The Conditions of Will

by Jessa Hastings

I hated my dad for all the ways he wasn’t there for me and Oliver, but I still wanted him to want to be my dad.

I walk up the stairs and Sam’s behind me. He moves quietly but stays close, and I get the distinct feeling that maybe he is the adult version of a nightlight. At least, that’s what he’s becoming to me.

His kisses are commas.