*Elio*
As soon as I had gotten back to work with Leo, I had completely forgotten about Cat’s dinner party. It wasn’t until we were signing our last contracts for the night, the time approaching four o'clock, that I realized I still hadn’t called my parents.
I eventually decided to bite the bullet, calling Dad, who would probably be quicker to respond than Mom, though I wasn’t sure he would even pick up for me anymore. I was no longer his golden son, I thought bitterly. Now I was the family's disappointment.
Much to my surprise, however, the call did go through but there was no hello on the other end. I could hear my dad’s breath though, and I heaved a sigh before I said calmly, “Hey, Dad.”
“Elio.”
I couldn’t say I wasn’t expecting that cold response. I shook it off, plowing straight on.
“I know it’s last-minute, but would you and Mom be able to come to dinner tonight at our place? I’ve… I’ve got some exciting news to share.”
