Hmmmm, the voice hums curiously.
The weight I associated with their presence lessens from the back of my mind, though the tension in the room remains so I know they haven’t gone far.
I watch closely as Julia’s shoulders tense before she swats at the empty air around her ear as if she’s shooing away a pest. My brow raises high on my forehead, even more amazed by the woman.
Frustrating old bat,the voice mumbles as they settle back in.
I want to ask more for follow-up, curious what they were doing, but know I won’t get an answer. After all this time, they still don’t share their plans with me.
“I was thinking a book might boost his mood since he can’t exactly get out and do anything right now. But, I sadly don’t know what he likes to read.” Remorse briefly crosses her face, and I know there’s more hidden there than she lets anyone see; especially Rami.
“That’s very kind.” I think I manage to keep the shock out of my tone because everything I’ve heard from Rami is that she’s an awful human being to him. Something tells me that’s not at all true.
I wonder if I should tell him about all of this.
Don’t,the voice shouts, and makes me jerk in response.
Julia eyes me suspiciously, taking a small step further away from me.
We are his safe landing space. If you correct the curated image of his grandmother, we’ll be left with nothing. He won’t need us anymore.
Pressing my shoulders back, I stand up a pinch taller, even more curious than I was before. But also loving the idea of Rami being mine.
Ours.
Clearing my throat, I shake myself out of the mild stupor and lead Julia through the store. “He prefers dark fantasy graphic novels, but reads a wide variety of things. Basically, anything that piques his interest.”
She nods and follows me dutifully while I point out a few books I know he likes or series he’s been eyeing. With a subtle bow, I leave her to mull it over and decide as I return to the counter. No one likes a weirdo who hovers over their shoulder.
Almost ten minutes later, she approaches the counter with three books and I ring them up. I don’t bother giving her the discount I always give Rami. Honestly, I’d give the books to him for free. But she doesn’t need to know my intentions with her grandson.
“I’d appreciate it if you kept this visit a secret,” she mumbles, betraying the cold mask she previously had in place.
My brow raises high toward my hairline again. “Really? I think he’d enjoy knowing how you take care of him.” I’m not really sure why I share that little tidbit when I’m supposed to be helping push him into my arms.
Her cold fury returns with a tight pinching of her lips. “I will parent as I see fit to keep my grandson protected.” The stiffness in her words gives away that she’s not mucking about and will stand by them.
A smile curls my face unbidden, though I attempt to fight it back. “Yes, ma’am,” I say, bowing my head reverently.
Yup, I definitely like this woman.
Chapter 15
Rami's POV
Okay, so I know routine is supposed to be the balm to boredom. But monotony is like arsenic to my soul. After two weeks of schoolwork and Bible study during the day and then gardening each night with Adriel, I’m losing my shit. I’m clearly not one of those people that thrives on routine. That I’m more sure of now, than ever before.
Variety is the spice of life and all that jazz. Or something along those lines.
“You seem distracted today,” Adriel says, drawing me from my head.
“Huh?” I ask dumbly, sitting back on my heels and staring at him.
“That’s the second plant you’ve killed.” Adriel points to the small bundle of green leaves in my hand.
I drop it like I’ve been burned and cover the gasp with my dirt-covered hand. “Oh, shit, I’msosorry, Adriel.”
He dips his chin, being far too kind for my fuck up. “It is okay, but perhaps you would enjoy watching tonight instead of helping.”
