Page 168 of State of Suspense

Nick wasn’t surprised by Derek’s reaction. His longtime friend had witnessed the pain and suffering Nicoletta had inflicted upon her only child over the years. “Apparently, she wishes to make amends.”

Derek stared at him without blinking.

“I know what you’re thinking…”

“Do you?” He cleared his throat. “I apologize, Mr. President.”

Nick frowned at the formality. “Keep it real with me, Derek. I know what you’re thinking, and I’ve thought the same things myself, but I want to hear what she has to say.”

His friend finally blinked and looked away.

“Say what you want to say.”

Derek hesitated before he finally spoke up. “I hate how she treats you and how her behavior affects you. I hate how she’s never given so much as half a shit about you unless there was something you could do for her. I hate how she’s let you down your entire life and how you still hope she might someday change. She’s not going to change. She’s a grifter and a user and an asshole.” He stopped himself and seemed embarrassed by his outburst. “Sorry. That was probably too much.”

“You’re fine, and you’re right. About all of it. Of course you are, and I know all that. And yet…” Nick shrugged, feeling mortified by how he’d never outgrown his need for her love and attention.

“She’s still your mother.”

“Yeah.”

Derek sighed. “I’m sorry I was so blunt.”

“It’s fine. I always want to hear what you have to say.”

“It’s hard for those of us who care about you to see her hurt you over and over again.”

“I know, and it’s hard to be hurt, but something about this time feels different.”

Derek eyed him skeptically.

“And yes, I can hear myself, and part of me doesn’t believe it either. It’s possible her time in jail humbled her, and this lawyer guy seems very invested in her.”

“What’s his motivation?”

“Not sure, but he’s encouraged her to try to make amends with me.”

“Why? Is he trying to get to you?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Nick… Mr. President… Let me look into him and make sure he’s legit.”

“If you think that’s necessary.”

“I absolutely do.”

“Fine, go ahead. His name is Collins Worthy from Cleveland. Let me know what you find out.”

“I will.”

“Don’t look at me like you’re worried I won’t like you anymore because you spoke your mind to me. You know how much I value that, especially now.”

“I do, but I also know you love your mother, even if she doesn’t deserve it.”

“She’s but one small annoyance in an otherwise blessed life. Ever since I’ve had a family, people of my own who love me unconditionally, she doesn’t get to me the way she used to. Don’t worry about me, okay?”

“I’ll try not to.”

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