I look over at Evander and appreciate, for once, that he’s wearing a suit.It adds flair to his threatening physical presence.Our middle brother can be downright intimidating when he wants to be.I guess it’s a gift all the MacLaines share.
We watch Tammy drive off.
“You lovecornhole?”Evander shoves Declan.“What the fuck was that about?”
“Just trying to be polite.Remember what Dad says—the MacLaines are known for their hospitality.”
Special K turns to me.“You need any backup at the volunteer meeting?”
“No, thanks.”Special K’s idea of backup is appropriate in only a very few situations.Like a hostage rescue.Or a taking out a terrorist cell.I don’t think he’d be much help at Sweetbriar Elementary School.
Besides, I got this.
This afternoon’s volunteer meeting’s gonna belit.
I head over to Dad’s.
“What are you doing?Declan yells.
“Bringing Emma home.Have the jet ready to take us to Los Angeles tomorrow.”
“Do you know what she’s planning for dinner?”Special K asks.
I get to my Dad’s front door, reach for the handle, and it flings open.Phyllis blocks my entrance.
“She needs space, Finn.She’s very clear about not wanting to talk to you right now.”
“I need to apologize and explain…”
“She’s resting.”
The door slams in my face.
CHAPTER 68
Emma
Phyllis has been so sweet.I appreciate how she’s tried not to ask too many questions about everything that’s happened with Finn.I told her I just needed a break from Finn’s house, and that I plan to look for a new job.She told me I was welcome with her and Jamie for as long as I need.
But I’ll have to work hard to erase what I just saw in Finn’s eyes.When I shared my concerns about Jasmine, he looked at me with suspicion and anger.What I heard in his voice was mistrust.
That’s not how I want to remember him.
I want to remember how he looks when he smiles at me, or when he hugs Jasmine, or when he enjoys my cooking, or trains a horse, or plays video games.The face I want to hold in my heart forever is the one that looks at me with wonder and lust.
Looked.Past tense.
I wanted too much from Finn.Dreamed of too much.
Only to have it confirmed that Finn doesn’t view me as his equal.I’m not partner material.Just like the twinset triplets said.I’m the cleaner.The woman who walked along the dusty state highway to get to Yosemite Ranch.No PhD.No right to want the best for Jasmine.
An embarrassment to the MacLaines.
I don’t wish to learn that lesson twice.
I meant well.I told him what I knew because it’s vital to Jasmine’s well-being, and I love that kid.But he dismissed me.
I’ve been hurt a lot in my life, in many ways and by many different people, but never have I felt a pain like this.
