If I told them to jump out of the plane, they probably would. Either these people are terrified of us or the team.
Seeing the opportunity to get my earbuds back because Amelia’s distracted in conversation with Elijah, I lean forward like the ninja I am and swipe my belongings from her grasp.
“Hey!” She jumps in her seat and glares over at me.
Elijah whines, “We’re playing a game.”
Untying the minor knot in the cords of my earbuds, I mutter to them both, “I don’t want to play a silly game. Be children without me.”
My ears are immediately filled with rhythm. Placing my head back, I close my eyes. The only thing that’s on my mind is a certain small-town girl.
* * *
The house we have here in Greece is one hundred times better than the one in LA. It’s home. The moment you walk through the door, you feel welcome. It’s not massive, but not small. Perfect for a family of three.
The house in LA screams loneliness. Don’t be fooled when you see the expensive designer furniture. No family pictures lie anywhere, leaving every wall and table bare. My father lives there full-time. I guess he would rather not be reminded about us. I could not care less.
It’s quiet in here. The team isn’t allowed in here. Mom told them this was our space, our family home. They’re staying in a rented apartment for the time we’re here, and Dad has tagged along with them. A part of me is glad he did, but you would think he would stay with his family.
He’s a lost cause, Leonidas. Get that in your damn head. He’s not the father you grew up with. He’s now just a part of the team. That’s all he’ll ever care about.
Mom designed this place in Athens, Greece. The moment I walk in, I want to jump on the couch and take a yearlong nap. Fluffy pillows, carpets, blankets, pictures of us are all over the place. Not to mention, the beautiful view of Acropolis from our balcony.
I love it here. Being surrounded by my people brings me peace. The air here is fresh. The sound of children’s laughter makes me want to sit outside and listen more. I know Trinity would love it here. I’ll definitely have to bring her one day.
I sent her a text that we arrived safely. It’s late there, so knowing she’ll see it in the morning makes me smile.
My hands grip the balcony railing as I lean forward. Closing my eyes, I mentally prepare myself for my first live performance tomorrow night. Today and tomorrow will be filled with people running around, freaking out, us constantly practicing, and not to mention, meet and greets. Hate to break it to all my lovely fans, but the Leo they love won’t be in a good mood. He’ll be mentally counting down the days until he arrives in Canada.
FIFTY-FOUR
TRINITY
“You knew about this?” I ask over my shoulder to where Mom lies on my bed, watching me sort through my books.
She nods with a smile. “He talked to me about it before he left.”
So, that’s why he talked to Mom. Silly old me prayed he was trying to convince her to allow me to leave with them.
“This is very overwhelming.” I laugh, gesturing to all my books.
I’ve counted hundreds of books in the boxes, not including the bookshelf he filled. My room looks like a library threw up, and I’m not complaining.
“He’s a very sweet boy,” she mumbles while reading the back of a book. “This sounds good. Mind if I borrow it?”
I let out a laugh. “No need to ask. I think I’m good for a couple years. My TBR list is gigantic.”
“I think you’ll be good for eternity.” She giggles.
Yes, I’ll never have to buy books for a while because of him. Leonidas is so thoughtful; it makes me want to cry. But today is not about crying. It’s all about sorting through the amazing gifts he gave me.
“How’s work?” I ask Mom, wanting to make small talk instead of sitting in awkward silence.
She shoots me a beaming smile. “I was meaning to talk to you about that. The bank was very impressed with my work. They gave me a raise and a higher position in the firm.”
A smile lifts my face. I’m happy for her. She deserves it. She’s been trying so hard, and I appreciate it so much. Actions speak louder than words, and she has proven herself.
Maybe Dad is listening to my prayers?The thought feels like a warm hug.
