Page 60 of Under Southern Stars
“That’s exactly it.”
“So I told him, ‘Michael McKenzie, I don’t give a rat’s arse about your money. But if you ever keep something from me again, money or no money, I’ll feed you to the sheep.’”
Despite everything, I smile. “And he believed you?”
“Darling, he’d seen me handle a ram at shearing time. He knew I meant it.” Her voice warms. “Forty years later, here we are.”
The parallel is clear, even if she doesn’t hammer it home. If Sophia is worth keeping, she’ll understand my deception. If not…
“Jackson.” Her voice takes on that tone from when I was small and scared of disappointing her. “Love means being honest. All of yourself, not just the parts you think they’ll like. What Vanessa did was cruel, but letting it make you hide who you are is giving her power she doesn’t deserve.”
“I know.”
After we hang up, I pace my apartment, then grab my phone again. Dad answers on the second ring.
“Jack? Everything alright? Your mother said you’re bringing someone home.”
“Yeah, Dad. Actually, I wanted to ask you something. Could you…this might sound strange, but could you look into someone for me? Just basic stuff, nothing invasive.”
“Who?”
“Troy Bentley. He’s Sophia’s ex-husband. He’s being a right tosser about custody and finances, and I just want to make sure…” I trail off, not sure what I’m asking.
“You want to protect her.”
“Yeah.”
“Send me what you know. I’ll have Rawiri make some inquiries. Nothing heavy-handed.”
“Thanks, Dad.”
“Jack? Your mother’s right. You need to tell this woman the truth. Before you get here.”
“I know.”
But even as I hang up, I’m already finding excuses. Nine days left. Eight if you don’t count travel time.
My phone buzzes. Madison.
Madison: Hey Jack! Do you think Emma would teach me some rugby moves?
I smile, typing back:
Jack: Emma would love that. We can stop by the All Blacks shop at Sky Tower in Auckland too, get you proper gear.
