Two and Half Men - Reborn as Jake Harper

Chapter 18

Frankie and Joanie were saying goodbye.

Frankie had finally ended her whirlwind stay at the house, and I could see it in Dad's eyes—he was actually sad.

I, on the other hand, was relieved. Joanie had spent most of her time hovering around me like I was a celebrity, giggling at everything I said, following me around the house, and once even offering me a juice box like it was a grand romantic gesture. I mean, I get it. I'm cool. But this was a bit much.

We were sitting in the kitchen after they'd gone, just me, Charlie, and Dad.

I leaned back in my chair and sighed. "Well... that was new."

Charlie took a sip of his coffee. "You mean the part where I became the third wheel in my own house?"

"No," I said. "The part where I had to deal with an eight-year-old girl having a crush on me... and Dad got all the good stuff."

Dad didn't even deny it. Just gave a wistful smile.

"Unreal," I muttered, reaching for the last slice of toast.

Welcome to Malibu.

———