Page 49 of By His Play

There’s a part of me that expects the soft voice of his assistant to fill the line. It wouldn’t be the first time he’s pawned me off on her, and I’m sure it won’t be the last. But to my surprise, Dad’s voice hits my ear.

"I’ve got a meeting in two minutes,” is his greeting.

My teeth grind with irritation as disappointment floods through me. I don’t know why I bother to hope that each time will be different. A deep growl rumbles in Kieran’s throat. I know his face is going to be tight with anger, but I can’t look at him for fear I’ll burst into tears again.

Be strong, Effie. You can do this.

“O-kay, well…I was just ringing to tell you that Grams p-passed in the n-night.”

Letting the words flow past my lips is akin to pulling my fingernails off. But I’m proud that I managed it with only a few emotional stutters.

“Thank you for letting me know. I’ll instruct Sharon to make the necessary arrangements.”

My chin drops at his coldness. It was to be expected, but still, I’m shocked.

Straightening my spine, I roll my shoulders back, ready to do something I’ve never done in my life.

Stand up for myself.

Or maybe for Grams; I’m not sure.

“No,” I force out. Surging to my feet, my hand slips from between Kieran’s and I begin pacing. “Sharon isn’t planning Grams’ funeral. She never met her. You don’t even know what she wants, so there’s no chance Sharon will.”

There is nothing but silence down the line.

Good. I hope I’ve knocked him on his ass.

“I’ll be planning Grams’ funeral,” I state, leaving no room for argument.

“Fine,” Dad says. “Just send me the invoices.”

The laugh that erupts from me doesn’t sound like my own.

“That won’t be necessary. I’ll just send you the date. Enjoy your meeting.”

Both my hands are trembling violently as I lower my cell and hang up.

My chest is so tight I can barely breathe.

But I did it.

I stood up to my father, and for once in my life, I didn’t let him steamroll over me with his own bullshit.

“Effie,” Kieran breathes, moving closer to where I’ve stopped in the middle of the room. “I’m so fucking proud of you,” he says, engulfing my small frame in a hug.

I suck in a deep, steeling breath as I replay the events of that short phone call in my mind.

“He was going to have Sharon plan it,” I whisper in utter disbelief.

I had every suspicion that he’d just throw money at it and make it go away. But to pass the entire thing off to his assistant...

“I know,” Kieran whispers. “You did so good, though. Grams would be so proud of you.”

I can’t help but smile. It feels alien after the last few hours of complete misery.

“She’d want me to do this for her.”

“Absolutely. You’re doing the right thing.”

---