Page 52 of Myla: The Hawthornes

“Well, I’m not going back outside tonight,” Aunt Ashley retorted. “So, you can share your bed with me anyway.”

Myla and I moved to the side as they passed us.

I jolted as Will nodded at Ashley and murmured, “Good to see you again.”

“Will,” Ashely replied, nodding back.

I was almost positive that I’d never introduced them.

“How the fuck do you know my aunt?” I asked in confusion once Aisling and our aunt started up the stairs.

“None of your business,” Will replied, not meeting my eyes.

“Oh, my god,” Myla muttered with a snicker.

“No.”

Myla laughed harder.

“Who the fuck cares?” Ronan said tiredly from his place beside the counter.

“I care,” Saoirse said, staring at Will. “How long have you known our aunt?”

“It better be more than what? Thirty years?” Myla said dryly. “He’s been with Aunt Molly forever.”

“Watch it,” Will ordered, looking at Myla.

“Just saying,” she replied with a shrug. “I’ve seen pictures. You were a stud muffin.”

“Oh, for fuck’s sake,” he grunted, staring at the ceiling as Myla giggled.

“This is fun,” Brody said sarcastically. “But can we get back to the fact that Aisling is either seein’ shit or I missed that fucker doin’ drive-bys all night?”

“He could be usin’ different cars,” Ronan said dubiously.

“Seems a little elaborate,” I muttered. “Plus, that motherfucker ain’t drivin’ anythin’ tonight.”

“How do you know?” Ronan argued.

“I know.”

“How?” he pressed.

“Wisht,” I barked. “Feckin’ hell, Ronan. Drop it.”

Myla stared at me wide-eyed.

“What?” I snapped.

I knew exactly what.

“Jesus, Cian, you need some sleep,” Saoirse said, her voice strained as she strode past me. “Your Irish is showing.”

It happened when I was upset. It hadalwayshappened when I was upset. When my emotions got the better of me, my father’s voice came tumbling out of my mouth.

“You good?” Myla asked me as Ronan stormed out of the room.

“I’m fine.”

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