Page 6 of Skye's Fall
“I have an offer for you, Skye,” he starts.
“What kind of offer?”
“Chicken Fried Loveis doing something different this season,” he replies.
“Different how? It’s a dating show.” Weirdo.
“Well, a guy Memphis knows is falling on hard times and another friend, a fighter, needs an image boost. I promise you will get compensated and you will have room and board. And it will be a season you won’t forget.”
I don’t even hesitate. “Yes.” I probably should have thought about it, but nope, I just jump straight through the fire hoop.
“Are you sure?” He’s giving me time to think about it. Do it, dummy, think. But no, I don’t.
“Yes, I’m sure,” I agree.
I don’t have to work at the bar, and I’ll be experiencing something new, even after last season. I mean, in a way, I need an image boost too.
“You might want to see Ever before the show films.” What?
“Okay.” I jump in my car. I need to see Ever, I guess.
But I’m really wondering what Sal has up his sleeve.
Chapter Four
Linc
“What the hell, Beau?” I hiss at him as I see Skye run out. “Did you do that on purpose?” She looked sad when she realized it was me.
“Why are you getting so bent out of shape? It’s not like you care about my sister.” He hit a nerve with that one. I did at one time, and then I didn’t. But it’s still kind of cruel to use his sister in that way. And to do it because I’m sitting at the table. I wanted a shot, just a regular shot.
And if Memphis knew that the last time I fucked her was on his wedding day, I’m not sure I would still be standing. Or actually, sitting here to witness Skye’s talents. That day killed me. I poured my heart out, she poured hers out, and we fucked. Passionate, hate filled sex. And even though I told her I didn’t care anymore, it was a lie. I told her I hated her that day. I don’t, but she’s not the same person she was and I don’t like that.
“Chill out, Beau. Timber called with an update. Buddy is going to be okay. They want to keep him overnight.” At least he’s going to be okay. One thing that went right today.
“Thank you,” I nod sadly. This day is shit.
“Come on. Ever made up a guest room for you.” Memphis throws some money at Beau, who throws it back. I take it and give it to Memphis because this back and forth could go on forever with these two. One night almost came to blows over paying a bill and Beau had told Memphis no. Believe it or not, Beau can hold his own with Memphis. I broke up the argument that night before a punch could be thrown and right now, I don’t need that.
“Look, Linc. I know you are going through a rough time. But if you need me, I’m here for you,” Beau says as he pats my back. I know he means it. He means well. He might be a jerk sometimes, but I know he has a good heart.
“Thanks.” All my anger fades and I’m back to being sad. I can’t believe my mom would do this to me. I know it was her since my dad is usually too drunk to even think straight. She could have easily manipulated him.
I slide into the car and Memphis heads to his house.
“You can stay here as long as you want,” Memphis says softly.
“I’m not a charity case,” I snap, not meaning it to come out like that.
Memphis doesn’t remark on that, just keeps driving. I don’t think he heard me, and if he did, I don’t believe he thinks of me as that, but it still hurts. No one wants to be a charity case. But I know he means well.
We pull into his driveway and I see a black SUV. I know it’s Sal’s since he’s the only one with an expensive car.
“Why is Sal here?” I ask as we pull in.
“He’s building on the back of Shane’s property. He wants to get to know Ever better.”
Ever and Sal come out of the house as Memphis parks and Ever rushes to the car, pulling me into a hug as soon as I open the door.
