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“Then why’d you, do it?”
“I wanted to give him a second chance, I guess.”
This is the man that I thought was an asshole just a few weeks ago. And now to learn we want the same thing, for my father to get his life together. This also helps me to see how my pushing probably only made the situation worse.
All this while, I thought Jeff was selfish and now I think it’s time to get my father some help. I look over at Tristano. "Thanks for revealing that about him."
"You're welcome. Has it changed how you see me?"
"A lot has.”
He sits back in his chair and smiles. “Like what?”
“I know you have nothing to do with Jeff’s gambling habit. And I read you all wrong."
He heaves a long sigh and grins. "Do you think it’s possible to start over again?"
"Sure, if you’ll forgive me for being a brat.”
“You weren’t a brat, just concerned for your father.” He chuckles. “But there’s nothing to forgive. Jeff’s fortunate to have you in his life.”
“Thank you.” I twist in my seat under the scrutiny of his gaze. It’s time to change the subject. “Huh… Do you always help women in distress?”
"Why would I want to do that? I helped you because you're my best friend's daughter. Even though he owes me, I won't let anyone hurt you.”
A wave of disappointment hit me when he says that. To think he sees me as Jeff's daughter when I fantasize about tasting his lips.
"So, you're helping me because I'm just like a…nieceto you?"
He looks away as if he's not comfortable with the question. "No, I don't see you as a niece.”
“A daughter?” I push.
“No. I'm not as old as your father. I'm just thirty-seven."
"It's good to know you'rewayyounger than my dad."
I know I’m pushing this conversation beyond the point of return when his eyes glow with desire. He leans forward peering into my eyes. "Why do you care so much about that?"
I raise the cool water to my lips, trying to hide my shyness and articulate my thoughts. The last thing I want is to reveal my feelings when I'm not certain he feels the same.
"I’m just curious. What about the hotel? Is there something you can do to help?"
"I can't give it back until he clears his debt. We had an agreement, and I don't fuck around when it comes to my business."
His words affirm my current state. I’m a friend’s daughter, and I need eight hundred thousand dollars or move on.
"I’ll take care of this.” I motion to our containers. “It’s the least I can do.”
“You don’t have to.” He stands but doesn’t move.
“I insist. Good night, Tristano."
Hours later,I find it difficult to sleep after what Tristano told me. All these years, I held on to the thought that he caused Jeff to fall down this rabbit hole of debt. It seems like only Jeff’s to blame, and only Jeff can fix it. And with this truth, it’s like the final barrier between Tristano and I disappeared.
The state of our proximity—with only a single wall separating our rooms—has me considering whether to make the next move. I press my eyes shut, forcing my brain to think of anything buthim,and a lusty moan breaks the silence.
My eyes pop open. Curious, I push myself off the bed and get up, wondering if my ears are playing tricks on me.
