Lionel’s POVI am frozen at the question.I am completely caught off guard. I had not expected this direct confrontation. I am not ready for it.“I don’t-I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I stutter out. ‘Idiot,’ I think to myself.Joseph is unrelenting. “Don’t pull that bullshit with me! It’s
I continue, now geared up. “During our first meeting, I saw that bastard ready to attack. She did not scream. She just used her own body to protect Patti, no matter the cost to her.”At the time I had already considered her brave. It was admirable that someone would do anything to protect their chil
Third Person POVVera and Patti have been vibrating with excitement.Or at least Patti felt that way. On the surface, Vera’s energy was calmer. But Patti had gotten better at reading Vera.Vera imitated their dad a lot. Her face as cold as his. The same daring brown eyes.But Vera had her tells. The
Patti said, “But both of you are our parents. Parents who wear diamond rings every day are loving couples who never separate.”Lionel had nothing to say against that. “I’ll think about it.” Lionel conceded.Patti saw that she could not push him any further. So she dropped it. She could add this to h
Nan’s POVBirthdays are not worth celebrating.At least, that is what I had felt about my own. Always working and only being able to afford medicine left little money for celebrations. Not that I cared about it.But this birthday…just might change my perspective. Most of the daily staff have been re
Patti skips the table, pulling Vera along. Lionel follows them, carrying the cake with care despite his earlier criticism. The atmosphere is relaxed and happy.I try hard not to look at Lionel. I scold myself for noticing that he no longer chooses the chair closest to me, or the one that faces me. I
Nan’s POVI had never been to a cocktail party.It had been a week since my birthday dinner. Things were good, but a certain event had popped up. Lionel was obligated to attend a cocktail party a business associate was hosting.He had pleaded with me. “Come on, Nan, I need a plus one. Don’t leave me
But then Lionel comes across the business associate who invited him. “Lionel, it’s a pleasure to see you.” The man’s voice is deep, slow but cultured.“Thompson, it’s a pleasure to see you too.” There is a sincere quality to Lionel’s statement. I am surprised.“I hate to rush you straight away, but