Page 84 of Puck with Karma
“What are you talking about?”
He drops his head back and stares at the ceiling for a while.
“I partnered with your father on a business deal that now depends on his financial backing. His only covenant was that I would propose to you.”
“What?” My voice sounds a lot louder than intended. “Did you tell him we’re not even together anymore?”
“I…” He stares at me. “No.”
“Wesley!” I slap his arm hard. “I can’t believe you. Just tell him the truth. What is this, some mafia story?”
“It’s complicated, Abby. Your mother got involved, too. Her signature is needed on this particular document. She will not sign unless I marry you.”
“Jesus Christ.” I throw myself back against the seat. “Why wouldn’t she sign?”
“It’s a long story,” he tries to explain. “But my grandmother’s house somehow got tangled in all this.”
“Grandma Trudy?” I always had a soft spot for her, and she was always very nice to me, but I always had a feeling that she didn’t think I was a good fit for her grandson. She was right.
“Why don’t you buy her out?”
“I wish it was that easy.” I hate how sad he looks. “My startup is about to take off. I need your dad to invest in it. He is all in. He is my most solid investor. And I know I can make a shitload of money off this, Abby.”
He is very passionate about it, I can tell.
“I just need you to pretend like we’re engaged. Only until your mom signs off on Grandma Trudy’s house, and your dad transfer the funds over for my business.”
“Wes…” I start.
“I am begging you, Abby. If I start over as I look for a backer, I’m going to lose momentum. Everything is lined up so damn perfectly.”
“Wes…” I sigh.
“I won’t be a disruption to your life at all. But you are all I got right now.”
“I understand, Wes. I really do…”
My mother bursts into the room.
“Oh my god, she saidyes!”
My eyes are locked with Wesley’s. He looks desperate. I hate how desperate. And I hate that me not helping will hurt him.
“Mom.” I push away from her, but she is not paying attention to anything.
“I’ve been looking forward to this since you two were little kids.” She presses a hand to her chest, eyes full of unshed tears. “Look how beautiful they are together, Rod!”
Dad is just staring at us, not showing much emotion overall.
“I knew this would work out,” my mother continues. “I had no doubt in my mind when I sent that press release.”
I feel dizzy all of a sudden, and I pray to God that what she just said is not true.
“You’ll make the most beautiful bride.”
I’m going to faint. Lights out.
Chapter 25
