Tonight is a big event for the Caddell family. They have put a foot into politics. The opening of the brewery and its success for the Mayor is an introduction—a statement into what they could do for future and bigger politicians.
The indoor space is filled with lowlights, booths and tables with free flights of beers and burgers bigger than my head. The outdoor portion is adequately heated with stand up heaters, allowing people to sit comfortably on the couches and tables. Corn hole, giant jenga and many other games cover the outdoor space, entertaining people as the poll votes move along thenumerous TV’s inside and outside. The place is packed and filled with signs sayingvote for Hernandez.OrSecure your vote, get a beer on Hernandez.
“Let’s go outside!” Macey grabs both Sam and I, leading us to some couches that sit by a heater under a pergola.
Looking around, Cole stands tall with security around the venue, wearing a suit that’s lined with a bullet proof vest underneath. An earpiece sits subtly in his ear while his eyes scan the venue, his hands resting on the holster that not so subtly pokes out.
After a few short minutes, everyone quiets down when we’re greeted with a couple entering the back portion of the venue. Though older, age has done nothing to diminish their good looks. Whether it be the old money that’s granted them such luxuries, it only adds to the power and sophistication that radiates from them. It’s evident they’re well-known by the way people greet them with eager handshakes and intimidated nods.
“Is that the mayor and his wife?” I ask Macey and Sam.
As the couple approaches, I get a better look. The woman's long brown hair somehow doesn’t so much as budge from the delicate bun it’s been placed in as she scans the venue. For amber eyes, they are still somehow cold, lifeless almost. Her stunning, emerald dress matches the man’s eyes she clings to.
That’s when I realize exactly who I’m looking at—Tyler and Sam’s parents.
The man’s salt and pepper hair is slicked and groomed, his face clean shaven, showing off the sharp features Tyler inherited. His eyes dance around the venue with amusement, almost like he is above everyone else here, and his appearance is more of a joke than a necessity.
“Nope. That’s my parents,” Sam groans.
“Mom and Dad are coming.” Tyler appears behind us.
Sam completely drains of her normal color and is replaced with a gray hue as her parents approach. Yet, Tyler stands tallwith his hands in his pockets, looking unbothered save for the muscle feathering in his jaw.
All I can see is a smaller, more vulnerable Tyler doing the same thing—trying to be brave for his sister in the presence of his parents. Suddenly, I feel anger ignite into a small flame inside me.
“Tyler, this place is a hit!” His mother says as they approach, her once cold eyes turning warm for her son. It’s terrifying how easily she can shift. I wonder if that’s where Tyler gets it from.
“Hi, mom.” He gives her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. So tender and welcoming compared to his father.
“Mom.” Sam gives them each a hug. “Daddy.”
“Mitchell,” Tyler says, shaking his father’s hand like they just closed a business deal.
“Good job, Tyler.” Mitchell pats his son on the back. I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s the most affection he’s ever received from him.
“Mr. and Mrs. Caddell!” Anthony quips, hugging their mother and shaking hands with their father.
“Anthony, you always do such a lovely job getting these events together. It always flows so smoothly and is just so trendy.” The mother smiles.
“What can I say?” Anthony strains a grin.
“It’s so good to see you again, Mr. and Mrs. Caddell.” Macey nods.
My heart thrums in anticipation for my introduction. The beat of it coursing an odd anger that I can’t shake as the flames grow hotter inside me.
“Mom, daddy, this is Sunny. She is my best friend and date tonight!” Sam chimes giddily, no doubt to anger her parents.
The introduction feels like background noise. I keep my gaze on their father, who keeps his gaze on Tyler, who keepshisgaze on me.
“These are my parents Mitchell and Diane,” Sam says.
Finally I come to, reach my hand out, and plaster a polished smile on my face. “Hi, I’m Sunny. I’ve heard a lot about you. Especially you.” I turn to Mitchell.
The smile fades fast from my face as I look at the man who abused two of the people I love most. Sam huffs a laugh and a smile curves on Tyler’s face.
“Sunny? Interesting name.” Mitchell takes my hand, squeezing tightly.
“My parents are pretty unconventional.” I squeeze back.
