Page 122 of Shattering Nash

She grabbed the plates, walking them over to the small kitchen table in the corner. They ate in silence except for when Sal continually praised the meal. It wasn’t anything special, but he seemed to appreciate it.

Fifteen minutes later, Sal tossed the napkin on his plate and sighed. “That was delicious. Don’t be surprised if I show up again for lunch.”

“I’d like that.”

His gaze softened, and he cocked his head. He just stared, which after a minute seemed awkward. She nervously shifted in her seat.

“Is everything okay?” she asked.

“Everything is perfect.”

She smiled and reached for his plate, but halted when he rested his hand on her arm. He motioned for her to sit. And she did.

“You know, I’ve known Nash since he was a teenager. He tell you that?” Sal didn’t wait for a response. “Since the day I met that kid, he had this drive and unwavering loyalty. A commitment you don’t see often, especially in my line of work. So many people working their way up the ranks wanting to take over. When you get to the top, you’re always looking over your shoulder waiting on someone to try and take you down for your position.” Sal smiled, arching his brow. “Not Nash, though. Oz couldn’t have picked a better second. And you couldn’t have chosen a better man.”

A blush washed over her cheeks. “I know. I’m lucky.”

Sal straightened in his seat and raised his brows. “So is he, honey. And that boy knows it. I don’t think I said it, but I think it was brave of you to tell me and Oz about your brother. I know that was a lot considering the circumstances, but I respect you standing with him. Loyalty goes a long way in this world.”

Charley appreciated the compliment but…

“Probably didn’t make the smartest decisions.”

“Most of us don’t when our heart comes into play.”

So true, Sal.

“Anyway, speaking of your brother,” Sal sighed and reached in his pocket. “I got a friend who runs a facility in the next state over. Coincidentally, the one your brother is in.”

She gasped and widened her eyes. “What?”

“Yeah, I was surprised to find that out too. What are the chances?”

Uh, one in a million?How did Sal know which rehab Cody was in?I don’t even know.

It was on the tip of her tongue to ask how he knew but Sal abruptly cut her off.

“They usually keep patient information private, but I spoke to my friend.”

“You did?”

Sal snorted. “Of course. If he’s important to you, then he’s important to me. We’re family, right?”

“We are?”

Sal slid his hand across the table, gripping her hand. “Yes, we are, honey.”

She threaded her fingers through Sal’s. It had been a long time since she’d had anyone besides her brother. Even then, it was Charley taking care of him most of the time. This was new territory for her.

“My buddy’s got strict rules at his place. Never makes exceptions.” Sal released her hand and pulled out his phone. He tapped the screen, bringing it up to his ear. A few seconds passed. “It’s been a long time.” He smiled then let out a short laugh. “Well, I’m like fine wine. I get better with age.”

Charley smiled and sat back in her chair, watching Sal. He slid his hand over the table, nodding.

“So you know why I’m calling?” He paused, and his smile faltered. “I know, but I need you to make an exception this time.”

It was hard to follow the conversation without knowing who Sal was talking to.

“Make an exception.” Sal’s tone while still friendly had a commanding edge to it. “Appreciate it.”

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