Page 86 of Doc

Doc’s grin is sharp, but there’s amusement in his eyes as he responds. “Soren means the world to me, but duly noted.”

David nods and steps back again, pretending he can’t see the glare I aim at him. Instead, he turns to Cristian, who waves his son and Jude forward.

“I assume you know Roman, even if you’ve never met.”

“I’ve heard about him, yes.” The heirs give each other respectful nods before David turns his curious gaze on Jude.

“Jude Manassero,” he both says and signs. “I am…Roman’s partner.”

David smirks. “Well,” he signs. “The ASL makes more sense now. A pleasure to meet you, Jude…” He hesitates for a moment before asking, “May I be so bold as to assume you’re related to the Manasseros the Amatos are rumored to have eliminated recently?”

Jude grimaces but nods his fist. “You would be correct.”

David has enough tact to not ask for details, but he does nod to the cane in Jude’s hand. “I can introduce you to a greatinstructor who will teach you how to use that for more than walking, if you want. After all, you cannot be too careful.”

“We have it covered, but thank you for your concern,” Cristian smoothly says for Jude. “Please, let’s sit.”

We all find a seat, and it’s not much longer before James and Tennant return with trays of various drinks. How either of them knew what to order without actually asking, I don’t know, but I keep my thoughts to myself.

The conversation shifts once everyone is seated and has a drink in front of them, and for the moment, I can take a breath and pretend shit isn’t going to hit the fan sometime soon. Instead, I focus on colliding my two worlds together, while soaking up the simple pleasure of getting to show Doc off to this small part of our world.

MA

You can’t avoid him forever, Sory.

SOREN

I’m not avoiding him. I’ve just been busy.

MA

Don’t bullshit me, Synok, when I’m the one who taught you to lie.

SOREN

?? I have to go back to work, Ma. I’ll call you tomorrow. Okay?

MA

Sure, sure. I’ll be here, NOT avoiding your father’s calls…

SOREN

You can’t manipulate me

MA

Sure I can’t…

SOREN

Goodbye.

MA

Talk to you soon. Love you

SOREN

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