Page 102 of Mind Maze

And I won that battle.

The war, though, is far more difficult. It’s a psychological war that I’m having trouble keeping up with. Neither Theo nor Romy are here. Kaitlyn isn’t either. As much as I want to demand answers, I know biding my time is smarter.

“Have a seat, Son,” Dad says from his perch on a love seat. “Join the conversation.”

Gideon rises from his armchair and walks over to the bar area. He makes a drink, presumably for me. I make sure to sit across from Bastian so I can admire my handiwork. The way he fists his hand over and over indicates the fury aching to be released.

I’ll beat your ass again. Try me, dickhead.

Gideon brings me a glass of what looks like bourbon. I don’t thank him. I’m on edge and defensive. Everything around me is unravelling and these men are at the helm. Letting down my guard would be a regrettable mistake.

It would’ve been nice to be offered lunch instead of a stiff drink, but beggars can’t be choosers. Besides, I could use the alcohol to relax me. I’m wired so tight, I think I might snap at any second.

“Where’s Megan?” Bastian barks out.

I down half my drink and shrug. “Don’t know.”

It’s true. I never asked Romy where she sent her off to. It doesn’t take a genius, though, to imagine she went back home toMississippi. If Bastian can’t figure that out on his own, I sure as hell am not helping him.

“Unbelievable,” Bastian growls.

I finish the rest of my drink. Gideon, all too eager to be a good host, takes my glass to be refilled. Dad’s gaze bores into me. After Gideon hands off my second glass, I turn my attention on my father.

He watches me with narrowed eyes that gleam wildly. I know the look. When he’s entertained or antagonizing or scheming, his eyes practically glow. This wouldn’t be the first time I’ve been staring into them when they’re aimed at me. It’s just been a long time.

I feel like I’m fifteen again.

But I’m not.

“Where’s Romy?” I demand, unable to keep the bite out of my voice. “Theo? Kaitlyn?”

Dad laughs. “There’s a fiery demon who hides behind that cool exterior. I told you, Gid.”

Gideon nods, smirking. Bastian continues to glower at me.

I’m not amused.

These two men, who days ago were nearly at each other’s throats, are chummy now. Just like last night. I’m on the outside. I’ve always been on the outside.

“Kaitlyn, as you know, has been through a terrible trauma because of her nanny,” Dad explains as if I’m a child who doesn’t understand adult words. It grates on my nerves. “Your brother has taken her to get some professional help.”

I stiffen, unable to keep my emotions at bay. “What?”

“Don’t worry,” Gideon says in a condescending tone. “Some children need psychiatric help and she’ll be getting the best there is.”

Ignoring him, I turn to glare at my father. “Why wasn’t I involved in this?”

“You’re not her daddy, Caius. As the child’s grandfather, I took responsibility of her mental health care. I assure you she’ll be as good as new before long.”

She’s not some car you take in to get restored. She’s a fucking kid.

“And Romy?” I ask, this time turning my attention to Gideon. “Where the hell is my fiancée?”

Gideon’s features pinch at the mention of her being my fiancée. I don’t give a damn what he thinks about this new level in our relationship. He clearly doesn’t approve. Well, I don’t approve of him either.

“There’s something you should know about Romy,” Gideon says gruffly. “Before you involve yourself in marrying her. She has…”

“Psychological problems,” Bastian chimes in. “She’s fucked up, man. Been that way since she was a kid.”

---