“Well, he owns the company, so he kind of is, indirectly.”
“Point taken.”
Here comes the hard part.
“I know what I’m doing is wrong and a sin. I’m conflicted, but if I had the chance to undo it all, I wouldn’t. Am I a bad person?”
“No, you’re a person enjoying happiness for the first time in your life.”
“You’re wise beyond your years.”
“Duh,” he says smugly.
“You’re so modest,” I say sarcastically, punching him in the thigh.
“You’re really into Freddy Krueger’s twin brother, huh?” Patrick asks, laughing.
“Don’t make fun of his appearance,” I snap defensively.
“I’m sorry, Pepper,” he says solemnly. “That was a terrible joke.”
“Yeah, it was. Watch what you say about him.”
“Okay. How serious is this?”
“I care about him a lot, but it’s complicated.”
“Why?”
I’m not explaining to my kid brother that Dom is only interested in a summer booty call.
“That’s a discussion for another day.”
“I’m surprised Dad allowed you to stay here.”
“Well, he kind of didn’t, exactly.” I relay the blackmailing scheme to him.
“That’s badass, Pepper.”
Dom saunters into the living room fully dressed in yesterday’s clothes.
“Get ready, we’re going to breakfast,” he says, towel-drying his hair. “Patrick, you’re welcome to accompany us.”
“I could always eat.” He grins. “Thanks for inviting me.”
“No problem.”
“Dad will wonder why you’re not in church.”
“I’ll handle him.”
“But—”
“It’ll be fine. Trust me.”
“All right. Give me fifteen minutes,” I say, heading to the bedroom.
“Yo, your ride is sick, dude!” Patrick shouts excitedly, running his hand along the sleek red paint.
