Page 59 of Memphis

“He’s the one who’s done all the work. I’ve just been here for moral support.”

“You’ve been here for much more than that, and I appreciate that. I’m going to look into things with your father and...”

“About that.” I thought back to our last couple of conversations, and even after some pushing, he never would admit to having any issues with his finances—which led me to ask, “Are you sure you were right about all the money issues? He still hasn’t mentioned anything about it to me.”

“Wouldn’t have told you about it if I wasn’t.”

“So, what happens now?”

“We need to figure out what’s going on with him first and see just how bad things really are.”

“Okay, but I need you to know that Dad’s money troubles might’ve given me a little push to get here, but they aren’t the only reason why I stayed.”

“You don’t have to explain anything to me.”

“But I do.” I swallowed, hoping it would loosen the knot in my throat. “I’ve tried to hide it, but I care about Wes. I always have, but you knew that. It’s why you brought me here.”

“I brought you here to help my son, and you did that.” He stood and adjusted his leather jacket. “As far as I’m concerned, nothing else matters.”

“What about Wes?”

“What about him?”

“Are you going to tell him?”

“I see no reason to.”

“Really?” I pushed. “You don’t feel guilty about not being truthful with him?”

“I might’ve coaxed you into coming, but you stayed—even when you didn’t have to, and because of that, he’s up and walking again. If you see things differently, then do what you gotta do.”

He grabbed a biscuit from the plate and started for the door. Before walking out, he glanced back at me and said, “You did good, Antonia. I’m indebted to you, and that’s not something I say very often.”

“I’m glad I could help.”

He gave me a nod, then walked out and closed the door behind him. I took a few minutes to clean up the kitchen, and as I cleared the table, I thought about everything Preacher had said. While I was pleased that he was going to help my father, I wasn’t sure what it would entail.

I couldn’t explain it, but I had a feeling there was more to it than just financial struggles. I had no idea what that might be, but I trusted that Preacher would figure things out and help him. Once I finished putting the dishes away, I went to my room to get some work done. I’d almost finished my final report, but I needed some help from Mark to fill in some of the gaps.

Once I was settled at my desk, I grabbed my phone and gave him a call.

It only rang once when he answered and said, “I was beginning to think you forgot about me.”

“Not a chance. I’ve just been busy trying to get these reports and affidavits ready to send over. I just need some information from you.”

“Sure thing.”

We went over things, and as soon as I had everything I needed, I told him, “I will get these sent over this afternoon.”

“I thought you were coming in.”

“I am. But I’ve got a lot going on here, so it won’t be until later in the week.” I glanced over at my calendar before adding, “I should be there Thursday and will probably stay for Friday, as well.”

His voice was heavy with disappointment as he muttered, “Okay. Do whatever you need to do.”

“I’m sorry, Mark. I know I’ve put a lot on you, but I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t have good reason.”

“I know. You don’t have to worry about it.”

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