Page 178 of Twisted Collide

On video is my uncle, clear as day, from thirty seconds ago, and all that’s recorded is the blatant blackmail.

She smiles as we all listen. “Don’t get any big ideas. I’ve already emailed it to my Dropbox.”

“You bitch.”

I take a step forward, towering over my uncle. “And you’re a fucking loser. Stay out of my life. Anything I have ever done in my life was to protect my sister. I wouldn’t change one minute of mylife because when I look at her, I know it was all worth it to see the woman she’s become.”

Molly turns toward me and places her hand on my sleeve. “Let’s go, Dane. He’s no longer important.”

“I don’t think so. You don’t get to win, not again.”

“Yet you’ve never understood. It’s not about winning; it’s about love and family, and you have none. I wasn’t going to do this, but just know you have skeletons in your closet, and we own them.”

My uncle’s brows pinch in, and he looks at Molly and then at me.

“My sister is resourceful when she needs to be. Don’t test her or me. You understand?”

We don’t wait for him to respond.

Once in the car, Molly turns to me. “Why didn’t you let me use the evidence from when he hurt me?”

“Because that’s your story, Molly, and only you get to decide if you tell it. I’ll never make you do something you don’t want to do or are not ready to do. When the time comes, and you’re ready, I’ll be here to support you, and if not, I’ll still be here.”

“Thanks, Dane.”

“Anytime, Mol.”

“Now, let’s get you home to your girl.” We both laugh before driving off into the future and closing the door on the past once and for all.

80

DANE

Hudson:Daney boy have you been holding out on us?

Dane:I have no idea what you’re talking about. And I don’t want to know.

Hudson:My sources tell me you and coach daughter are an item.

Dane:Your sources are still searching for their two brain cells to rub together.

Hudson:Awkward. My source is your sister.

Mason:Backs out of the room slowly.

Aiden:Happy for you man. Josie is the real deal.

Dane:Thanks.

Hudson:Is it just me or has Aiden become a real sap since Cassidy and him got together?

81

JOSIE

“We needto go to your dad.”

“Do we really?” It’s all I’ve wanted for so long . . . then why am I so nervous? Because the truth is, I have no idea how my father will react. Even though Dane thinks of me as a hellfire, I’m really not. Just for him.

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