Page 51 of Pretty Wild

I scroll past the man himself and tap on my father’s name.

Dad

Just checking in. Hope you’re enjoying your vacation.

Again, Marcus flashes through my mind, but I can’t exactly tell my dad about him. I’m sure he’d be real proud of the fact his daughter—his only baby girl—slept with the grumpy neighbor just three days after meeting.

Me

The relaxation is exactly what I needed.

The bubbles appear immediately, which doesn’t surprise me. Even though California is two hours behind, my dad has always been an early riser. I can picture him sitting in his home office, his second cup of coffee steaming on his desk as he works.

Dad

Good. You know, I’ve been thinking, maybe after this movie, I’ll take your mother away for a little while. Find us a cabin in the mountains somewhere, like Tennessee, and just decompress.

I can’t help but smile, because picturing my father in a cabin in the mountains, let alone one in Tennessee, was a bit absurd. But then again, what did I know? I seem to be enjoying my time in a little rustic cabin, so maybe Douglas Marcotte and Jade Holmes would too.

Me

I’m sure you’d love it. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.

Dad

I’m proud of you, Ryan.

Tears fill my eyes. I’ve always been close to my parents. They did their best to make time for me in their busy schedules, but it could be difficult at times. Dad traveled a lot, on location for whatever movie he was producing, and my mother was incredibly busy with her charity. Yet, I always felt their love, even if we weren’t together.

Me

Thank you.

Dad

I mean it, honey. You’ve grown into an amazing woman and business owner. You’re making your mark all on your own and doing it with class and dignity. You’re so much like your mother. Beauty and brains.

The tears start to fall. My mother was the epitome of class. I have looked up to her my entire life. I’ve been compared to her too, especially under the powerful lens of the camera. The criticism has been brutal over the years, the digs about the ways I don’t measure up. But in the end, it’s all bullshit. None of it mattered then.

And it doesn’t now.

Something I’m learning as the days go by.

I’m also learning about myself, about who I really am and who I want to be.

Dad

Anyway, I’ve been thinking…about Vaughn.

I fire off a text before he can continue.

Me

No.

Dad

I wish you’d let me. It’s not right. He doesn’t deserve the part.

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