Page 55 of One of Six

My jaw clenches at the thought of her, and it takes all my willpower to push her out of my mind before I become an embarrassment. Galen glances between Violet and me before shaking his head. I give him the finger and turn away. That's when I notice Essex standing off to the side.

I frown and walk over to him. "What's going on?"

"I want to be with her."

I follow his gaze and see Bea clinging to her uncle. "Has something changed?"

“She'd rather be with him than with Jason, who keeps sneaking up on her."

I snort. "I wouldn't worry too much. I'm sure she can stand up to him. She has a wild side."

He sighs. "I love her, Ridge."

I stare at my youngest brother and realize he means it.

"She's a good girl, E. Don't screw this up."

His eyes narrow as he looks at me. "What are you going to do with Violet?"

My eyes immediately go to Violet. She turns around and our eyes meet. "I screwed up bad."

"Yeah, you did." He nudges my side. "Mom's waving us over. Time to go."

Essex walks away, but I stand and watch Violet for a few more minutes. I can't put my finger on what it is about the girl that turns my head. I like women. A lot. The way they feel. The way they smell. The way they feel wrapped around my cock.

I’ve been okay with being the whore my brothers call me. It’s true. So, I didn't give a shit. Until now. Atilio warned me that it would come back to bite me on the ass. I wish I'd listened.

Nico steps in front of me. “Her parents are watching you."

I glance over his shoulder and curse as they shove her out of sight. "Shit! I was thinking about something. I should have known better than to get involved with her." I take a deep breath and exhale slowly. "I'm fine now."

I'm not sure if Nico believes me, but we make our way to Boone's truck. There are seven of us, and we split between Boone's and Mom's rides.

I slump in the back and watch as Bea steps off the porch of the funeral home with her dad, uncle, and Judge.

David Lincoln stays between Bea and Jason. "Why the fuck is that asshole still with Bea?"

"I heard Bea and Violet whispering to each other. Judge arranged it. Greenwood's a tool for hovering where he's not wanted," Boone says, heading for the church.

We were going to split after the funeral home, but we changed our minds. If anything, Essex just wants to be with his girl. I don't blame him. Bea is a nice girl. My brother even smiles for a change.

"Is your head still up your ass?" Boone laughs, his eyes on me through the rearview mirror. I shoot him the finger. He just grins and turns up the music, knowing he's won this round.

25

BEATRICE

I wanttoday to be over. There are a lot more people at Mama's church, which I expected, but having Richard and Judge picking on me all the time is driving me crazy. I'm still not sure what's going on with David because he's kept them away from me the best he can. I feel like I'm waiting for something to happen. I don't know how much longer I can bear this tension.

Seeing Essex and his family was unexpected but lovely and had lightened my heart. They all came to support me, and I don't think they know how grateful I am for them. I'd seen the longing on Essex's face to be with me. I don't trust my family not to harm the Redds. They're safe for now, and I'll keep them that way as long as I can.

Richard's angry with me because I didn't fall in line like I usually do. He's also angry with David. I'm sure the townspeople noticed that I wasn't sitting with Richard. I really don't care what they think anymore.

Now, at the graveside, I find it difficult to pay attention to the preacher because my anger toward Richard is growing. The man of the cloth speaks of someone being taken from us too soon. I hear that, and I make a point by glaring at Richard. He knows my eyes are on him because he’s flushed and tense with anger.

David whispers in my ear, "Don't Bea, please."

My eyes fill with tears, and I don't try to hold them back. David's arm slides around my shoulders. I accept his comfort and turn my face to his shoulder. Sharp words are whispered between him and his father.

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