Southern Hospitality

Chapter 33

It was Amber's and George's wedding today, since Landon's game we haven't spoken much. I tried to get him to tell me what why he ran from Evelyn but anytime I asked we ended up arguing. I had no idea what to do with him but for today we were going to act good for Amber and George 

Getting myself dressed I walked inside Landon's room and saw him on the bed. He was holding a photo and I went besides him, looking at the picture it was one we took at the zoo for his birthday

"Why are you nice to her after she left us" he whispered 

I was stunned from his words, was he talking about Evelyn? 

"Bud... Evelyn didn't leave us" I began  

"She did dad! Just like mom..." he shouted crumbling the photo and throwing it on the ground

I had no words as the pain in his voice was clear, it was my fault for not fighting for Savannah to stay. I shouldn't have let any of this to happen, when Evelyn left I should have told him the truth. Landon stormed out the room leaving me with my thoughts

There wasn't much I could do but consult him and make sure he feels loved. Leaving his room I went downstairs to get my shoes on and head to the venue. Landon was ready on his phone with the headphones in again

Walking to the front door I motioned for him to get up and we both went outside to the car. Once situated, I began driving. I was George's best man tonight and I needed Landon to understand Evelyn didn't abandon him 

"Listen, Landon I want you to be nice to Evelyn tonight. Its not her fault for leaving" I stated not sure how to say this

I watched the kid roll his eyes and turn up the music, "Dad you don't have to make excuses for people, I'm old enough to understand when people don't want to be around" 

"Landon, enough! Evelyn left because of me" I shouted causing him to look at me shocked 

"What?" he asked 

We came to a run light and I placed my head on the wheel taking a deep breath. Landon was turning 12 soon, he's old enough to know this stuff now

"I cheated on Evelyn and thats why she left" I finally admitted 

Saying the words reminded me of the night we argued, I think about it everyday and wish I could go back in time and change it all. Landon stared at me in disbelief, I felt like an idiot explaining to my son how I ruined the one relationship that changed me for the best 

"Dad... thats so low" he whispered 

"I know, trust me Evelyn gave me a mouthful" I sighed 

Landon began to take his headphones out and placed a hand on my shoulder, "do you still love her?" he asked 

"Of course" I answered quickly 

Evelyn was somebody I would never forget, she was a special soul and irreplaceable. These past three years have been the hardest as I only wanted her by my side. Savannah leaving hit harder than I expected because I had to become a father and mother for Landon. The town was no help either and I often found myself feeling lonely... Evelyn always knew how to brighten my mood. I've missed her so much these past few years

"Well, dad I'll help you get her back tonight" Landon said with a smirk 

I raised my eyebrows at this kid, "what are you talking about?" I laughed 

"I want you to be happy, Dad" he said before putting the headphones back in

I only could laugh at him, Landon was growing into a fine man. We arrived at the venue 20min early so I could help George get his nerves out. Landon helped carry everything inside as I headed to George