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I wiggled my fingers. “Hi.”
“Angel.” She set Dad’s hand gently back on the bed and rushed me.
We both burst out bawling.
When the snot plugged our noses to the point that we couldn’t breathe, Mom released me, leaving my shoulders damp from her tears.
I ran to my father and hugged him next. “Daddy!”
He smelled of medicine. His bones were thin and brittle. Normally rich, dark chocolate skin had turned sallow. But he was still my father. He was still my refuge. The person I could count on through thick and thin.
“I missed you so much,” I sobbed.
He ran his hand down my hair. “It’s okay, honey. Everything’s going to be alright.”
That wasn’t true.
I had feelings for the wrong man.
I owed that man far too much money.
Because of my debt, I couldn’t leave that man’s side.
“It’s all going to be okay,” Dad whispered.
And in that moment, against all odds, I knew he was right.
30
Angel
My parents refused to discuss Dad’s treatment or anything about his cancer. Instead, they plied me with questions about my summer job.
I answered as honestly as I could without admitting that I lived on a private island with my student and that I’d gotten naked with his father. Twice.
Things were going smoothly… until I let it slip that Reid was in the building.
“Reid is here?” Mom flapped her hand. “At this hospital? He’s getting checked up here?”
I slapped my mouth. Shoot. “Uh…”
“Invite him over,” Dad said. “I want to meet the young man getting tutored by the best teacher in Belize.”
My heart thumped.
If I invited Reid, that meant my parents would meet Deacon.
The thought was too horrifying to consider.
My folks would take one look at us and know. I’d been exposed enough last night. I didn’t need to bare all again today.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea. Besides, Dad, you must be tired.”
“I feel better than I have in a while,” he said, eyes glittering. His bright smile confirmed the statement.
“Let me text Reid’s father.” I pulled out my phone. “He might have left the hospital already.”
Mom peered over my shoulder.
