Think shit head. Think!
But I couldn’t and my long pause only piqued her interest even more.
“What did your father say?”
“Um… Nothing. Forget I said that. It’s not important.”
Bethany firmly grabbed my hand and said.
“Tyler… what did your father tell you?”
Pulling my hand away, and in a firm voice, I replied.
“I’m not saying. I’m not hurting you again.”
Beth straightened her posture, and her demeanor was one of authority.
“So you’re not going to tell me then?”
“No… I’m not” I said hesitantly, even though my mind was telling me too.
“Fine… I guess this talk is over.”
“I guess it is.” I replied and watched her get up to leave.
Tell her you idiot. Be strong. She needs to know. I kept hearing in my mind as she walked heavy footed back to the house. But I just couldn’t muster the courage to do it.
The rest of the day was very quiet. Even when Dad came back, things were very uncomfortable. It was mainly because I blamed him for my being in this predicament. So when Dad suggested we go out and see a movie I fibbed and said I wasn’t feeling well. Then I excused myself and went to my room.
The next morning was filled with the same eerie stillness, and as we ate breakfast Dad spoke up.
“So what am I missing here? You two have been awfully quiet.”
I looked at Beth as she spoke.
“Nothing dear. Tyler and I just had a disagreement.”
“Oh? Over what?”
“About not finishing sentences.”
Dad looked puzzled but before he could talk, I interjected.
“It wasn’t appropriate. I told you. But like all women, you have to know everything.”
“Hey hey. Settle down Mr.” Dad said.
“Sorry Dad. I said and looked at Bethany.
“Sorry Beth… that was uncalled for.”
Bethany didn’t reply and just walked out of the kitchen.
Dad looked at her as she walked away then turned to me and said.
“Wow you really got her pissed.”
“Yeah I know.” I said and excused myself from the table and went back to my room.
I spent the day lying on my bed trying to figure out a way to make things right between Beth and I. Even if I told her about Dad’s indiscretions, she had made it clear we couldn’t be with each other again. I wasn’t going to take advantage of her weaknesses anymore. The last straw was at dinner when Dad explained how he would have to work late once more, giving me a sly wink when Beth wasn’t looking. I knew what that meant, and I again became furious. I couldn’t take it. So when Dad and Bethany went to sleep. I packed my stuff up and wrote a note before hitching a ride to the bus station.
In the note, I said.
Sorry for the letter, but I know you would try to stop me from going home. I hope you understand I came out to see you. Maybe we can do this again when you’re not so busy. Thanks and tell Bethany, I’m sorry.
Halfway home I hesitantly dialed Mom’s number. After several rings, I heard her sweet voice.
“Hey… Sorry Mom for not calling sooner. I hope you didn’t worry.”
“Where are you calling from?”
“I… I’m on my way home. I caught a bus last night.”
“Why didn’t your father fly you home?”
“I’ll explain when I get home Mom.”