Total pages in book: 138
Estimated words: 133688 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 668(@200wpm)___ 535(@250wpm)___ 446(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 133688 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 668(@200wpm)___ 535(@250wpm)___ 446(@300wpm)
I narrow my eyes at her. “I’m not in the mood.”
She chuckles. “Tonight, I give you permission to have all the D in all the right places. You need something to loosen those muscles so you chill the hell out. Seriously though, you look like someone just told you Christmas is canceled this year.”
The thought of getting to spend the holidays with Noah makes me smile.
“Okay, well maybe you aren’t dead inside.” Missy gives me a wink before leaving me to my Cheetos and beef jerky.
By the time my shift is over, I’m emotionally exhausted. I texted Noah and gave him a short summary of my day. Of course, he was concerned, and I promised him I’d explain everything later tonight. I’ve replayed what happened at the deli at least a thousand times and can’t seem to shake how Brittany acted. It’s easy to blame jealousy, but I think it’s because I struck a deep nerve. If I had to guess, I’d say the money has motivated her, and Loretta has a lot of it.
When I arrive at my parents', Owen throws a fit and asks to stay, and my mother doesn’t help either. Considering I don’t feel like arguing, I cave, kiss him good night, and make my way home. As soon as I’m inside, I make a grilled cheese, then grab a giant bag of chips and some bean dip. Since Owen’s not home, I’m not cooking a full-blown meal.
I sit on the couch, pick up my phone, and text Noah between bites.
Katie: Owen’s staying at my parents'.
Noah: Is that an invitation?
I chuckle.
Katie: Doctor's orders were for you not to have any physical activity for two weeks.
He sends over an eye roll emoji.
Noah: So what you’re saying is instead of calling and telling me about what happened today, you’re gonna come over?
Katie: I’d be lying if I said the thought hadn’t crossed my mind.
Noah: Perfect. I’ll be waiting for you then. Text me when you leave and make it sooner rather than later.
My cheeks heat as I finish eating. I hadn’t planned on seeing him in person tonight, but it’s a nice surprise. After I take a shower, I change into some comfortable clothes. Before I leave, my phone rings.
When I see it’s Loretta, I’m tempted to reject the call, but considering I’ve been in a mood all day, I answer.
“Katie. My God, I can’t believe you answered,” she says with an edge to her tone. “We need to talk. The way you’ve been ignoring me is upsetting, and I miss my grandson. I don’t thi–”
“Loretta. I’m not letting Owen see you until you explain what the hell is going on. I’m not stupid and wasn’t born yesterday. Right now, I’ve lost my trust in you, and I don’t want him around you. Something strange is going on, and I need the truth.”
I hear her suck in a deep breath. “The truth about what exactly?”
“The twenty thousand you withdrew from the bank,” I snap, hoping she’ll tell start talking.
She hesitates. “What does that have to do with anything?”
“Because I want to hear it from your mouth, not anyone else's,” I admit, my adrenaline spiking and heart racing. I’ve never been this tough on Loretta and have mostly done whatever she’s asked because she’s been such a big help to me. But I can’t allow this suspicious activity to continue, especially if she’s responsible for Noah’s accident.
“Katie, I don’t think this is any of your business or concern, but if you’re going to keep my grandson from me over it, then you’re forcing me to explain,” she says.
I swallow hard. “Alright.”
“This is extremely personal, so I expect you to keep it to yourself, but Elliot has been gambling again. The tenth anniversary of Gabe’s death has hit him hard, and he’s out of control. If I didn’t withdraw the money, he would’ve spent it, and we don’t have a lot left in our savings. So I moved it and am keeping it hidden. He can’t find out about it. I didn’t want to involve you because I know you don’t like to lie and keep secrets,” she says.
My anger with her slightly melts away because I remember how bad Elliot’s addiction used to be. Even though he got help, I understand that certain events can trigger the need to feel those endorphins. After Gabe passed away, it was bad before it got better. I feel like a giant asshole for forcing her to tell me, but I’m also cynical. She knows I won’t be able to confirm her story without going to Elliot, and I would never do that.
Would she admit that she paid Brittany to set up Noah? No.
“I’m sorry to hear that,” I offer.
“I miss seeing Owen every week. I miss his laughter and eating cheeseburgers together on the weekends. Can you please reconsider?” she nearly begs, but I have to protect him at all costs.