“Um, another thing.”
“You wanna quit, huh?”
“Yes.” I grimaced. “Are you mad?”
“Why does everyone think I’m gonna be mad?”
“Because you’re Mack,” I said. “You growl more than you speak.”
Dad chuckled. “Okay, maybe so, but when have I ever done that with you kids. Or your mom?”
“Ah, let’s see. When Harper dated that guy Sophomore year, and he ended up rear ending that old lady the night of their second date. When Huxley wanted to go to homecoming with the tight end on the football team. When Mom was talking to that model guy at one of her book signings and he was getting a little too close and you—”
He raised his hand, cutting me off. “Okay, enough.”
“I haven’t even gotten to Grayson yet.”
“You’ve made your point.”
“Have I?” I sassed.
“Have you signed up for classes?” Dad asked, rolling his eyes.
“I have. Cash guided me on which ones to take. I’ve already got my associates, so I can get my automotive credits in less than two years. And Hatch said I can work at the shop full time.”
Dad smiled. “I’m really proud of you, baby.”
I let that sink into my soul. “Thanks, Daddy.”
A knock on the open door brought Cash and I jumped up and slid into his arm. “Hey, beautiful.”
“Hi,” I breathed out. “You’re early.”
“Finished the Mustang.”
“Yay,” I said.
Cash grinned, giving me a squeeze, then greeted my father.
“Heard there was some drama today,” Dad said, leaning against his desk and crossing his arms.
“Fuckin’ Gloria,” Cash breathed out. “She broke into the employee files to get my address, then showed up at my place this weekend. Maisie fired her, which meant all the locks and codes had to be changed.”
“Lucky she fucked up bad enough Maisie had cause to fire her.”
“True,” Cash said.
“Hatch let you know about the all-hands Wednesday?”
Cash nodded.
“Right, you two enjoy your night,” Dad said.
I grinned, hugging my dad. “Love you.”
“Love you too, baby girl.” Dad gave Cash a death stare. “Keep her safe.”
Cash nodded. “Precious cargo, brother.”
