Page 143 of Reckless Storm
“Wait,” I call out before he hangs up. “You’re not getting a dog, are you?”
“Nope. Not at this stage of my life.”
“Oh my God.” I cringe, covering my face as I audibly sigh. “Your parents watchedJaded Beginnings?”
“They sure did.” He chuckles softly. “They saw the trailer and I couldn’t stop them. They wanted to support you.”
My chest fills with nervous energy. “I appreciate that. But I’m not sure I’m happy about it.”
“Why? You were fucking phenomenal. And you’re going to be just as amazing inReckless Desire.”
My heart races as the nerves make way for a smile. “Thank you. Now get your ass over here so you can tell me what you wanted to say.”
“And celebrate.”
“And celebrate. See you soon.” I giggle before hanging up, but when Reed’s parents drift back to my mind, my smile fades. If his parents watched my film, does that mean they know about me? I mean, of course they do. It’s been all over the media—and Reed said they wanted to meet me—but do theyknowknow about me? Or have they been fed the same lies? I can’t imagine Reed lying to his parents, but I have no idea how he’s playing this.
I spiral a little as I wait for Reed to arrive. I’ve hit my limit on random emotions today and I’m ready to escape.
With the world believing Reed and I have been dating for a few months now, the concierge sends him up without question, and when I open the door, he pulls me into his arms, spinning me around in the hallway.
“Reed,” I squeal as my grip tightens. “I’m going to fall.”
“Not possible. I’d never let that happen.”
He comes to a stop and gently lowers me to my feet, holding me until I’m settled. “You did it, Hayls. You got the part.”
“We did it,” I correct him. “You deserve some of the credit.”
“Okay, fine. I’ll accept it. I never saw myself as an actor, but with you, it comes naturally.”
“I think it’s because we’re onlyhalfacting.” The words leave my mouth and I freeze, backtracking. “You know, since we’re good friends.”
Reed smiles genuinely and it takes my breath away. “Definitely. But either way, I’m excited for you.”
“Me too. And we can celebrate in a minute. First, what did you want to talk about?”
“You really can’t wait, can you?”
“Nope. Come on. I’ve already guessed it’s about your parents.”
“Yep.” Reed sighs, his demeanour suddenly changing. “It’s been over a month now and I still can’t convince them to take the vacation I paid for. Even after telling them about the money Jace willingly accepted. When they asked him about it, he said it was a loan and that he plans to pay me back. Then proceeded to make them feel guilty about that too, saying it’s becausetheynever loan him anything. And as much as it pains me…I can’t let my mother fall back into another state of depression. I refuse to do that to her.”
My heart breaks for him but I’m also a little enraged. “God, I wish we could do something about him. He deserves a wake-up call from someone not connected to your family. From me. A hard shake should do it, maybe even a strong knee to the balls.” Reed chuckles and though I know what he’s going to say, I’m glad I at least made him happy for a beat. “In all seriousness, Reed, what the fuck is his problem?”
“I wish I knew.”
“I mean this with all due respect, but has he ever seen anyone? A psychiatrist maybe? You mentioned he’s narcissistic, but I’m wondering if he’s a sadist too.”
“He’s both those things, Hayls. But he’s her son. Mom will never cut him out of her life. No matter what.”
“I hate that for her.” And Reed. I hate that for Reed. “How can I help?”
“Help?”
“Yeah. I’m here to help in any way I can. Isn’t that what you wanted to talk to me about? Please tell me you want me to hurt him?”
“Actually,”—Reed shakes his head, gripping the back of his neck—“I wanted to ask if you’d come with me.”
