“A controlling, narcissistic bully?”
“Yes.”
“Are we okay?”
I nod and snuggle against his chest. “Yes. If this were a test, I think we passed.”
“Yeah, we did. But the biggest test of our relationship is still to come.”
I frown. “What?”
“Putting flat pack furniture together.”
I laugh and kiss him. “Oh, we’ll pass that test.”
“You think?”
“I do.” I cradle his cheek and kiss him. “What now?”
Jimmy holds me. “I need to call my parents.”
“Before Billy gives them his version of events?”
Jimmy nods.
My stomach quivers with nerves. “Okay.”
“I’ll suggest dinner. Somewhere neutral. Unlike Billy, they won’t make a scene.”
“Okay.”
“We can do this, Flynn. My brother isn’t going to control the narrative of our lives ever again.”
I smile, buoyed by his confident words. “Wecando this. Call them.”
21
JIMMY
My parents beat us to the restaurant I suggested, and are already sitting at a table when Flynn and I arrive. Mum must have been looking out for me, because she smiles and waves me over. Her gaze tracks to Flynn. She raises her eyebrows and widens her eyes, her mouth forming a surprised O. I guess Billy hasn’t spoken to them yet. Thank fuck. Mum’s expression softens into a cheerful smile. She nudges Dad and says something to him. He looks our way, his forehead crumpled in bemusement.
I squeeze Flynn’s hand. “It’ll be fine.”
He replies with a brave smile and nods.
We cross to the table. My parents stand and take turns to hug me like they haven’t seen me in a century.
Mum hugs Flynn. “It’s been so long.” She pinches his cheek. “You look well. Are you?”
Flynn nods. “Yes, thanks. You?”
Mum puts one hand on his right cheek and theother on my left cheek. “I’d be better if two of my favourite people called me more often.”
Flynn blushes and dips his chin.
“Mum,” I object.
“What? I’m your mother, I’m supposed to be embarrassing.” She turns her attention back to Flynn. “As for you, you’re like a son to me. Just because things didn’t work out between you and Billy, it doesn’t mean you’re not welcome.”
