Page 130 of Revenge

“What happened? I thought everything was on the up and up with your job.”

“So did I. But the new supervisor had it in for me, Pumpkin. He nitpicked everything I did. Wrote me up even if I was one minute late.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” There’s silence. I know what’s coming, but I hope I’m wrong. I hope he’s just calling to see how I’m doing. “Dad, is everything okay?”

“I hate to bother you with these things, Pumpkin. But I just don’t know what to do and don’t really have anyone to ask. I’m hoping that with you working and that Manarch boy of yours, you might be able to help your dear old man.”

There it is.

Because of who he is, I’d decided not to tell him I own House of Beauty. He thinks I just work there. But as I listen to his words, I’m surprised that he’s asking me for money, even though I shouldn’t be. I don’t know what I expected. The man didn’t even bother to ask about his grandson before asking for money. At the end of the day, he only cares about himself, and I’m a sucker for wanting to help him.

“What do you need?” I finally ask.

“Some of the bills are overdue, and there isn’t even a loaf of bread in the house.”

I guess he’s lucky to have a roof over his head since I pay his rent, not that he acknowledges it.

He continues, “I know it might be a lot to ask for, but if I can get a thousand dollars, I know I can settle all the bills and have some leftover money while I look for another job.”

I close my eyes, trying to surrender myself to the reality of my father. He will never change. I bet he lost his job because of gambling and is looking for more money to continue playing.

“If you’re worried it’s for gambling, I swear I haven’t gambled since you left,” he adds.

I want to believe him. I always want to believe him, but in the pit of my stomach, I know he’s lying. My dad will never change, and I need to accept it.

“Why don’t you come to the house?” I suggest. “It would be nice to spend some time together as a family. You’ve only seen your grandson a handful of times. I’d hate for him not to get to know you or for you not to get to know him.”

“That’s a great idea. You’re such a great daughter, Pumpkin. I wouldn’t know what to do without you.”

Neither do I, I wish I could say. Instead, I force a smile into my voice. “If you could come before six, you can join us for dinner.”

“Do you think you can send a car for me? I don’t really have the funds to go into the city.”

“Of course. What time works best for you?” He’s quiet for a moment. At first, I think the call has dropped, but I hear a noise in the background. “Dad, are you still there?”

“Yes, sorry. If you can send the car about four this afternoon, that will work.”

“Okay. I’ll send you a text when the car is close.”

“Thank you, Pumpkin. I’ll see you soon. Love you.”

“Love you too, Dad.” I end the call with a strange feeling that I’m missing something. He’s not telling me the whole truth.

I don’t want to read too much into it, but he’s never called me Pumpkin so many times. I can’t ignore the fact he’s kept his distance from the kids and me. But then again, it can’t be easy dealing with a man like Viktor, who’s threatened Dad’s life multiple times in the past. I’m just disappointed Dad hasn’t tried to see Niko or me. After all, I am his daughter. I set my cell down and make my way to the kitchen. No point in dwelling on the past or what he’s not done. At least Niko gets to see his grandfather today, and I can get a better read on Dad. It’s obvious he’s hiding something. I’m just worried about what it might be. The last time he hid something my life was turned upside down.

My cell beeps, letting me know my dad is on his way. I go to the kitchen to check on dinner. I figured we could have dinner early, so we can eat and enjoy Dad’s visit. I haven’t told Viktor that he’s coming. So it should be interesting once I do. Viktor doesn’t care much for Dad. He always says the man is nothing but bad news. I think deep down, he wishes I wouldn’t have any relationship with my dad.

“Something smells good,” I say to the chef.

“Thank you. I’m making lasagna.”

“That sounds delicious and perfect. Can’t remember the last time I had it. Can I help you with anything?” I ask.

“I’m all set, Ms. O’Brien. Did you want something to snack on?”

“No, I’m good.”

“Let me know if you change your mind.”

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