“I’m getting a job, asshole!” I snap. “But I may need some help until I get one, don’t disown me!” I say, immediately regretting my words. I place my hands in prayer under my chin and frown.
“You don’t need his money,” Caine says.
“What’s the car situation?” Jack asks, wisely changing the subject.
“It’s done. She needs a new one.”
“What? When were you going to tell me?” My mouth’s hanging open. How long has he known this?
“No! Today has been all over the place. Between my dad, your mom, our stupid fight and now this… no! When was I supposed to tell you?” Caine asks. He shakes his head. “Don’t act like I kept this from you on purpose,” he adds, scowling at me.
“When did you learn of this news?” I ask, bowing my head and extending my hand.
Yes, I’m being condescending. He’s right, but I have residual annoyance.
“This morning,” Caine says. “Are you done?”
“Yes,” I say, letting out the last of my bitterness.
“Y’all are weird,” Jack says.
“Y’all?” I ask with a chuckle. “Are you acclimating to the home culture?”
“Don’t sass me!” Jack yells. Then he laughs. “Ah, that was fun! But anyway, yeah, so Mom is pissedoff.” He emphasizesoff.
“Not Mikayla’s problem,” Caine says. “I heard the entire conversation. Mikayla doesn’t need to call her or speak to her if she doesn’t want to. End of discussion.”
The finality of his words, his complete and utter defense of me, makes my chest ache. So much so, I have to rub the space over my heart. My head spins a little. I even feel a little warm.
“You feelin’ alright, sweetheart?”
I nod.
“So that’s it with you and Mom?” Jack asks softly.
“I don’t see how we canhave a relationship, Jack,” I tell him sadly.
“That means I have to deal with her alone?” he asks, but not with resentment. It’s almost fear.
“You don’t have to deal with her at all. Frankly, that woman is toxic, and neither of you should be forced to take her on,” Caine says. “Really, Jack. You’re not asking me, but after the way she spoke to Mikayla, why would you want a relationship with her? What kind of relationship do you have?”
“The kind where she makes him feel guilty, and he has to take care of her.” I roll my eyes. Hard.
“When can I visit?” Jack asks, changing the subject again.
“Whenever you want.” I shrug.
“Is that okay with Caine?” Jack asks. I can’t tell if he’s being a dick or not.
“The only person who I won’t welcome in my home is your mother,” Caine says. His voice is firm. “I won’t welcome someone into my home whose motivation is to hurt you.”
I’m fighting against myself. I’m not ready to say what I’m feeling. I’m not ready to feel what I’m feeling. I’m terrified. And I know he feels it too. I know he’s scared. Fuck, he knows I’m terrified.
I never loved Cody; I never really lusted after him either. The moment I met Caine, I was instantly attracted to him. I think a person would have to be dead not to be. The man is gorgeous. And at first, that was all this was, a crazy attraction. But it’s not that anymore.
“Fine, then I’m coming next week,” Jack says.
“Why do you say that like that? Like it’s a threat?”
