“But when am I going to win?” I ask. “When is it my turn to be happy? When do I get to walk down the street with my head held high and not get pointed and stared at?” My voice quivers. “When is it my turn to walk into a place and have people greet me with a smile instead of a sneer?” He takes me into his arms now, and for the second time in two days, he holds me as I cry my fears and shame away.

Chapter Seven

Beau

I hold her in my arms as she cries, and nothing I can say will make her feel better.

When Jacob busted into my office and told me about the vandalism, I turned to my brother right away.

“If you did this …” I pointed at him, and he held up one of his hands while the other pinched his nose.

“I wouldn’t waste my time and energy on her,” he said, and I looked over at my father, who just glared at me. I turned and started to walk out when my father called my name.

“You aren’t leaving in the middle of a family meeting for ...” He looked at Jacob and then back at me. “That woman.”

Jacob was the one I had to hold back this time. “Let’s be very clear here.” My voice came out in a low growl. “That woman trumps both of you. So, to answer your question, yes, I am leaving because to me, she’s family.” I turned but only for a minute before turning back. “You need to get the fuck out of my office.” My father glared at me. “Now.”

“You’re unbelievable.” Liam held a handkerchief to his nose. “You wouldn’t even be in this office without him.” He pointed at my father, and I rolled my eyes.

“You wouldn’t be the worthless piece of shit that you are without him.” I pointed at my father. “Now get the fuck out.” I waited at the door, and my father reluctantly walked to the door, stopping to look at me.

“I would choose your side wisely,” he said under his breath.

“See, that is where you and I differ. I choose my family’s side,” I said. Leaning in, I whispered, “And her having my nephew means she’s family.” I shut the door and looked at Bonnie. “I don’t want anyone going into my office when I’m not here.” She looked at me and then at my father, waiting. “If that will be a problem, I can find someone else to take your position.” I didn’t wait for her to answer. Instead, I turned and walked out of the house and down the steps.

“Dude,” Jacob said from beside me. “I thought your father was going to …” He stopped when I turned around.

“I don’t care. What happened at Savannah’s?” I asked, and he looked down.