Page 47 of Unstable

“About what?”

“If he never gave a shit about me, why’s he been so good at helping with my mom’s affairs, her Will and stuff? Just the other day I saw him at the store and he told me he’d taken care of paying the mortgage on this place for the month. That’s pretty thoughtful for someone who didn’t think very much of me. You think it’s guilt?”

He frowns, his lips pressed so tightly together they blanch in color. And then, he speaks in a voice of pure stone. “No, I don’t think he’s capable of feeling guilt.”

“Me either,” I nod. “So weird, right?”

“Yeah, weird,” he rubs a hand over his jaw. “You got everything squared away, all signed?”

I dip my head and brace for the upcoming lecture. “Not yet. I’ve been busy, but I’ll go by soon. He didn’t have it all ready the first day I went in to see him, and I haven’t had a chance to go back.”

“I’m not gonna gripe at ya, but I need you to look at me, Hen.” It’s strained, his tone pulled taut between trying to stay calm and barely managing not to scold me, which is precisely what he wants to do.

I glance up at him and almost laugh at his desperate, horribly failing attempt at a smile.

“Don’t go see Merrick yet, and damn sure don’t go without me. Promise me, Hen,” he pleads.

“Why? Keaton, I’m not naïve or stupid. I saw the picture of Krista in his office and didn’t buy a word of his ‘always loved me, never cheated’ speech. It’s just business now, I don’t care about the rest. I can handle it.” I cross my arms over my chest in defensive mode.

“I know you can, but I’m asking that you don’t. Just, please, trust me on this and wait until we can go together.” He reaches out and takes my hand. “Promise me.”

“Whatever,” I sigh. “You’re overreacting, but it’s fine. Makes no difference to me, I guess. If you’re dying to come with me, suit yourself.”

“Holy shit!” He whoops and slaps his leg.

“What?” I look at him like he’s crazy.

“Henley Gene Calvert just let me have my way, and pretty easily too. Never thought I’d see the day.” He stands, chuckling softly to himself. “I’m gonna leave while I’m on a roll. It’s late anyway. Come lock your door behind me, Darlin’.”

I stand in place long after he’s left and I’ve locked up, reviewing everything in my head. I end up at the same, simple thought I always do, but this time…a smile hints at the corner of my mouth when I think it.

Keaton Fucking Cash.

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