Page 78 of Vengeful Union

“I’m glad you’re home,” he says softly, and something clenches in my chest.

As much as I’ve always wanted out, as much as I’ve wanted a different life, I guess some part of me had always wanted this. I’ve always wanted my father to love me, despite knowing what kind of man he is.

It’s awful that it’s taken this to feel even an inkling of my father’s affection.

I nod, forcing a smile before heading back to the bedroom.

Lara lounges on the bed, wearing one of my T-shirts and reading a book from the library.

She looks up at me when I close the door, smiling. Her smile fades when she sees the look on my face.

“What’s wrong?”

I let out a breath and sit down on the edge of the bed. “My father’s planning a gala. Black-tie.”

She nods slowly. “So, I guess I’ll stay here with Raquel?”

I shake my head. “You’re coming along.”

Lara just stares at me, her eyes searching my face. “I’m going to leave the house?”

“He wants to parade you around,” I explain, taking her hands. “I’m sorry that we have to do this.”

She bites her lip. “I mean, I knew something like this would probably happen. It’s no good having me tucked away if he wants to piss my father off.”

“There’s something else.” I hold her gaze.

She tilts her head curiously.

“My father and his men took down The Pit this morning.”

She gasps. “The Pit? How... Did anyone get hurt?”

“I don't know. Probably.”

Her dark brows furrow together. “I need to talk to my brothers. Make sure they’re okay.”

“I still have my burner phone, but we’ll need to go back to the creek to be sure there’s no bugs.”

She nods, standing up and tugging on a pair of her shorts, tying up my T-shirt to expose her midriff.

I can tell that she’s anxious, and who wouldn’t be? The Pit has been a Burke family jewel for most of Lara’s life.

All I can hope is that no one close to her was hurt.

We’re in the golf cart on the way to the creek before she speaks up.

“Did you know about this?” she asks softly.

I swallow hard. “Yes. He told me this morning.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Her voice is still quiet instead of angry, more hurt than anything, and it makes my heart ache.

“I-I knew you couldn’t make any difference. I knew that it would only worry you.”

Instead of arguing with me, she just nods, her shoulders slumped, and I hate myself.

I could have told her. Could have at least warned her instead of dumping this on her like this.

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