Lucian insists on buying me multiple pairs of shoes. If I even look at a pair for a second too long, he calls an attendant to get it in my size to try on.
I’m trying on a pair of boots with boxes surrounding me on all sides. I stand to walk around in the boots then look in the mirror.
“What do you think of these?” Lucian tilts his head. “They look great on you.”
“They feel good. It’s kind of weird. I don’t know when the last time I got a pair of new shoes. Always just got what I could get for cheap at the thrift store.”
Lucian’s face frowns.
“Your mom didn’t get you shoes?”
I stare down at my feet. “When I was around eleven or twelve she really just stopped paying much attention to me at all. She was always high or passed out.”
Lucian’s silent for a moment, then he steps over boxes to me, placing his hands on my shoulders.
“I’m sorry, Gracie. You deserved more than that.”
“It’s not you who should be apologizing.” I raise my face to his. “I was taken from you.”
His eyes scan mine then he pulls me into a hug. “I’ll always be here for you now. Anything you need, I’ll get it for you.”
By the end of it, the guards carry so many bags Maeve and I can’t stop laughing.
“That one looks like he might tip over.” She cackles.
Lucian chuckles with us.
That afternoon, we hit the pool. Maeve sunbathing in oversized sunglasses and a cherry red bikini, her headphones in. I wear an oversized T-shirt over my suit, ankles dangling in the water, watching the clouds pass. The bruises are now a yellowish green, but mainly, I can’t stand to look at my scars.
“Iz?”
I hum, turning to look at her.
“Don’t stay here for me.”
I pull my feet out and walk to her, sitting on the lounger beside her. “You’re my sister. You would be the only reason I’d stay.”
She slides her sunglasses up onto the top of her head, looking at me. “Because you’re my sister from another mister, I want you to have a better life. You go, get to know your dad, and make a better future for yourself.”
My eyes water. “I don’t want to leave you.”
“You’re not.” Maeve sits up. “No matter what happens, I will always be here for you. Only a phone call or text away. You’ve been through hell; you deserve a slice of nice.”
I hold her gaze, seeing the truth in her eyes. “I do want to know him.” I stare at my feet.
“I know you do. He’s the only parent who seems to actually give a damn. So, fuck this hellhole and going to community college. Go get your fancy on.”
I laugh. “I love you.”
“Love you, too.” She winks, lying back.
I mirror her.
“What if my step-sister is evil?”
“What’s her name again?”
“Dakota.”
