Chapter 7

Dad scowled at his son and remarked, "I thought you were bulking up." You haven't put that on in over a quarter of a year. Have you not gained any muscle at all? You are aware that the trainer advised you to put on more mass in order to be able to withstand a more significant blow.

"I have, Dad—"

“Bullshit. You need to go to the store right now and pick up a bunch of raw eggs and meat or something like that. Before the holidays roll around, you should make sure to pack on some muscle.

"All right," I yelled as I ran out the door of the building. I had put on some weight, mostly in my thighs and calves. I would not have been able to withstand as much of a blow three months ago as I am able to now.

As I turned the key in the ignition of the car, I shook my head and almost laughed out loud to myself at the thought that I had actually believed he would be relieved that he wouldn't have to buy me a new tuxedo.

When I thought back to the last time he seemed pleased with me, it was when the f