Page 26 of A Boy Is a Gun: Part II
“So, Cameron,” Mr.Underwood says between bites, “what is it you do now?Besides, uh...coffee shops?”
“Real estate,” I say easily.“I flipped a few buildings.Got a few more under development.I keep a low profile these days.”
“Notthatlow,” Jamie mutters into her wine.
“Jamie,” Mrs.Underwood warns.
“It’s okay,” I say smoothly.“I’m sure she means the news story.Everyone saw it.”
Ethan leans forward slightly.“You’re just full of surprises lately, Page.”
I hold his gaze and make sure I enunciate clearly.“Only for the people who’ve underestimated me.”
Makayla laughs, proud as hell.“That’s what Ilikeabout him.”
Her mom offers a tight smile.“And I’m sure there are many other things.”
“You know there are,” Makayla smirks, stabbing a piece of asparagus.
Then Mr.Underwood clears his throat.“So, how did you two meet?”
“Bookstore,” Makayla says at the same time I say, “Elevator.”
We glance at each other, grin.“Elevator first,” I clarify.“Bookstore second.She was buying three books she had no intention of reading.”
“They looked good on my coffee table,” she shrugged.
I shake my head and put on the biggest fake smile and chuckle.Not a laugh, because it’ll be obvious I’m full of shit.But a chuckle?A chuckle means I’m trying to lighten the mood.I’m trying to appeartrustworthy.After all, Makayla confided in me that she never brought many boyfriends.
Now mom and dad have both of their children involved with one of the wealthiest and most powerful families.What are the odds?“She judged my music taste based on my Spotify playlist.”
Makayla rolls her eyes.“Itwasmostly Drake.”
“Not my proudest week.”I offer.
They laugh.Even Jamie cracks half a smile before catching herself.For a moment, it almost feels...normal.But I see it in their eyes.Every Underwood at this table—except Makayla—is waiting for the other shoe to drop.
And it will.But not tonight.
Tonight, I play nice.I make them laugh.I compliment the food and ask polite questions.Meanwhile, I’m sizing up every single family member like they're pawns in the game of my revenge.
~~~~~~
THE HOUSE IS MOSTLYcleared out.Dishes clink softly as Mrs.Underwood loads the dishwasher.Makayla is chatting with her dad in the hallway.
Jamie corners me outside.“Bold move,” she says, leaning against the counter with her arms folded.
“Thanks,” I sip a to-go coffee courtesy of Carol.“I wore my best sweater vest.”
Jamie’s not smiling.“I mean, Makayla bringing you here.”
I gave a half-shrug.“She wanted me to meet her family.”
She stands beside me.“She doesn’t know what you’re doing.”
I meet her gaze.“Don’t project your regret onto her, Jamie.”
Her eyes flash, just for a second.She doesn’t take the bait.“You’re playing a dangerous game.”
