Page 81 of Renascence
“Whoa. That’s a tough one.” He runs his fingers through his hair. “I would’ve done anything I could to prevent it, but I can’t see a life without her in it. Emily?”
“Yeah. What if—?”
“What if you let her go and die a miserable old man?” Einstein says. “What if you hold on to her and you both live a happy and fulfilling life? There’s no time or room for what-ifs, Venom.”
“E’s right. She’s already fitting in. We left her at the house laughing up a storm with Raven, Ellen, and Chrissy.”
“She’s had a fucked-up life so far. I couldn’t forgive myself if I made it worse.”
“I don’t know what to tell you, brother. You and your girl need to work it out. Together.”
“Yeah.” I sigh, knowing Gage is right.
“Listen, I know what will cheer you up.” He reaches into his cut, pulling out some tickets and waving them at me. “Tickets to see K.O. Jackson fighting Romero ‘The Fist’ tomorrow night!”
“Seriously? I thought it was sold out.”
“Had a guy who owed me a favor. I got enough for everyone. Bring your lady.”
“I don’t know if that’s her thing.”
“Just bring her, asshole. Besides, I doubt Raven will let me hear the end of it if you don’t.”
“Fine. We’ll be there.”
“Good. Now let’s break up this little circle jerk. I think I feel my balls shriveling up.”
I laugh, Einstein joining in. I guess this is why I came here. I still have no idea what I’m going to do about Emily, but at least I feel better.
With a flick of my wrist, I motion to Marisol for another drink, watching her hips swing—with surprising disinterest—as she brings it over.Hmm…come to think of it, she may be perfect for what I need.
“Hey, Marisol. I have a proposition for you.”
***Emily***
“Hey, Mom.”
I stick a finger in my ear, moving away from the music in the clubhouse so I can hear her clearly.
“Hey, honey. How’s Stony View? Ready to come home?”
“It’s good, actually. I like it here.”
“You sound different.”
“What do you mean?” I ask.
“You sound… happy.” There’s a brief silence before she shrieks, “Emily Ann! What’s his name?”
I take a deep breath, having no inclination to lie. “His name is—” I stop myself, knowing the moment I say “Venom,” this conversation goes in a different direction. “Liam.”
“Liam. Strong name. Is he handsome?”
“Very.”
“What does he do?”
“He owns the gym I go to here, but he’s also an accountant.”
