Total pages in book: 128
Estimated words: 125020 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 625(@200wpm)___ 500(@250wpm)___ 417(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 125020 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 625(@200wpm)___ 500(@250wpm)___ 417(@300wpm)
“You know, that ring would look real sassy on anyone other than your pretty ass,” he taunts.
“And yet, you just gave it to me.”
“You haven’t seen the best part.” He reaches over and presses the side of the ring. A blade pops out. “I thought of you as soon as I saw this feature.”
I lift a brow. “What made you think of me?”
He shrugs. “Your gladiator over there isn’t always going to be around. Slitting throats and going about your business is the Kelex I know.”
“That’s my father, not me.”
“It’s a gift. You never know when it might come in handy.”
“I doubt I’ll use it as intended, but thanks.”
“How are things going with the fiancée?”
“Good. We’re happy.”
“Nice. I’m happy for you, man. I hope your dad backs off and allows you some peace.”
“You and me both. Hey, we’ve been talking about a skydiving trip. As always, the invitation is open. You in?”
“Mm, an asshole trip? If Tak is supplying the weed, I might go.”
I laugh. “I’m not going to hold my breath.”
“Nah, I mean it. I’ve been thinking about hanging with your peeps more. Vegas was fun.”
“Vegas?”
“Yeah, the bachelor party.”
“You went?”
He shrugs. “I knew you had to go see Basil. I figured I’d represent.”
“Hey, guys. I’m done,” True says as he comes over.
“I’ve got this one,” Jeff says and pulls out his wallet.
Chapter 60
New York
Shawna
I stare up at the ceiling in this hotel room, trying to fight back tears. Josh and I had our first real fight. It was after he excused himself to make a call.
I only wanted to check on him and let him know we needed to leave soon to join True at the studio. He snapped at me for no reason. I don’t even know what made me lose it, but I did.
I was so mad at him for talking to me like that. Now I feel bad because I’ve seen that something has been bothering him. I should have been more patient. I’m almost grateful Vernice ended up with a stomachache.
She stirs in the bed next to me and opens her eyes. She wanted to sleep in my bed since the others would be at the studio all night. Twenty-four hours is a long time to be in the studio.
I didn’t even know you could do that. I know True has to be in heaven. I can’t wait to hear what he’s done.
“How are you feeling, honey?” I reach to brush a hand over her hair. She gives me an adorable smile.
“I feel better. I wish we could go now,” she replies.
“I know. Next time.”
“Will they be back soon?”
“I don’t think so. I haven’t spoken to Josh yet.”
Her face grows sad. She was bummed about not getting to go with the others. I was a little disappointed too, but she wasn’t feeling well, and after the fight, I thought it best we stayed here at the hotel.
My phone rings and I see it’s a FaceTime from Cat. I answer and she’s smiling at me as she holds her finger up to her lips, then beckons me with her hand as if to tell me to follow her. The sound of an acoustic guitar fills the air as she walks through a door.
She starts to sing “If You Let Me” by Sinead Harnett. Cat has such a beautiful voice and tone. This song fits it perfectly. I run a hand through my hair and my mind goes to Josh.
I hate how we left things. Suddenly, Cat turns the camera, and Josh comes into view, playing the guitar. He takes over singing the hook of the song and flows right into the second verse.
My heart almost bursts. He’s looking right into the camera as if looking into my eyes. My mouth falls open. I’ve never heard him sing like this. Yes, I knew he could sing, but this is so soulful and gritty. He’s giving Cat and Sinead a run for their money.
My lips tremble as I listen to him finish the song. I get it. This is his way of saying sorry. It’s the end for me when he sings my name as he says he’ll love me like he’s never, ever loved somebody. The tears I’ve been holding back all morning run down my cheeks.
“I love you, baby. I’m so sorry,” he says after he sings the last note.
“I hate fighting with you. I love you too.”
“Let me make it up to you. Helios is going to take the kids skating. Be ready to go on a date with your husband so he can make up for being an asshole to you.”
I bite my lip and nod my head as I wipe away my tears. I’m still in awe of his voice and that he’s just sang to me.
“I’ll be ready,” I say.
“How’s Vernice?”
“I’m fine. I’m right here,” she sings and moves so she can be seen. “Can Helios come get me now?”