Cal raked his fingers through his long hair. “Are you moving back in here? Your dad is a maniac.”
“You heard him. I don’t have a choice. Debby will have her baby in a couple weeks, and I have nowhere to go.”
“You can live with me. My place is small, but we could make it work.”
I didn’t know him well. What if we didn’t get along after I went with him? Besides, Dad would call the law on us.
The door rattled, and my heart thumped when it flew open.
“You know boys aren’t allowed in here,” Dad said.
“Dad, we’re just talking —”
“Shut your mouth, or I’ll shut it for you.” His posture stiffened.
We had to get out of here. Dad blocked the exit. Rather than challenging him, I stayed put. I could hear Cal breathing. He was no match for my father.
Dad glared at both of us. “Cal it’s time to say goodbye.” He stomped away.
I exhaled. It was safer with Cal here. Any other time, Dad would’ve stripped off his belt and whipped me. There was a five-minute window for Cal to leave before Dad threw him out and came after me next.
“He’s crazy. Come with me.” Cal sat on the bed’s edge, one leg dangling, ready to stand.