Page 112 of Breakout
He hums. “Have you listened to them yet?”
“No, not yet. I was getting ready to listen when she called the fourth time.”
“So four calls total, two voicemails, and one actual conversation?”
“Yes.”
“Well, I’d like to hear those voicemails when you get a chance. We might be able to get a restraining order against herfor harassment, but other than that, I think our hands are tied right now.”
“Yeah, I didn’t think there was much you would be able to do. I just wanted to tell you what was happening.”
“I appreciate that, Peyton. While I have you on the phone, though, there is something I need to talk to you about.”
“What’s up?”
“We got a court date,” he says, making my heart race.
“Wait, really? So soon?”
He chuckles. “Yes. It’s honestly taken longer than I would like. Actually, that’s probably what prompted Janis’s threats. Her counsel didn’t take it too well that everything was moving forward. Rumor has it they tried to throw some money around, work the good ol’ boys system, and get the case tossed out, but it didn’t work.”
“That actually happens in real life?”
“More than I’d like to admit.” He pauses. “Your grandfather made sure, though, before he died, that it wouldn’t happen. He tried his damnedest to make sure you got everything as easily as possible.”
“I can see that. I hate that I never got to know him,” I say softly.
“He hated it too, dear, more than you know.”
“Okay, so what will happen when we go to court? What date, and do I need to be there?”
“Yes, I recommend you and Beckett come together. I know you have school, but you need to show up.”
He continues to give me more details, and I start to feel overwhelmed.
“I feel like I should be writing this down,” I blurt out, cutting him off.
Mr. Piper chuckles. “I know I’m throwing a lot of information at you fast, but don’t worry. Mary will email you this afternoonwith all the details. We’ve found it’s easier to do it this way over the years.”
“That’s smart.”
“Do you have any questions for me?” he asks.
I shake my head even though he can’t see me. “No, I think that’s it for now. I’ll email or call you if I think of anything.”
“Sounds good. I’ll see you soon, Peyton.”
“Mr. Piper, I just wanted to say thanks. I appreciate everything you’re doing for me.”
“It’s my pleasure, dear. This will all be over soon, and you’ll be able to move on with your life,” he says before hanging up.
Sighing, I drop my phone into my lap and stare off into space.
Move on with my life.
I don’t even know what that looks like anymore.
“Hey, you’re home early,” Clay says when I walk into the house.
