I’m hungry so it smells delicious.
“Would you like something to drink?” I offer although it sounds like I’m being a hostess and not entertaining my dad.
Jagger is right. This divide has gone too far and it’s not necessary. His actions were drastic but I’m not worse off because of them. I have a crazy husband that I don’t hate. I have my money and freedom back. Besides that month of being broke showed me that none of the people I called friends were real friends. The moment my account froze, all communication with them ceased. Not once did any of those heifers check in with me.
My dad had been an excellent dad until then.
“Water is fine.”
I grab some bottles from the fridge and join him at the table. We open the box and dive into pizza only the two of us like.
“I miss you, Reesa,” he confesses when he finishes his own slice.
“Why’d you do it, dad?”
“Well, some stuff has to stay on the table but we all had things we wanted at stake. I didn’t put you up but I didn’t deny the request for your hand in marriage to be on the table. You’ve had terrible luck going at it alone and I knew the boys were good. You wouldn’t have to worry about the issues in your last relationship. I figured if you ended up with Oran you’d be fine because you’ve liked him longer than I can remember. I also knew Jagger had an agreeable personality and you two are getting along great.”
“But Jagger had a girlfriend…”
“Who didn’t deserve someone like Jagger. Those boys have their mother’s hearts, they’re not like their asshole fathers. You and Oran were battling for the position of the most single workaholic on the island. And Jagger’s love was being wasted on a cheater. You’re all good kids who just needed to be pushed in the right direction since the four of you couldn’t do it on your own.”
My eyes get big at his observation about Jagger’s relationship. “Y’all knew about Layla?”
“First, we at the Founder’s table know more than you think. Plus, Arthur is reckless. Whatever arrangement he has with Michelle is between them but it’s messed up to fool around with the girl you sent to your son no matter how you slice it. I’m glad he’s gone. Now if Oran can replace Elmer, I’ll be happy.”
He takes a sip of water but looks at me with sincere brown eyes. “Either way, I shouldn't have meddled and I’m sorry.”
Honestly, an apology is all I wanted. “And you’re going to let my sisters figure out life on their own?”
He laughs, flashing his near perfect teeth. I’ve missed that laugh. “I promise.”
Getting up. I hug him and he gives me the bear hug I’m used to. I tear up because I didn’t realize how much I missed it.
“Just know, I’ll always do what’s best for you even if you don’t like my methods.”
“How about you consult with me before being extreme?”
“Deal. I love you, Ressa.”
“I love you, too.”
We resume eating and catch-up subjects we haven’t discussed during the month of silence. All of our awkwardness is gone by the time my mom and Jagger return laughing about something.
“I think they’ve been drinking,” my dad points out.
“You get your drunk and I’ll get mine?”
My dad pulls me into another hug and kisses my forehead. “Sounds like a plan. Hold on to that one, he set this up. Told me to get my head out of my ass. After I cussed him out, I did just that.”
I laugh because it takes a lot for my dad to cuss at someone but as I look up, Jagger squeezes my mom harder than necessary and I know if anyone can make Dondi LeClaire cuss, it’s him.
Chapter Eighteen
Jagger
Beinga Founder’s kid has signed us up for more scrutiny than most. We may have the money and are born into fame, but it’s often like being under a microscope and constantly being watched. Every move makes the news. Karessa more than me because the world thinks she’s so sweet. I’ve gotten more media attention since the wedding including text messages from unknown numbers telling me to leave her, but I’ve learned to ignore them. The media is just a backdrop to my life and I resume business as usual. Now, I feel the presence of someone yet I don’t see anyone. It’s a nagging feeling I’ve had all morning. Someone is lingering and I don’t like the feeling.
Me: Meet me at the Island Cafe.
