Chapter 8 #2
The note is addressed to me and is dated two years ago.
So, it’s fairly recent that Marisa and Robert updated their will.
Even after all that time, they still found me fit enough to leave their only child with.
I’m fucking humbled, and I’m still fucking panicking.
Maybe if I’d been in a loving relationship, I would’ve been better suited.
The typewritten note says he’s gifted in music and especially enjoys the flute, piano, and guitar.
He takes band in school, but he goes to music school three days a week.
I don’t know if he’s still practicing music after two years.
I know kids enough to understand their interests change over time, but I’d ask him to be sure.
His favorite foods are spaghetti, tacos, and chocolate milk. He’s been learning how to cook and enjoys it.
It goes on to say that he likes playing video games, he’s very introverted and shy, but he’s incredibly sweet and intelligent.
He also likes school and has good grades.
Once he gets to know people, he opens up and talks a lot about his interests.
I make a mental note to get a video game console and some games. I should grab some instruments, too.
The letter goes on to say that he was easy to raise and that there were no notable issues as he grew up.
My friends put a lot of thought into this, almost as if they foresaw their deaths. I don’t even have a will. I never bothered because there’s no one important in my life.
Until now…
With a deep and shuddering breath, I open the envelope addressed to me. This one is dated the same as the other.
Dearest Cal,
If you’ve received this letter, then Robert and I are gone, and Braeden has been left in your care. Our poor boy. I can’t even imagine what he’s going through right now.
The thought of Braeden potentially losing us is painful, but Robert and I want to be prepared for all contingencies.
Thank you for being his godfather and for being his willing guardian. We understand you never wanted children, but we trust you to do right by our son. We know that in the chaos, you’ll shine bright for him and yourself. He’s in good hands.
Braeden will eventually come to love you. We hope you’ll love him, too. He’s incredibly sweet, thoughtful, emotionally intelligent, and smart. He struggles with insecurity and is very shy, but he will open up to you. I know it.
We’ve also set aside some funds for him for college, and some money for you to help raise him.
Robert and I trust you to take care of our most precious asset. You may doubt yourself now. You may be scared. But you can do this.
We adore you and miss you.
Your friends,
Marisa and Robert Cox
My eyes water again, and I pinch them to fucking stop it. It’s time to be strong. My life as I know it is over. There’s no turning back. It’s time to grow the fuck up.
A couple of hours later, Braeden comes downstairs and sits on the farthest corner of the couch. I’ve been sitting here, still sifting through the legal documents and figuring out the process of how to be a permanent fixture in his life. I’ve also been making a list of everything I need to do.
How did new parents deal with this? It’s so fucking much. Then again, I’m getting a crash course in a few short hours. Parent. Jesus. Never once did I think I would be calling myself that.
I close the folders and sit back to look at Braeden. His eyes are swollen, his hair is rumpled, and he’s picking at the torn bits on his jeans.
“Did you sleep okay?”
He only nods. I don’t expect much else.
“I need to order some groceries. Is there anything in particular you like to eat?”
The only thing he gives me is his silence. He doesn’t even look at me.
“I bet you like that sugary cereal stuff, huh? Chips? Soda? I eat healthily, but we can make some exceptions.”
He still says nothing.
“I’m getting you set up at the local high school, but you don’t have to go right away. I know this will take time and adjustment.”
God, it’s like talking to an inanimate object. I realize he’s grieving, and he’s terrified about what’s to happen to him, but I have no idea how to breach his walls.
“There are a lot of fun things to do in New Orleans. I’m sure we can find something to do… if you want.”
When I’m still met with silence, I sigh, lean forward, rest my elbows on my thighs, and look at him. “I’m so sorry about your parents. I realize it may not mean much, but they were amazing people. I liked them a lot.”
The only sign of life from him was the sudden tears and sniffling.
I nearly called my mother asking for help, but hell would freeze over first. I’m sure she’ll criticize me or make me feel more inept than I already do. Tell me I’ll do a terrible job, no doubt.
Even if my neighbor is annoyed with me, he’s my best option for now.
“Let’s head next door. I’m really clueless about this, Braeden, and I need some help.”
He stands and waits for me without complaint.
Okay, now to suck up my fucking pride and tuck my tail between my legs.