Page 119 of Broken Ties (Rixon High 4)

“Poppy looks like she went ten rounds with Deontay Wilder.”

“I want to be angry.” He let out a thin breath. “But I’m just relieved they’re okay.”

It was on the tip of my tongue to tell him about Sofia fainting again. But I knew she’d have my balls so I left it. The doctor had said it could happen again, and I understood her desire not to be coddled.

But I didn’t like the idea of her vulnerable. If she didn’t tell them soon, I would. Even if she hated me for it.

“Are they coming down?” he asked as I stirred my coffee.

“I’m not sure.”

“I give Jase an hour tops before he comes over here.”

Shit. He was the last person I wanted to see this morning considering I’d had my fingers deep inside his daughter in the middle of the night.

“Son, what is it?”

“Nothing.” I pasted on a smile. “Just tired.”

“Didn’t you sleep?”

Something like that.I trapped the words behind my teeth, trying to ignore the images swimming around my head.

“How’s the shoulder holding up?”

“It’s all good, Dad. I’ll be ready for Friday’s game.”

“I’m proud of you, Aaron. No matter whether things go your way or not, you still show up and put in the time.”

“Well, yeah. My shot isn’t over yet.”

“No, kid, it isn’t. But maybe—”

“Morning.” Sofia appeared with Poppy in tow.

“Oh look, the party girls have decided to grace us with their presence.” Dad chuckled.

“Ha ha, Dad. Very funny.” She went to him and laid her head on his shoulder. “How bad is it?”

“Your mom is pissed. Jase too.” His eyes flicked to Poppy. “But contrary to popular belief, I can remember what it was like being eighteen. Just try to stay out of the bar fight next time.”

“Mom’s going to kick your ass when she hears you’re on their side,” I said, leaning back against the counter.

“I’m not on their side. I can empathize with their side. There’s a difference.”

“I love you, Dad.”

“Love you too, sweetheart.”

Poppy slid onto a stool and rested her chin on her fists.

“That’s quite the bruise you have,” Dad said.

“Ugh, don’t remind me.” She hesitated. “How angry would you say my dad is?”

“Why don’t you ask him?” Coach Ford appeared and a ripple went through the room.

“Hi, Dad.”

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