Only after I'd gotten Russ completely settled did I finally go back to the bedroom.
Job had been waiting for a long time.
He sat by the window, wreathed in cigarette smoke, the ashtray in front of him overflowing with spent butts.
I frowned, walked over, and shoved the window open.
"All you ever do is smoke, smoke, smoke. Why can't you be more like Russ? He's never touched a cigarette in his life!"
Job nearly choked on his own breath. He coughed for a long time before recovering, his words grinding out through clenched teeth.
"Karen, is Russ Harding the only thing you ever talk about?"
"Pretty much. Just like Kay is the only thing you ever talk to me about."
The moment I mentioned Kay's name, Job's expression shifted to irritation. He was about to accuse me of being petty again, but when he turned his head, his gaze landed on the anniversary cake sitting on the table.
Sitting there all alone. Untouched.
Only then did it dawn on him that today was our fifth wedding anniversary.
Job's tone softened immediately.
"Karen, I'm sorry. I forgot today was our anniversary. I'll make it up to you."
"I've already scheduled Kay's heart surgery. Once she's recovered, I'll send her on her way. Okay?"