Weird

 

"He knows the rules," my wife said, "but just in case he tries anything, I have a list right here." My wife went to the counter, pointed to a laminated card she made. "His dinner is on a plate in the fridge, he gets ready for bed at 7, in bed by 8."

"8? That's early," the pretty college age girl said, looking over at me with a snicker.

My wife smiled. "He gets into less trouble when he's in bed early and up early," she said. "Besides, I know it's a sacrifice to give up your Saturday night."

"It's okay," the young woman said, looking over at me again. "I can use the money."

"I assumed," she said. "Still, you shouldn't have your night ruined. I don't mind if you have a guy over...I assume you're dating."

"Yea, I've been seeing this guy..."

"Well he's welcome to come over once you put him to bed."

"What time will you be back?"

"We'll be out late, my boyfriend's taking me to a show, a late dinner, then probably his place for awhile, so...two or so okay?"

The sitter looked over at me, amused. "He...he won't bother us, will he?"

"Sorry, no, that's on the list. His room in the basement has a lock on the outside, if you and your boyfriend want some time to...well...some private time, just lock it. That's what I do when my boyfriend's over."

The girl snicked. "This is all kind of weird," she said.

My wife turned and I looked at her, the tight dress, the nylons, the heels. It was weird, but it was our life. "It's weird," she said, "you sure you're okay with this?"

"I mean...the pay's good and my date can come over...yea...it's good."

"You're going to feel sorry for him but don't," my wife said, "it's not easy to understand, but trust me, this is the life he wants."