Page 34 of Edging Obsession

“You’ve been living a lie, so I’m assuming there’s more to your identity.”

My arm wraps around Jules’ shoulders, and she hesitantly rests her head against me. “I haven’t been living a lie.”

Elliott cuts in and says, “Not telling us about all of this is lying.”

“There was no need to tell you about it. In the States, throughout the world, people know me as Miles Nash. I’m the drummer of a well-known rock group, The Coven. I left Germany five years ago and started a brand-new life for myself.”

“Without divulging it to us…” He narrows in on Jules. “And I’m assuming Jules didn’t know it either.”

“Would that change anything?” My question catches Elliott by surprise from the way he slumps back in his chair. “I don’t understand the problem. I’m known as Miles in the U.S. Being German or having a different name shouldn’t be a factor in our relationship.”

Jules’ parents watch us, each other, biting their lower lips, unsure of what else I’m hiding. Having found the woman who has their biological daughter, and flying them there, puts them in an awkward situation. If they fight with me, I could leave their asses anywhere, which I wouldn’t do. Then they’d either have to search for the woman themselves or go back home, which would leave Jules’ and my relationship shaky.

I break the ice again. “Let’s not fight about what I’ve said or didn’t say. It will never change the fact that I love Jules. She’s important to me. If we allow this argument to go on, neither of us benefits from it.”

Elise takes a sip of her drink and says, “I agree, except this lack of information has left me feeling apprehensive. We appreciate all you’ve done for Jules and us, but you can understand how learning you’re German and that you go by another name might leave us suspicious. On top of that, you tell us while we’re 30,000 feet in the air. On your aircraft.”

The woman has a point. “Jules is aware of my nationality, and that’s all that matters. Telling you about Germany and my given name would have compromised my identity. It’s a risk I can’t take, especially being in the limelight. The press would eat it up. Plus, it isn’t any different from someone picking up and starting a new life somewhere. That’s the point of not telling anyone. I wanted a fresh start.”

“From what?” My jaw tightens from the question. “Why did you want a fresh start?”

“It’s a private matter.”

We’re having a stare-down when Jules slides her hand into mine and says, “Mom.” When her mom shifts to her, she then glances at Elliott. “Dad.” She has their attention. “I love you both, and I appreciate your concern—”

“But.” Elise adds.

“But I love him.” Jules makes eye contact with me. “Miles has renewed me. Down on my luck, making poor decisions, it was Miles who took me in.” Before Elise could say anything, Jules continues, pointedly looking at both of them. “And you did, too. You’re my parents, so of course you’ve accepted me for who I am. There was no reason for Miles to. There’s no guide in navigating crazy.”

We all say together, “You’re not crazy.” This lightens the mood.

“Okay, unhinged.” She gets up and crouches between them. “I would never put either of you in danger. If I had the slightest knowledge or feeling Miles was dangerous, none of us would be here.” Jules takes one of their hands, kisses each, and pleads, “Please accept what Miles has and hasn’t told us. None of his actions warrant concern. Whatever reasons he has for leaving and changing his name are his business.”

Elise and Elliott sigh, lean forward, and kiss the top of Jules’ head.

Elliott says, “How did we get such a smart daughter?”

“How did I get so lucky to have you as parents?”

They turn their sights on me, and Elise says, “She’s right. I’m sorry.” She takes Elliott’s hand in hers. “We’re sorry. You’ve assisted all of us in these hard times.”

I nod, take a sip of my drink, and when I’m about to say something, my phone rings. Checking the caller ID, I stand and let them know I’ll be right back.

Heading to the back of the plane, I answer, “Was gibt’s?”(What’s up?)

My brother Johann asks if we’ll be able to meet when I arrive, and I tell him in the afternoon. We’re scheduled to land at 7:00 a.m., so I’ll need the morning to get everyone situated.

We hang up and I return to the cabin. Elise, Elliott, and Jules are talking and laughing. The atmosphere changes as we all apologize and forgive. Food is brought out, and they’re shocked by the upscale meal of steak, baked potato, vegetables, and dessert, which is Black Forest cake. Tired from their fill, Elise and Elliott stretch out in their chairs, and Jules snuggles into my side.

“Miles. I really am sorry—”

“It’s done, Jules. Let’s move on.”

She lifts in her seat to kiss my cheek and whispers, “I’m horny.”

We make sure Elise and Elliott are asleep, and I take her hand and lead her to the bedroom. Jules paws at my pants as I lock the door.

I catch her hands. “Assume the position.”

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