Page 123 of Stone
“What do you mean enjoy? I don’t like being ambushed.” It took me a few seconds to realize Tyler had called me Dad. Shock tore through me and now Kekoa lifted his sunglasses as he turned his head slowly.
We looked at each other briefly until my friend nodded. He knew what the moment had meant to me. A smile crossed his face and he nodded several times as if fully satisfied with the evening already.
“It’s tough for Stone to relax, Tyler. He went through a bunch of shit when he served our country, which is why you need to make any decisions on that subject carefully. Serving isn’t glorious and not for the faint of heart.”
Kekoa’s words of wisdom never shocked me. The man also rarely talked about the time he’d served, but I’d known from what little he’d told me what he’d endured.
“Yeah, but my dad is a hero. I hope to be like him one day.”
A flood of emotions tore through me, more so when Kekoa headed into town. My gut told me something was very wrong.
Or very right.
Only seconds later, I knew exactly where he was going. “Hell, no, I don’t want to go here.” I shifted in my seat, entirely uncomfortable.
“Well, since I’m driving, you don’t have a choice.” Kekoa was grinning like some fucking fool. “And don’t sound like a petulant child.”
I bristled, trying to control my nerves, but right now, I didn’t need or want any surprises.
The parking lot of the art center was packed, people milling around the gardens with drinks in their hands. I could hear music booming from their stereo system, the sound creating a festive atmosphere.
As soon as Kekoa parked, Tyler jumped out.
Meanwhile, I lingered in the passenger seat.
Kekoa turned and headed back to the truck, yanking open the passenger door.
“What are you doing, Keke? I can’t take this. You know why.”
“Just trust me, bro. Get the fuck out of my truck.”
Exhaling, I debated walking back even though I knew my behavior was childish. Climbing out, I rubbed my hands on my jeans, now wishing I’d worn something more appropriate.
Neither Kekoa nor Tyler wasted any time, both men heading toward the entrance. I hesitated until Kekoa gave me another look. When he headed in my direction, acting like he was going to manhandle me, I pushed him off and took long strides to the door.
“This had better be worth it,” I grumbled and climbed out.
He slammed the door, even cursing under his breath.
There were too many people inside crowding the entrance to know what the fuck I was walking into.
The crowd was pushed aside seconds later as if someone was coming through and not wasting any time doing so.
“Sometimes fate can play a magical part in a man’s life. If only you embrace the darkness first so you can find the light.”
I looked at my friend Kekoa’s face, indicating he was serious. “A Hawaiian proverb?”
“Nope. Out of a Chinese fortune cookie. They can change your life.”
Laughing, I understood the meaning.
It was time to let go of demons and embrace my life.
No matter what the next day and the next one after that would bring.
When Kage suddenly popped out of the crowd, I was stunned.
More so when Maddox was right behind him.
