Page 23 of Finn

“Apologize.”

That surprised me. I opened the door, stepping back to let him in. He looked tired, the bruising on his face dark and angry-looking. He met my eyes, his brown-colored gaze much like my father’s.

For a moment, neither of us said anything. Then I waved my hand. “Come sit.”

He followed me to the living room, sitting on the sofa. He was clean, his hair brushed, and despite his injuries, he looked calm.

“I was a jerk. An asshole. I’m sorry.”

He sounded sincere. I nodded, letting him talk.

“I was in over my head. I broke all the rules, and you’re right. Finn could have done much worse. I’m sorry for what I did. For stealing your money.”

I indicated the backpack he had with him. “You can’t come back.”

“I know. But I wanted you to know I meant it. I’ll pay you back. I’ll figure it out.” He drew in a deep breath. “I was wondering if I could leave my backpack, though. Juan’s place is small, and I need this safe.” He glanced at me, then back at the bag.

“What’s in it?” I asked, suspicious.

He paused, then sighed. “Some of Dad’s old shirts and things. Some pictures. They’re all I have left, Una. I just want them safe. I’ll stick them in the closet so they won’t be in your way.”

Instantly, I felt awful.

“I didn’t know you had some of Dad’s things.”

“Stuff he had in his locker and car. They were things he touched every day, so they’re important.” He opened a zipper, showing me a photo of the three of us when he and I were young. It was faded and bent. “Like this.”

I traced the images, sentiment welling inside me. If this photo and whatever else meant something to him, he wasn’t lost. The man I knew he could be was in there somewhere. I handed it back to him. “Yes, you can.”

“Thanks. Just until I find a place of my own.”

I nodded, and he left the room, returning a moment later after putting the bag away.

“So, do I know this Juan?”

“No. I met him a few weeks ago on one of my jobs.”

“Ah.”

“He also does some side delivery gigs, and it gives him some extra cash. He’s gonna get me in, and I’ll give you that money.”

“Side deliveries?” I asked skeptically.

“Like DoorDash, but for businesses. He takes documents that need signing from one business to another—that sort of thing.”

“Oh.” It sounded innocent enough. “Nothing that will compromise your job with Finn?”

A look flashed over his face. One of annoyance—but it went quickly.

“No. Just a side gig so I can pay you back.”

There was silence for a moment. “All right,” I said quietly. “I would appreciate that.”

“I was scared and acted irrationally. I shouldn’t have hacked into your account. I thought I could handle it and I would make back what I lost.” He looked sad. “I didn’t want you to know and be upset with me.” He laughed ruefully. “I guess that didn’t work out so well. Now you hate me.”

“I don’t hate you,” I protested. “You’re my brother, and I love you.” I swallowed. “I’m just not sure I can trust you.”

“That’s fair. But you will again.” He smiled. “Maybe we could start with a cup of tea? I’ll make it.”