Page 126 of The Truths that Deceive

“Not enough.”

I flinch. “No. And I wish to fuck I could change you being taken, but I can’t.”

“That wasn’t fair,” she whispers. “What was Mom like?”

“Almost as beautiful as you, sweet and kind and funny. We were kids, but she loved you, and I’m betting she would have been the best mom ever to you.”

A small smile breaks out. “Jaxson tells me that things aren’talways as they seem. Maybe he’s right. Maybe you’re not so bad.”

“You turned out all right.”

Her smile grows a bit. “We’ll never be a conventional dad and daughter. We weren’t close, but maybe we can work on it. Your girlfriend?—”

“Not my girlfriend.”

“—spoke to me the other week. Told me about what you did, your sacrifices. H-how you put me and my safety ahead of a chance to be a real dad.”

Fuck me. I run a hand over my face. “My job’s always been dangerous, Dakota. I did what I needed to make sure people wouldn’t figure out that you’re mine. And if they did… you’d be fine. I’m only sorry I hurt you, but I’d sacrifice the world for you.”

She sucks in a breath and blinks rapidly. “I… please come to the wedding.”

“I’d love to.” A tentative smile comes to me, too.

“But one condition.”

I wait as she crosses to me and puts a hand on my good arm.

“What’s that?” I ask.

“Bring Calista.”

Long after she’s gone,Dakota’s words ring through my head.

Bring Calista.

She’ll be here. I could.

But I’m not going to. I don’t need to go… fuck, Dakota’s not going to miss me. I already bought them something outrageously expensive. That should cushion the blow.

I know if I invite Calista, she’ll get the wrong idea. Worse, Iwill. I don’t get attached, but she’s the exception making the fucking rule. Two seconds with her and I’m ready to throw around heart-shaped words and sentiments and offer to jump in front of all the bullets for her.

Like with my kid, I’d sacrifice everything to give Calista freedom, her safety. Happiness. A chance.

Unlike my kid, if Calista sticks around, I might go and fuck that up.

No, scratch that. I’ll definitely fuck it up.

I walk to the kitchen, grab Dakota’s empty glass, and pour in a healthy shot of scotch. Then I down it, the heat sliding through me, doing nothing to make me feel better.

Better’s the point. She’s better off without me. End of fucking story.

But…

I want her, not just for sex, but her, in my life, and that’s the most selfish thing I’ve ever wanted. I’m not giving in.

Jesus, I can’t. Right?

I almost jump at the buzzer. As I head to the door, I glance around, for whatever my daughter might have left.

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