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He spun the chair, the dark circles more prominent as he faced me.
“Did you bother to brush your hair today, Fayette?”
“I didn’t think it mattered, truthfully. Am I going somewhere? Are you letting me leave?”
One of his eyebrows rose in an all-too telling answer. “Grooming is essential despite the circumstances. Remember that. Plans can change by the second. You must always be prepared for the unexpected. In this life, we’re ready for anything. You should already know this. It’s basic common sense.”
“I’ve never been kidnapped before. I guess I must have ‘proper etiquette during a crisis’ missing from my brain. It’s there now. I’ll remember next time.”
He wheeled closer, his head slightly askew. I watched as the hard expression slowly melted. “You’re so much like George. I won’t lie, it feels good to have him back. Even if a little.”
At the mere mention of my dad’s name, I felt my chest tighten. This man. He was somehow familiar. I wasn’t sure how, but something was starting to shift inside me concerning him. Maybe it was watching him and my dad nonstop on video for hours, but…I felt a part of me knew him. Or was beginning to. “I really want to go home, Master Carmelo. Do you understand? This isn’t my house. I don’t see my parents here. I don’t feel them.”
“You do. You’re looking at a part of George right now. You feel that. You saw it for yourself. He and I were inseparable.”
“Maybe so, but I can’t stay locked in a room forever. Please, just let me go to my parents. You can monitor me from there. I won’t run. I won’t leave town. I just need…” I stopped, scanning his face as the expressions changed. “I need—”
“More of their presence. I know what you need, and you shall have it soon. I was told you’re requesting books.”
Books? Of course he wouldn’t budge and change his mind on me leaving. He sure didn’t seem to want to elaborate either. “Yes. I’ve read the others I was given. I was hoping to get more.”
“Take your pick. If you have something in mind and can’t find it here, let Thomas know. He will get it for you.”
My pause had his hand lifting for me to continue.
“Thank you, Master Carmelo. I was wondering, if you won’t let me leave, can I at least go see my parents?”
Parker swept through the door heading towards us. His confusion told me he wasn’t aware I’d be here.
“I’ve been under the weather the last few days. We will pay our respects soon. I know this is hard for you, but have patience, child. I haven’t forgotten. I never forget anything. I’m sure Aimon’s vented his hate for me and told you all about that.”
Slowly, I nodded. Parker came up next to the chair, whispering something in Master Carmelo’s ear before he stood again.
“I have to go. You’ll have more connection with your parents soon. Go ahead and take as many books as you want.” He went to leave, stopping as his gaze softened. “You see that top shelf over there?” At his wave, I nodded. “Those are books on cars: types, brands, manuals. All sorts of stuff I know nothing about. Grab a few of those for Aimon. They used to be his favorite.”
“Thank you. I will.”
Thomas headed closer as Parker and Aimon’s grandfather left. As I looked through the large room, I headed to Aimon’s area. I wasn’t sure where to start for myself, but I could at least begin to find some for him. As I did, I let my mind try to decipher Master Carmelo’s words. He knew what I needed, and I’d have it soon.
One.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five.
I handed the books to Thomas, who stood patiently next to me. As odd as it was, there was a comfort in having the man close. My father talked about him on occasion. They had to have been close on some level. Now Thomas was the only one I really talked to besides Aimon. He was there for me. Always waiting if I needed the smallest thing. And he loved my father. They all loved him. They knew him, almost as good as I did. Or did they know him better? It’s like we all knew two different versions of him. The father, and the friend.
“The books you requested are over there.”
“Thomas?”
“Yes, Fayette?”
“How long did you know my father?”
