Page 140 of The Way We Collide

“The consensus is I’m not so average anymore,” I joke.

“Raven’s a hero.” Liv pulls up the TMI story on her phone. “I still don’t understand why they use so many exclamation points.”

My father sniffs at the screen. “It does seem to be shouting at us.”

“I’d say that’s something to shout about.” Hendrix puts hisarm around my waist and gives me a squeeze. The warmth of him at my back eases my tension.

“The station manager where I work needed my help using this new software. She couldn’t find our chief meteorologist to help her.”

“Did the weather have something to do with the crash?” My father is confused.

“The weather doesn’t actually change all that much in LA, so we also cover traffic and do special reports, things like that,” I explain.

“Well, that’s very good. I’m proud of you.”

He gives me a warm smile, and an unexpected knot clogs my throat. What in the world? I am not about to cry over this.

“Thank you,” I manage. “If you’ll excuse me a minute.”

Turning away, I start for the guest cottage when he calls after me. “Raven, I’d like to speak with you. Alone.”

I stop walking, and my eyes fly to Hendrix, who’s watching the entire situation like a hawk. My eyes sweep over the party, searching for an excuse.

All the guests have returned to eating cake. Liv has Gigi in the bounce house, holding her fingers as she bends her knees and tries to jump. Mimi and Dylan are fighting over who gets to hold a squirmy Haddy.

Craig is suggesting he and Garrett don wigs and mermaid costumes and turn this into a dance party. Kimmie slides into the ball pit, and Clint is taking pictures nonstop.

Everything’s under control except my emotions.

Hendrix walks up beside me, taking my hand. “Want me to stick around?”

Pressing my lips together, I’m inclined to say yes. Instead, I give his hand a squeeze. “Keep an eye on things. I’ll be right back.”

I lead my father down the flagstone path to where a wooden platform faces the bay. A large bougainvillea-lined arch stands over a wrought-iron bench.

“This is a lovely spot.” Dad looks out at the water. “Seems like a nice group of people here.”

“The Bradfords are wonderful. They build each other up, and they take care of their family.”

His eyes slide to mine, and he clears his throat. “I wasn’t happy with the way your last visit went. Then Amelia showed me a video of Lawrence saying terrible things to you outside the Peach Pit. I didn’t like what I heard.”

“Did you know Mom set up the trust the way she did with him in mind?” My tone is pointed.

“I know your mother thought you and Lawrence made a good match.”

“Because he demeaned and insulted me my entire life the same way she always did?”

“Because she loved you very much. She came from nothing, and she never wanted you to know that kind of life.”

“She was cruel, and you never said a word.” My throat aches, and a wobble is in my voice. “You could’ve protected me, and you didn’t.”

“I didn’t think you needed protection.” His voice changes. “You were always quick to speak your mind.”

“I was a child.” My eyes are wide as I look up at him. “I was hurting. You have no idea what it’s like…” Shaking my head, I turn away, doing my best to calm my breathing. “I spent so many years getting over what happened in that house. I’m not about to pretend you were there for me when you weren’t.”

My chest hurts, and I start to leave. His voice stops me.

“You’re right.” It’s a somber tone. “When I heard the things Lawrence said to you, I was furious. I spoke to Thurman about it, and he has spoken to his son. I expect you will receive a formal apology from him—whether you choose to accept it or not is up to you.”

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