“She’s probably flexible because of her failed dancing career. I bet you could do a lot with that.”
How the fuck does she knows about that?
I take a deep breath through my nose before I lose my shit. “She didn’t fail. She was hit by a fucking car, you heartless witch.”
I also want to tell her that Juliette is the hottest fuck I’ve ever had and the most genuine person I’ve ever met. She should try putting the two together, but that would mean I give away details about Jules, which won’t happen.
Jules is all mine. No one has the right to know anything about us.
My phone rings, and Seb’s name illuminates the screen. I’ve never been so happy for someone to interrupt me because I could tell you right now if Rachel were a guy, she’d be out cold on the ground.
“Get out of my face, Rachel, and tell your son to keep his mouth shut. Otherwise, I’m going to the school and making a formal complaint.”
She screams something unintelligible as I walk away to answer. “What’s up?”
“I grabbed what I needed from my office, and I’m on my way uptown now. Is Claudina almost done with her class?”
“I could have brought her to you. I have to return to the office for a late meeting,” I tell him.
“I’m going to wait until traffic dies down. We’ll have dinner at Mom’s, and then we’ll leave. She’ll sleep in the car.”
I look at my watch, and it’s almost five…he’s right. If he leaves now, it will take him over three hours instead of two.“Class is over in ten minutes. Meet us in front, and I’ll have her jump in your car.”
“Okay. By the way, have you spoken to Nate today?”
My steps falter at his tone. “No? What’s wrong?”
Seb sighs. “Leo and Nate were working from home this morning. Nate had to run back to his place to copy some documents. Leo didn’t realize how much time had passed, and his phone was on speaker while talking with Mason.”
Fucking shit.
“Let me guess, it’s about Maddie Grace?”
“Of course. While Mason was home this weekend, he saw her go on a few dates with the same guy, and Nate lost it. I don’t understand what the hell the problem is. He loves her. Why is he sitting back and waiting around like a jerk-off?”
“I don’t know. I know he was waiting for her to finish school, but after that, I have no fucking clue.” I sigh loudly. “I’m going to give him a call before her class lets out. I’ll see you in a few.”
I hang up and then call Nate. “What?” he snaps.
“What’s going on? Seb just called.”
I hear him pacing back and forth. “She’s dating someone. I don’t know what the fuck to do.” His voice catches, and I feel bad for my little brother.
He wanted to let his sheltered southern country girl thrive on her own before going back to her, now it might be too late.
“Why have you waited so long to get her back?” I never understood.
“I went and saw her.” He lowers his voice. “A little over a year ago, she made it very clear to me that I hurt her too deeply. I thought I could be selfless and give her up so she’d be happy without me.”
What?“What kind of bullshit is that?” I shout.
“I don’t know! I have to go.” He hangs up, and I’m left standing there shocked.
When did he see her?
And then it hits me…the conversation right before with Seb was the most cordial we’ve had in a while. He sounded like himself again, and I’m hoping it’s because this therapist is finally working.
I catch a glimpse of the kids packing up from across the street, so I have no time to think about either of my brothers right now.
