Page 52 of My Sweetest Temptation

“How’s Kara?”

Uncle Malik let out a heavy sigh. “She’s really struggling with the news of your supposed death. The last I heard, she’s been in therapy, and it seems to be helping her cope.”

My shoulders slumped and my heart sank, and a lump formed in my throat as I thought about her pain. I missed her so much, and it hurt to know she was suffering.

“But you know her. She’s tough,” he added. “Try not to stress too much. I’m keeping a close eye on her.” Knowing he was there for her, like a guardian angel watching over her, brought me some relief.

The phone beeped, reminding me that our time was up.

“You’re strong, Winter. More than you give yourself credit for. You will get through this; I promise.”

I nodded, even though he couldn’t see me.

“Love you, kid,” he added.

“Love you too.”

And then the call disconnected.

I was about to toss my phone aside and get lost in my violin when it beeped again.

Tabi

Hey! Can we meet for coffee tomorrow?

Me

Sure. Same place and time?

Tabi

Yes! See you then.

I turned the screen off only to hear a knock at my door. I pulled it open, grinning when I saw Liam standing there with his arms loaded, like a human snack tower.

“What is all this?” I asked, chuckling and pointing to the yum-yums in his arms.

Liam’s face lit up with a mischievous grin. “Netflix date night, baby,” he teased, juggling the snacks his arms.

“Well, I’m not going to turn down free food and fun.” I stepped aside to welcome him in.

Liam strutted to the kitchen like he’d done so many times and dropped a box of popcorn, a bag of M&M’s, Butterfingers, and Mega Stuf Oreos on the counter.

“Something’s missing,” I said, studying the items.

Liam pulled out two twenty-ounce bottles of Crush soda from his hoodie pocket and set them on the table. Then he pulled out a bag of gummy worms and tossed them in with the rest of the treats.

“Gummy worms are essential,” I joked.

“You know it,” he agreed with a wink, opening the bag and popping a gummy worm in his mouth, letting it dangle. He ripped open the popcorn bag, threw it into the microwave, and pressed start.

Leaning back against the counter, he crossed his arms. “So, how’s work treating you?”

“Good,” I responded, reaching for a large bowl and cups from the cupboard. “How about you?”

He shrugged. “Same shit, different day.”

I paused, a cup in hand. “You know, I don’t even know what you do.”

---