Page 107 of Forever Cursed

I’m already learning this important lesson. If I’d listened to her from the beginning, if I had given Malik some of his tasks back, would we be here today? Or would I feel so tired and at a loss? Would Chrissy be in the center of our feud? I can’t say for certain, but I can say that I’m learning.

“And that you make masterful plans,” I say with a smirk, which earns me one in return.

“My plans are foolproof, and you know it.”

“Sure, let’s go with that.”

She punches my arm playfully and is quick to flinch in response.

“I’m going to need to fatten you up,” she teases, and I laugh.

“I don’t doubt that you will. Especially if you stock our future fridge with that fancy Max yogurt.”

“Deal,” she responds with a wide smile.

The thought of us sharing a home one day makes my heart swell. I pull her in and kiss her like I haven’t touched her in years.

“I love you,” I whisper against her lips.

“And I love you.” She returns the sentiment, cementing my place in her life.

She collapses back against my chest, and we finish the movie. Chrissy is quick to fall asleep, and I’m about to close my eyes when my phone vibrates on the end table. Careful not to wake her, I reach for my phone and flip it over, surprised to see a text from my dad.

Sorry for not responding. I’m glad you’re doing okay, can’t wait to watch the first game of the season.

When I see his text, a weight is lifted from my shoulders. He’s alive, he’s okay, and for now, that’s all that matters.

Glad to hear you’re okay. Maybe I can see you soon?

Dad: That would be great. If you let me know when I’ll try to take time off work.

I smile to myself. He’s never visited me on campus, and an idea pops into my head.

Maybe you can come to one of my games? Or if we make the cup?

Yes! Keep me in the loop, but know I’ll be watching from home in the meantime.

We’ve gotten close in the past, but now I have a new form of motivation pushing me. If the team makes it into the cup, Dad will come to a game, which means he will get to meet Chrissy and the crew.

Listen, there’s something I want to say, really quick.

Is everything okay?

I’ve been working on myself and on being a better father. It’s time you knew that I’m thankful for you. You stepped up and did the job of two parents, and it couldn’t have been easy. Thank you for always being there for me. I love you, son.

I have to reread his words before they finally sink in. I swallow hard and type out a response.

I love you too, Dad.

I can’t manage much more of a reply than that. Emotions clog my throat, and my heart hammers in my chest. I close my eyes feeling happy and hopeful for the first time in a long time.

Chapter Forty-Eight

Chrissy

I’ve managed to survive two more meetings with Malik, making today the last one. Thank the fucking universe. Gwen insisted I have the final meeting at the café because afterward, our little family is going to see a movie.

I’m in my normal booth, sipping Gwen’s specialty drink, iced chai, and picking at a blueberry muffin when the table wobbles, disrupting my peace.

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