ed, breaking the uneasy quiet.
Dad panicked and said, “This is Clara, my housekeeper… the maid!”
My eyes widened in disbelief. Maid? Really, Dad? I was wounded and angry.
She grinned, “Oh, nice!” “Can Clara clean the bedroom today? It’s untidy following our visit.”
My jaw fell. This was unbelievable. After their time, clean the bedroom?
Dad looked like he wanted to vanish.
Mr. Daniels, the bedroom? Asking to control my wrath.
“Yes…” he moaned, looking sorrowful. “Enough for today.”
“Okay, Mr. Daniels,” I responded calmly.
I walked upstairs with a dust cloth and glared at them. I couldn’t believe Dad dubbed me the home cleaner.
The bedroom was a shambles when I entered.
Clothing was everywhere, and the bed was messy. I wrinkled my nose at the woman’s aroma. That embarrassing situation made me not want to clean it.
Sitting there, I contemplated my options. Dad placed me in this situation, so I had to teach him.
If his new partner didn’t like kids, she should know I’m important to Dad. For Dad to hide me because of it was unfair to us both. Why would Dad date someone who rejected me?
It struck me. I had to face Dad to expose his deception without making things worse. I had to be smart. It had to be unavoidable.
I sat on the bed, the disarray mirroring my mental tempest. I had an idea soon.
Dad will never forget this “house cleaner” fixing his mess!
Back in the living room, Dad and the lady were conversing, oblivious of what was to come.
Looking cheeky, I said, “Looks like your night wasn’t as wild as the day before yesterday, Mr. Daniels! That day, I cleaned for hours after you! I apologize for my words.”
Her cheeks became crimson with rage. “I was absent yesterday! “Who were you with?” she shouted at Dad.
Dad’s eyes widened, and he seemed faint. “What are you saying, Clara?” he muttered.
I looked bewildered, tilting my head. Sorry, ma’am, you’re Jessica, right? You were amazing, Mr. Daniels kept saying!
She burst with rage. “I’m MARTHA!” she cried to Dad. “Who the hell is Jessica?”
Dad opened and closed his lips, speechless. Martha’s face contorted in anger as she smacked him hard, the sound echoing. She bolted, slamming the door.
I stood watching Dad stroke his face. He glanced at me, frustrated and powerless. Why did Clara do that?
Satisfied, I crossed my arms. You lied about me and placed me in a terrible situation, Dad. When dating, be honest. Do not hire me again as your housekeeper. Mr. Daniels, any more cleanup? I smile cheekily and inquire.
Dad looked, then laughed.
We laughed till we could scarcely stand when the chuckle became a loud laugh. Warmth replaced tension in our relationship.
Really, Dad, you brought home a lady like her? She’s annoying! You lied about me. Why?
Dad shrugged sheepishly. It seems she disliked children. Perhaps that’s why I didn’t mention you.”
Rolling my eyes. Dad, don’t waste your time on people who hate kids. Knowing that, right?
I know, Clara. Sorry for my behavior. I should have told you and her the truth.”
Walked up and embraced him. Dad, it’s alright. Remember, we work together. Please stop keeping secrets.
He embraced me strongly. No more secrets. I assure you.”
I gazed around the living room as we parted. “Now, about cleaning…
Dad chuckled, shaking his head. I suppose we’re done cleaning today. Why not order pizza and watch a movie?
I smile. It sounds perfect.”
