Page 48 of Girl Like Me

“Because I want in with our uncle but he doesn’t want me because I’m not blood. I have ideas that could see me take over for dad and our uncle, making me the richest and most powerful.”

Before Carter can say anything else, Dad comes around the corner, spotting us sitting at the island. “Good morning. It’s nice to see you two together again.” he says as I frown in confusion. Together again, what does that mean?

“Morning Dad. We were just catching up before I head off to school,” Carter says, standing and putting his bowl on the sink. “I’ll see you at school sister,” he winks at me and walks off.

My father flicks back on the coffee machine and turns to me while he waits.

“I called the principal this morning and he has agreed that your friends can come.”

“Are you serious? That's amazing.” I jump from my chair and give him a hug. For the first time since I have been back it feels like home. He pulls back and smiles.

“I have missed you,” he says, kissing the top of my head.

“So Carter just told me that he’s my step brother,” I say but it comes out as more of a question. I refuse to mention the marriage part. It will never happen, so it isn't worth the conversation.

“Yes, I guess he is. I didn’t keep that from you on purpose. Carter is my son even if he isn’t biologically mine and I love him as if he is my own. It just never crossed my mind.”

“I get it but it would have helped me with a sense of my identity. I feel so disconnected from my life as Bristol. The only part I actually connect with is my uncle’s and I don’t know why it feels that way. Every connection at school feels forced except with Chloe, but we weren’t friends before my accident.”

“Maybe it’s because Milo was close to my brother. You two spent a lot of time together, so I think deep down you’re still holding onto that.”

“I suppose you’re right, I’m just so scared that I’ll get my memories back and forget all of the new friends I’ve made. I don’t want to go back to being that person. I can feel it here,” I say pointing at my heart, “that that’s not who I really am.”

“I will let you in on a little secret. You have always been this girl. The girl who wears the mask at school and social events wasn’t really you. It was a way for you to connect with your mother and fit into that world. With me, your uncle, Milo and even that small-time gang banger, you have always been sweet and caring. I’m very confident that you will be fine.”

“Thanks dad, I really appreciate that. I should get to school before Carter comes looking for me.”

He smiles and waves me off as I head to the garage, dreading what my day at school will be like.

***

The day drags on and I’m so ready for it to be over. I sent a text to the guys that I want to do a group call at lunch time. When the bell rings at the end of class, I send Chloe a text that I’ll be a few minutes late to lunch. I make my way to the back of the science building, a few stoners hide here to smoke but other than that it's quiet and perfect for what I need to do.

I hit dial on our group chat and all my guys' faces come up on the screen smiling widely at me. I smile back in awe at how damn handsome they all are. How the hell did I manage to get this lucky?

“Hey good lookin’, what’s been cooking.”

I laugh at Rocky. “I wanted to ask you all something but I understand if you can’t. It’s late…”

“Just ask JD, you know we would do anything for you,” Mercer says.

“My formal is on Saturday night and my father just got you all an invite. I mean if you wanted to come.”

“Of course we want to come,” Rory answers for the whole group as all of my other guys nod their heads.

“But what about tux’s? This is going to be fancy.”

“Honestly, we already have them for ours, but we decided not to go.” Levi replies.

“And my dad was so upset when we had told him we weren’t going. He is going to lose his mind when he finds out.”

“Should we invite your parents to watch us walk down the red carpet? I know it’s a really long way but I’m sure I could get them all a room somewhere. My father keeps pushing for me to spend his money.”

They go to protest but Rory beats them to it. “Stop trying to argue about money. Her father would be offended if she didn’t spend it. It’s just how it works. We will get them there if you can organise the rooms.”

“You just try and keep my dad away. I hope you’re ready for the steam train Carson.” Mercer says and the guys laugh.

“Do you think he would want to help me get ready?”

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