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“Yeah, she’s asking questions, and I’m able to share some things, but I’m trying to be careful. She’s been working with a psychiatrist for the last few years, Alida. I’ve talked to her with Brie once. I will again if needed.”
“Son, I’m not sure this is a good idea. You were approached by the NFL; you have your entire life ahead. If you dive back into the emotional trenches, it could really mess with your head.”
The hair on my arms bristled. I wasn’t expecting Dad’s reaction.
“I’m aware. I’ve thought about it, but there’s a lot you don’t know about those years. I was the one that helped Brie escape, but she was also my girlfriend. We were in love. The plan was to run and build a new life together. The plan got fucked up, and I sacrificed myself in order for her to leave. Brie was supposed to bring the cops so they could raid the compound and free everyone.” I stared at my feet, the pain still stabbing me in the chest. “It didn’t happen because she got hurt, and her amnesia kicked in.”
Dad massaged the back of his neck as his lips pursed. “What I’m hearing from you is that you’ve been in love with this girl most of your life?”
“Yeah. And now she’s back, and she doesn’t have any memories, but she wants to be with me, too. We’re together, working through shit with a therapist.” I held my dad’s gaze, refusing to back down. As much as I respected him, nothing would change what Brie and I had.
His forehead creased, his telltale sign that he was thinking. “Does your mother know?”
I shook my head. “Not yet. I wanted to talk to you first. I think Mom will want to take Brie under her wing, make sure she has what she needs.”
Dad’s low chuckle filled the room. “Okay. You’ve said what you needed to. It’s clear that your mind is made up, so how can I help? I realize you’re grown, but you’ll never stop being my son. I can’t speak for your mom, but you and Brie have my full support.”
Staring at the floor, I wiped the moisture that had pooled in my eyes. How had I gotten so lucky with Mom and Dad? Right then, I promised myself that I would make them proud.
“Just get to know her and give her a chance. She’s smart, beautiful, and has a big heart. Dad, she’s a fighter. We’ll get through this.”
Dad nodded. “I’ve seen firsthand that, when you set your mind to do something, nothing stops you. I trust that when you need us, you’ll let me know.”
“I promise.”
ChapterForty
Brie
“Thank you for the tour of your incredible home,” I said to Mrs. Cooper as we returned to the foyer.
“You’re welcome to visit anytime. Why don’t we find the men?”
The door swung open, and a cute strawberry-blonde-haired girl strolled in. She frowned, her brown eyes assessing me. “Who are you?”
“Alexandria, that is no way to speak to our guest.”
“Sorry,” Alexandria muttered, flipping her hair behind her shoulder. “I’m Alexandria, Kane’s sister.”
I tried to disguise my surprise but failed miserably.
Alexandria’s gaze narrowed. “He didn’t tell you about me, did he?”
“Well, we haven’t talked much about family yet. I know your mom because I’m renting my house from your parents.” I placed my hand next to my mouth and leaned closer to her. “Kane hasn’t even met my parents yet. Try not to be upset with him.”
Alexandria’s brows shot up. “Oh, you’re hisgirlfriend? Kane has a girlfriend? He’s never, ever brought a girl here for us to meet before.”
I was pretty sure my heart melted right out of my chest and created a puddle at my feet. Kane had said he hadn’t been in any serious relationships since leaving the cult, but I hadn’t realized that he hadn’t introduced any girls to his parents.
Mrs. Cooper slipped her arm around my shoulders. “Alexandria, do you have homework to finish before dinner?”
Alexandria’s expression fell. “Yeah. I’ll get it done.”
“Thank you.” Mrs. Cooper gave her a warning look, and I fought to suppress my giggle.
Once Alexandria was out of earshot, I asked, “How old is she?”
“Thirteen going on thirty. That girl has more attitude than any other child I’ve met in my life.” Mrs. Cooper laughed. “Honestly, she’s smart, funny, and is a great kid. She’s just a teenager.”
