Page 63 of Frog

“But I’m a little bit afraid I’m dreaming right now so I kind of don’t want to stop looking at you.”

“God, you’re so drunk and cute.”

“What?”

“Get in the car,” I ordered him, holding open the passenger side door.

“I am not cute, and I’m not that drunk.”

I shoved him down, held onto his head so he wouldn’t clunk it, and closed the door. Once I was behind the wheel, he reiterated that yes, he was a little tipsy, but not sloshed.

“Okay, darlin’,” I agreed, strapping him in. “Try not to puke in the car.”

“I’m not gonna be sick.” He was indignant. “I drink all the time, Weber.”

Uh-huh.

I didn’t even say I told you so when I had to stop three blocks away so he could hurl up a lung. It would have been mean.

At home, I put a cool washcloth on the back of his neck as he threw up some more and then rubbed his back when it subsided to retching.

“This is supposed to be the most beautiful night of my life,” he groaned, head on the rim of the porcelain bowl, his skin moist, pale, and chilled.

“But this way it’s memorable.” I smiled at him.

“I’m disgusting.”

“You’re drunk.” I sighed. “Did you even eat anything today?”

He ignored my question. “How can you even be in here?”

“Because all this don’t bother me none. Now get up, wash your face, brush your teeth, and I’ll get you some Tylenol and water.”

“This is gross, but I’m kind of hungry.”

“Okay.”

“And I want a shower.”

“Good.” I couldn’t stop smiling at him. “You do that. I’ll make you a sandwich and some soup. Meet me in the kitchen.”

“Thanks.”

I got up and left him then.

By the time he staggered out to the kitchen and took a seat at the bar, I had a turkey sandwich made for him, just plain except for a light smear of mayonnaise, and a bowl of chicken noodle soup. There was a glass of water as well, and two Tylenol caplets.

He ate and I cleaned up.

“Web.”

I turned around, leaned back against the sink, and looked at him.

“What are you planning on doing now that you’re going to stay?”

“I’m gonna work for your sister and take care of them boys. I don’t think her husband is comin’ back, but even if he does, she’ll still need me. He cheated on her once, she ain’t about to be made a fool of a second time. She won’t have another woman in her house.”

“I agree.” He cleared his throat. “Are you okay with doing that? Taking care of the kids?”