The Capozzi Family: Joey #1

Joey and Vicky leave the basement behind and slide into a corner booth at a nearly empty diner. Fluorescent light washes the vinyl seats pale, and the coffee machine hisses somewhere behind the counter.

Vicky keeps her arms folded at first, staring at the ketchup caddy. For once, she does not look like she is trying to own the room.

She lets out a slow breath and glances at Joey, then away again, like saying the next part costs her.

The diner's low hum fills the gap after her words. A waitress drops two waters at the edge of the table and keeps moving, giving them space.

Vicky finally looks up, shoulders still tight but no longer braced for impact. The question hangs there, softer than the basement ever was, waiting for Joey to answer.

Joey slides out of the booth and wraps Vicky in a careful hug. She stiffens for half a beat, then folds into it, one hand clutching the back of his shirt.

Vicky’s face presses briefly against his shoulder. When she pulls back, her eyes are wet, but her jaw is steadier.

The diner stays quiet around them, all chrome shine and soft machine hum. Vicky wipes under one eye with the heel of her hand and lets out a shaky laugh that does not quite become a smile.