Overkill // Joseph Quinn

42

1 week before Thanksgiving

"I don't know, do you think they'd care?"

I walk down the concrete steps that end on the sidewalk, starting my way back home.

"They're the ones begging me to call. You know how mom is, she won't do it herself." Sara explains.

I hear my mom in the background whispering things to Sara. To which she responds with shushing her.

"Hi, mom." I smile through the phone, wishing I could see her reaction.

"She walked away. She's just nervous about your answer. She really wants you to come home."

I keep my smile with my hopes high that she's telling the truth.

"I'll think about it, okay? I've been really busy since I got back in L.A." I respond.

My fear of going back to my usual, boring routine was proven wrong. After I met up with Drew the day I flew back, I've been nonstop. Constant meetings with him and musicians audition to be in my band for future shows. I've found one drummer that I really like who's actually siblings with a pianist. I've also seen some interesting choices, but I'd never call a musician bad or untalented.

"Okay, just preferably by the end of the weekend? I can't handle mom being manic." She jokes.

I agree to the deal and hang up the phone. I do see myself going home for at least Thanksgiving, but I can't see myself staying there until after Christmas. It's going to be a process in trying to reform our relationship with each other. Enough to make us feel like a family again. I'm definitely up for trying.

In regards to Joseph, we haven't spoke since I left a few days ago. I know the whole point of this was to have space, but it's killing me to not text or call him about all the accomplishments I've made since being back home.

I go back to my contacts list and find Jo's name. He said he would be landing in L.A around this time. I offered to pick him up from the airport. I just miss him.

"Hey, I was just about to call you." He says immediately after answering.

"Should I be on my way?" I ask, crossing the street to arrive at my complex.

"Yeah, but no rush. Bring Dixie." He says then hangs up.

I rush up the stairs, unlock my apartment door, and push my way in.

"Road trip, Dix." I announce into the quiet apartment.

She comes running out from the hallway like she understood exactly what I said. I grab her carrier and gently place her inside.

"You ready to see Uncle Jo? I sure am."

****

I keep begging Jo telepathically to not ask about my trip with Joseph. He knows I wasn't supposed to be back for another week, so he's definitely thinking something is up.

"Did you guys get a lot done?" I ask, trying to keep a conversation to avoid another.

"Yeah we did. I'm pumped to see how it all comes out." He responds.

I look over and see him petting on Dixie in his lap, staring out the window. I smile at the sight. I missed this a lot, car rides with them.

"How's all the meetings with Drew? Find any good band members?" He asks.

I sigh, stretching my body out at the stoplight.

"I found a really cool drummer. His name is Waylon. His sister actually plays piano and other percussions. I still need a bass and guitar but no one's shown up to audition for that." I ramble on.