.

“I will.”

“And bring him round for dinner.”

“Oh, Dad.”

“Gotta go, son. News is coming on.”

I can’t help but smile. My rough, stern dad with his tough-looking exterior and soft insides. All bark and no bite. “Sure,” I say. “Wouldn’t want you to miss the news.”

But before I can hang up, he says my name.