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’re intelligent. There’s something calming about you. And I’m less dangerous over the phone. You should still avoid ever meeting me, but for now, call me when you want to talk. You might just be saving me in the process, gorgeous.”
“You don’t know what I look like, why keep calling me that?”
“Something tells me I’m right. Didn’t you hear?”
“Hear what?”
“I’m always right,” he says through a deep laugh. “Later, Shawna. And baby girl?”
“Yeah?”
“Run.”
Chapter 13
Humanity
Kelex
I look down at the address on my phone and then back up at the building in front of me. Zoe asked me to meet her here. I twist my lips and start for the front door.
It’s been two weeks since going to see Blake and talking to my grandfather on the phone. He had a lot to say and agreed with Blake’s plan. My father hasn’t stopped shit.
I’m going to meet up with Achilles after this. He’s already put things in motion. I have a few docs to sign and I’ll get my first payout. We fly out this weekend to look at a few of the restaurants. Knowing they will be steak houses, I’ve been reading up on the business, learning what I can on my own.
“Joshua, over here, love,” I turn to find Zoe with an older woman next to her.
Zoe is dressed to the nines as usual, with gray slacks that flare at the bottom and a black leather blazer with an asymmetrical cut. If I had a woman like her, I’d keep it to myself as well.
“Good afternoon, handsome,” she says after kissing both of my cheeks. “This is Minerva. She’s the director of the program.”
“Program? What program?”
“The program we’re going to hit the elite up to fund. I find when you have the right motivation, rubbing elbows isn’t so bad.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Joshua. Ms. Gataki has spoken so highly of you.”
“It’s nice to meet you as well. Can you tell me more about what you guys do here?”
“I can show you better than I can tell you. Follow me.”
I spend the next two hours in awe. This is a place for young adults who have nothing and no one. Girls who have become pregnant and have been disowned. Young girls who no one wants to give a shot.
My bullshit seems so small against all they’re facing. Some of them just need a place to hang to stay out of trouble. However, the resources are running low and the staffing sucks.
I’ve stepped in when asked. The best part was getting to hold a newborn who had just made it here after being released with his mom. I didn’t worry about my scars as I took my shirt off and placed him on my chest. Knowing I could help the exhausted sixteen-year-old trumped my own shit.
“Humanity,” Zoe murmurs with a smile in her voice.
“What’s that?” I whisper, not wanting to wake the little guy.
“Humanity, it’s what your father has never had. Your mother was too good for him. Doing what’s necessary is one thing. Becoming a tyrant is another. Basil and your nonos Blake walk the right side of the line because they’ve kept their humanity.
“Not to mention, charity is always a way to work a room and be at the center of the right conversations. The money will come to you. One, maybe two charities of your own will be great to start with.”
“Wait, I thought we were going to raise money for this place. What are you talking about?”
“I see your heart, Joshua. You are your mother’s son. Trust me, you will feel better once this is done. And sitting on the board will be a gift. The wives will become curious.”
“So we’re after the wives of Bridge Lake?” I say and lift a brow.
“And Vander. They are the real power. Just like you listened to these kids today, you will listen to every woman. Hear her, show her you hear her and I promise you will have your father by the throat.”
“I’m all ears.”
* * *
Zoe was right. I’m on a high from helping out. I want to do more. For the first time, I’m thinking of more than myself and how things affect me.
My mind goes to Shawna as I ride in the back of the car, heading to see Achilles. I wish I would have asked for her number. I’d love to talk to her about this. I already sent Skittles a text. She wants to know how she can help.
“I don’t know what I want to do yet,” I mutter out loud as I return her text.
I plan to start a charity like Zoe suggested, but I don’t know who needs my help most. I want to do something meaningful. Something that will make a real impact.
Skittles: I’m here when you decide. I’d love to go to that place though. I’m all for helping the kids.