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“Careful, Stratton, or I’ll have to assume you’re in love with me.”
Because I’m in love with you and Ronan and He Who Shall Not Be Named…
Violet and Miller left, and I sat back down heavily in my seat in front of the dying fire.
Ronan and Shiloh were talking privately—but I felt their eyes on me—then he left her to stand in front of me, feet planted, arms crossed.
“Do you practice glowering in front of a mirror? Because…” I made a circle with my thumb and forefinger and clucked my tongue. “Nailed it.”
“What’s the plan, Parish?”
“To finish this drink, watch the sunset, and then go home.”
“And after that?”
“Gay Paree, my friend.” I tilted my flask. “I intend to make sure it lives up to its name.”
“When?
“As soon as my payout comes in. Any day now.”
Ronan drew his hand down his lips and squatted on his heels. “Don’t do anything stupid, okay?”
I put my hand to my chest, affronted. “Moi?”
“I’m fucking serious,” Ronan said, his voice low and dangerous. But not to me. He’d destroy anyone who hurt me, God love him. But big, tough Ronan was helpless against my demons too.
I patted his hand. “I’m going to be okay. I promise. I’ll be free.”
“And River?”
“He’ll be fine too. Trust me.”
Ronan studied me with flat gray eyes, then sighed and got to his feet. “I’ll see you before you go?”
No chance. I could only say goodbye to him now if I pretended it wasn’t goodbye.
“Absolutely.”
Ronan nodded and joined Shiloh. She smiled gently and waved. I held up my flask and watched my best friend disappear around the huge boulder that gave the Shack its protection from the outside world.
I sat for a long while after. The sun was a burning sliver sinking into the deep when my phone rang, jarring the perfect quiet. I fished it out of my pocket to read an international number.
“Hello?”
“Holden Parish?” asked a thick French accent. “This is Monsieur Bernard.”
“Bernie. How’ve you been, old chap? I hope you’re calling with good news.”
“Indeed.” He sniffed. “I have received proof of your graduation from Central High School in Santa Cruz and informed your parents. Mr. and Mrs. Parish have, as per the agreement, released your inheritance to you.”
“And?”
“And…?”
Did they ask about me? Do they send their regards? Are they proud…?
“What else?”
