It’s a timely reminder of how far I’ve progressed.
“I didn’t know what to think,” he says, shoving his hands in the pockets of his loose-hanging sweats. “I didn’t understand it, but I do now.”
“I’m trying to deal with my illness. Trying to open up more.” I shrug, averting my eyes. “It’s a work in progress.”
“If I can help, you only have to ask.”
I look up at him. “Thank you, and the best thing you can do for me is to treat me like you would any other girl.”
His eyes pop wide, and I giggle. Yeah, I’m pretty sure Keanu wouldnotappreciate Kent treating me like most of his girls. “Or maybe not.” My laughter fades. “I just don’t want any pity. I don’t want my past to define who I am anymore.”
“I think you’re so fucking brave, Selena. I could never pity you.”
Our eyes meet in shared understanding, and my heart stutters in my chest at what I see lurking behind his restrained smile. “Thank you.”
I gulp, and Kent looks away. “What are you two goons looking at?”
I whip my head around, spotting Keanu and an older version of him staring at Kent like he’s an apparition.
“Nothing much, jackass,” Keven says, running his eyes along his brother’s arms. “You got a fever or something?”
“Funny.” Kent pouts, crossing his arms and glaring at his older brother.
“Sel.” Keanu extends his arm, gesturing me forward. I step toward him, weaving my fingers in his. He pulls me slowly into his side. “This is my brother Keven.”
“It’s very nice to finally meet you, Selena,” Keven says, his voice radiating warmth like his kind smile.
“You too.” I lean into Keanu, smiling shyly at his hot, older brother. Although I’ve only met Kyler, Keaton, and Kent previously, I know all the Kennedy men are drop-dead gorgeous because there are photos of them plastered all over social media. They are a bit like living legends in the Boston area, and hearts break wherever they go. And even though Kyler, Kaden, and Keven have a different dad than Kalvin, Keanu, Kent, and Keaton, they are all so alike with their dark hair, blue eyes, masculine jawlines, and tall, ripped bodies.
The doorbell rings again, and it can only be Mom. “I’ll go.”
Keanu releases me.
“Check who it is before opening the door,” Kev advises.
“Selena is very security conscious,” Keanu says, his eyes following me to the door.
I check through the peephole and open the door to my mom. She steps inside, and I shut the door before giving her a brief hug.
“You holding up okay, sweetheart?” she asks, unwinding the silk scarf from around her neck.
“Yes. I spoke with Denise and Keanu, and I went swimming, and then, we hung out around here. I’m fine.” And I realize I am as the words leave my mouth, and I’m proud of myself.
“Sandrine.” Keanu hugs my mom. “These are my brothers Keven and Kent.”
Mom shakes both their hands. “It’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard so much about all of you from your mom.”
Keven and Kent trade surprised expressions.
“Ah, you’re not aware.” She removes her coat, and Keanu takes it from her, draping it over the back of a dining chair.
“Let’s sit.” Keanu ushers everyone to the couches, and I sink into the plush blue velvet, crushed to his side. Mom sits beside me, while Kev and Kent sit across from us.
“Your mother and I are good friends,” Mom explains. “She contributes significantly to my charity, and she has shown untold kindness to my daughter, as well as fulfilling one of Selena’s childhood dreams.”
“Selena always wanted to be a model,” Keanu confirms, jumping in before I can say it.
“It’s how they tricked us,” I croak. “The men who took us,” I elaborate, knotting and unknotting my hands. “They stopped us on the street in Phoenix and told us we could be models. Gave us a card. Told us not to tell our parents, and we stupidly agreed.”
