Page 133 of Ice Rebel

“He wouldn’t say. Ford is driving and we’re on our way. I will tell you this. He didn’t sound like himself. Samantha is on her way.”

Jesus.

He’d done everything he could to push off the decision, including going to the city council, who had forced a meeting with the owner. With the away games, I’d yet to talk to him.

In truth, I’d been a terrible son. I’d known having a single conversation would further enrage me.

And make me think about Chelsea.

The last thing I needed.

“I’m headed there now.”

To find what? That my entire childhood was about to be destroyed?

CHAPTER 27

Cole

“What the hell is going on?” I found Samantha in our parents’ kitchen all by herself. I’d broken every speed limit getting here.

“I have no clue. I was hoping you knew.”

“No. Dad just said I needed to come to the house pronto. Where are they?”

“Outside on the deck and don’t bother,” she said. “They told me to wait inside until Ford and Beck arrived.”

I ripped off my jacket, frustrated as hell. During the trip I’d thought of all horrific possibilities. None of which had good outcomes. “It’s freezing outside.”

My sister glared at me. “Mom is bundled up and Dad is a wolf. He loves the cold. You know that.” She poured me a whiskey, which meant she was as nervous as I was. She was already nursing one or maybe she’d gulped a couple before.

“I guess we both need a drink.”

“Take a look at the brochures on the table.”

I followed her line of sight, curious what she’d seen. When I picked up the first brochure, I half laughed. “A brochure on Italy?”

“Apparently, they are planning on traveling.”

A cold chill drifted through me. “You know what that means.”

Samantha nodded. “Yeah. The sale went through.”

Why was it that she didn’t seem either surprised or that concerned? Shock?

There were several brochures, as if they’d been planning for a long time. “I don’t even know what to say.”

“I’m curious. Have you spoken with Chelsea lately?”

Why did I hear a strange tone in her voice? With the brochure still in hand, I shifted so I could look at her. Definitely a smug look. “No, I have not and you know the reason. Why?”

“Because you two are meant to be together. That’s why.”

“You’re the second person to tell me that today. Plus, Jagger has been acting weird the past couple of days. What is going on?”

“I don’t know. That’s why I’m asking you.” She brought the glass to her lips, licking the rim.

“Bullshit.”