Angry.
I dismiss it.
“That was beautiful, Jack. I didn’t realize you knew any verses.”
Noel’s brow scrunches, and his eyes dart from him to me several times. “What is she talking about? You didn’t tell her?”
“Tell me what?” I ask.
Jack smacks the table with his fist to demand Noel’s attention.
“Don’t say afuckingthing,” he orders, low enough that only the three of us can hear.
“Bruh,” Noel replies, flabbergasted. “I figured that’s why Morgan liked you. Are you telling me you never talked about God?”
“Barely,” he mutters. “It doesn’t matter. Drop it.”
But Noel doesn’t.
He throws up his hands in disbelief. “So Morgan Leigh Montgomeryactuallyliked you? I spent hours and hours trying to learn this book and—”
“Noel. Shut. Up,” he growls.
I am more confused than ever, but I don’t appreciate being talked about as though I am not in the room.
I drop into a seat and lean closer, elbows on the table.
First, I speak to Noel.
“I liked Jack for a lot of reasons. How he cared for his brothers, this center. The way he always texted me good morning and goodnight. How he stayed strong in that courtroom. He was protective, loyal, and caring. A man I admire.”
Noel slumps in his chair, his expression half bitter, half surprised.
Then, I face Jack. It’s hard at first. Having him this close is intimidating.
Reflexively, I hold myself, insecure, but speak clearly. “You can also be a cold, stubborn, and incredibly closed-off man. Regardless, please tell me what Noel is talking about.”
He stares for a moment.
“Why are you here, Morgan? Leave before you bring more chaos into my life.”
His words hit like a slap. I’ve been exiled. His memories of me aren’t fond. They led to jail. I am nothing but chaos. Drama in human form. I wasn’t expecting that reaction.
Suddenly, Blake’s voice cuts through the air.
“Wow! What a lovely sight. All these beautiful faces. God’s children learning God’s word.”
The room turns his way.
My father appears beside him. He gives me a cold glare, then smirks.
As if Blake is his attack dog, he taps his shoulder once, triggering Blake to walk into the room.
Paul follows step, phone in hand, surely livestreaming.
“Today, Church of Redemption is visiting Center for Special Hearts to witness this Bible study.” Blake takes my hand like he owns me, beckoning me to stand next to him.
Like the robot I’ve become, I obey and he holds my hand as if I am made of glass.
