Page 111 of Introvert

"No problem," Hayden said, passing the waitress his credit card.

"Thanks, I'll pay you back."

"No need."

"Yeah well,"Tony said with a broad smile. "I guessto a Davenport, paying for a meal like this is nothing."

"Like I said, it's cool."

As we walked out of the restaurant, Tony hung back to use the restroom.I tried to catch Felix's hand in mine—but as his father rejoined us, he let my hand fall, stepping farther away from me. I tried not to read anything into that.

Tony held up his phone and grinned. "Got that waitress's number."

"Poor girl," Felix mumbled.

His father shrugged."So, you guys must be bringing in a lot of money."

"We do alright," Ryker said.

Ascoff. "Alright? You sold out theRookery."

"Performed at a venue five times that size a week ago."

"Glad to see I raised two successful sons."

Felix made a noise in the back of his throat.

Santino stepped forward and tapped him on the shoulder. "Hey, we're going to head back. Give you some time to talk."

"We're done here," Felix said.

"Right. See you, Dad," Ryker said, but Tony put a hand on his arm.

"Hey, wait," he said.

Tony waved the others off, but by some unspoken agreement, London and I stayed relatively close.I just wanted to be there in case Felix needed me.His shoulders were tense, his eyesnarrowed. Felixwas strung tighter than a bow string. It was only a matter of time before he snapped.

"What's up?" Ryker said.

"Yeah, Dad," Felix said. "Why are you really here?"

"I told you already." Tony shrugged. "I heard about the show, came to see you boys."

"And?"

He paused a moment before replying."I also had a small favor to ask."

"Knew that was coming," Felix muttered.

"It's nothing big."

Ryker crossed his arms. "How much do you need?" he asked.

"Just $800," Tony said and held up his hands when both sons scoffed. "Consider it a loan. I'll pay you back, but I'm in a little trouble, need to pay off mydebts. You're doing so well now, thought you might want to help your old man out."

"I can't believe this," Felix said.

"Hey," Tony snapped. "Watch it.I'm still your father."

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