I can’t hide in my room forever. Putting on a brave face, Ihead back downstairs.
The house is modern and cozy, decorated in a blend of minimal and farmhouse, all warm neutrals and clean lines. The open floorplan makes finding the kitchen easy.
Maryanne sits in the adjoining living room watching tv. She notices me immediately and points out the sandwich waiting for me on the granite counter. I settle on a barstool.
“Where’s Ben?” I ask, taking a bite. The sandwich is simple, but comforting.
“In his office,” she replies. “Catching up on work.”
Just then, the front door opens, then slams back shut. I jump, heart lurching, and clutch a worried hand to my chest.
Maryanne perks up. “That must be Axel!” She claps her hands, excited. “Axel! We’re in here! Come meet Lina!”
Heavy, measured footsteps head our way. I look to the doorway expectantly.
Axel strolls in and—oh.
Oh.
Sweet Jesus, he’s not what I expected. Tall. Built. Dark hair in a clean crew cut. Golden skin. Honey-brown eyes. Sharp jawline. Freckled nose. He’s dressed in a simple gray V-neck with torn black jeans and motorcycle boots.
I stare. I can’t help myself. Maryanne made onehotkid.
I silently thank the good lord we’re not blood related.
Seconds later, the front door opens and shuts again. And then Johnny walks in.
Oh,come on.
He’s got the same build, same complexion as Axel, but his shoulders are broader, his hair buzzed down, and he’s got a flannel thrown over a white tee that looks like it’s been painted on him. There’s a hoop in his nose that screams ‘bad boy.’ The redflags are practically whipping through a hurricane.
His hazel eyes meet mine.
Great.There are two of them.
We all stare at each other for a second too long.
Maryanne breaks the tension. “Well don’t just stand there! Greet the poor girl!”
“Hey,” both boys mumble in unison, sounding bored.
Don’t act so excited on my account…
“Hi,” I offer, with a half-wave. “I’m Lina.”
Axel scowls like I broke his favorite toy, then turns and stalks away.
Okay then.
“Axel!” Maryanne snaps, clearly horrified.
“It’s fine,” I lie. It’snotfine, but I’m not here to make friends. I’m here to stay alive.
Johnny lingers, studying me with interest.
“So,” he says, “this is the long-lost daughter?”
My shoulders stiffen. “I wasn’t lost. But yeah, I guess that’s me.”
