The Summer I Met You

CHAPTER 12

  I wake to the sound of aliens invading the house. Dad's Fourth of July tradition is watching Independence Day. He has a thing for Jeff Goldbum, and I can't blame him, for an older guy he's easy on the eyes. Walker disagrees and is a diehard fan of the Fresh Prince, Will Smith.

With aliens on my mind, it gives me a great idea for my next post on Instagram. I work quickly, not wanting to miss a moment more of the movie.

Orbit_TheaterLI: In honor of Independence Day, what is your favorite alien movie? My heart will always lie with the Starliens, but I grew up in a house full of Jeff Goldblum and Will Smith lovers, so it's a tossup for me.

I'm so excited to watch the movie that I don't bother waiting for the post to load. As I reach the bottom step, I pause. I'm struck with envy at the scene before me. The three of them look like a family. Walker and Dad have their arms perched behind Elli, who sits at the edge of his seat bouncing with excitement. I catch moments of Dad and Walker glancing at each other lovingly, while keeping a watchful eye on Elli. It's a picture-perfect moment without me, and I need a minute to collect myself.

I swallow hard trying to ignore the lump in my throat. It's no use, my nose tingles, and my eyes burn with tears. I step back ready to flee, but the step creaks, giving away my presence. Dad and Walker both snap their attention to me. I give them the best smile that I can muster, without giving away my true feelings.

"You started without me." I give a fake pout.

Dad doesn't notice my emotions, but Walker does. He keeps a watchful eye on me as I enter the living room.

"It just started, join us." Dad's eyes meet mine. His lips pull into a smile that reaches his eyes. My gut twists. I should just be happy that I'm finally getting time with him. Maybe I've missed him more than I realized.

Dad moves over to make room, and I slide between him and the arm rest.

"Hey Elli, look who's here." Walker carefully touches Elli's shoulder guiding him in my direction.

Joy fills his eyes the moment he spots me. Standing, Elli flaps his hands and yells, "Ex!"

His attention darts between me, the TV, and around the whole room.

"Hey buddy," I say, trying to hide the wavering in my voice.

I'm still trying to hold myself together. I can't figure out what has come over me. I shouldn't have these types of feelings, not when I'm genuinely happy for them.

"Aliens." Ellie says, pointing towards the TV.

"I love aliens," I say.

Elli does a little dance, then puts his full attention back on the TV.

"Got your favorite breakfast." Dad points to the bagels laid out on the coffee table. He has all my favorites piled onto one plate. Guilt washes over me for the jealous feeling hanging over my head.

"Got any plans?" Walker asks.

I start spreading some butter over my everything bagel and look up at him. "Patty's party is today. Alexa's picking me up.

"Party! Party!"

Elli jumps in the air, almost knocking over his small cup of OJ. Dad smiles and carefully pulls Elli back down onto the couch, where he continues to bounce and whisper the word, party.

"Speaking of parties." Dad starts to say. "I need a favor."

I raise a brow at him and stop buttering my bagel.