Page 66 of The Way We Win

“Is that why you bought the house alarm?”

“Yes… And it’s why we have to use it.”

“You’re worried he might come here.” It’s not a question.

Nodding, I study my plate. “He said he’d be back. I don’t know what that means or what he thinks will happen.”

Austin scoots around, closer to hug me. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll protect us.”

My heart breaks a little. He shouldn’t have to.

But I do what I always do—try to find a silver lining in this shit-cloud.

I trace his wavy bangs off his forehead. “We’re in a good place, a safe place, where we’re surrounded by friends and allies. Garrett knows what to do, and Liv is prepared to file a restraining order. I just don’t want to give him an opening.”

Austin shakes his head. “Why would he bother me?”

“He probably won’t.”

I don’t want him to worry. I don’t want him to think about this.

I want him to have the best senior year with his friends. I want him to play football and be QB-1 and make all the good memories he deserves.

“That’s all.” I lift my chin, doing my best to smile. “As far as I know, he doesn’t even know where we live now, which means hopefully you won’t even have to think about it.”

His lips pull down on one side with a frown. “But you still think about it.”

Leaning forward I pull him into another hug, my caring son. “The Bradfords were all there when I got the alert on my phone, so they know. I’m not worried about your dad. I’ve dealt with him before. Hell, I used to live with the guy.”

“Before he went to prison.”

It’s a sentiment that makes my blood run cold, because it’s true. Rip was a hard man, wild and unpredictable before he was busted for dealing large quantities of drugs. I can only imagine what he’s like after seven years in Angola.

Sitting back in my chair, I level my gaze on my son. “Do something for me, will you?”

“Sure.”

“Live your life. Have the best year, and don’t let him stealanything from you. I’ll let you know if something changes. Can you do that?”

He nods, holding the table as he stands. “I’ll have a better year once this ankle heals.”

“It will, and Jack said you’ll have your time to shine. We’re just getting started.”

“Jack?” He cuts me a look, and I stand, carrying my mug to the sink.

“That’s his name, isn’t it?”

“Yeah. I just didn’t know you knew it.”

“Well, that’s silly, as long as we’ve all known each other. I’m getting ready for yoga class. I told Rachel I’d meet her at Miss Gina’s.”

16

Jack

“Apricot caught a chipmunk, Daddy! And she tore its head off, and she left the body part on the step for Aunt Deedee. There was blood everywhere!” Kimmie is wound up when I arrive at my family’s old house up the hill from Cooters & Shooters.

Dylan and Logan live here now, and it’s not far from my place.

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