Page 135 of Best In Class
Jenn doesn’t say anything. Her eyes are unfocused, rimmed in red.
She’s high as a fucking kite.
Christ!
Luna was right. These people have money, but not an ounce of freedom. They’re trapped in a world of things they think matter—like money and property, and social standing. And the worst part is that they’re not happy. They’re fucking miserable.
Nathaniel points a finger at Lev. “I built this business?—”
Lev laughs. One short, brutal sound that cuts his father off. “You burned this business. You lost everything but the name. Luna and I pulled it back from the brink. You get your ten percent because I let you keep it. Don’t confuse that with power.”
I close the door behind me and set the racket ball gear on the floor by it.
I’m making enough sound that I am noticed but no one greets me.
Lev probably thinksmy friend is here, and I know he’s there for me.
Nathaniel probably thinks the help is here, and he doesn’t need to acknowledge me.
“You ungrateful?—”
“I’m done.” Lev’s voice drops even lower. “I’m done, Dad.”
Nathaniel, who has the EQ of slime, bellows, “What the fuck does that mean?”
“It means I’m done having a relationship with either of you. You need something, fend for yourself. Don’t come to my home. Don’t come to my place of work. I’ll have your ass hauled out.”
“I’m your father,” he roars.
Jenn lets out a soft sob.
Lev looks at her. Not Nathaniel, buther. His mother. The woman who disappeared in front of him slowly, year by year, until there was nothing left but pills and party dresses.
“You have a choice,Mama,” Lev says, and his voice breaks on the word Mama. “You can go to rehab. I’ll help. I’ll pay for it. I’ll drive you there myself.”
Jenn doesn’t speak. Her hands fidget in her lap, twisting the edge of her blouse.
“Or,” Lev continues, “you can keep living like this. With him. But if you do…I’m gone for good.”
Jenn looks up then, and there’s fear in her eyes—but not resolve.
Nathaniel scoffs. “You’re bluffing.”
“I’m not bluffing.” Lev turns to me, acknowledges me for the first time since I walked in. “Tell him.”
“Never known him to bluff, Nathaniel.” I cross my arms and lean against the door. “He’s the most loyal man I know. But even loyalty has a limit. He stayed for Jenn. He’s done with that now.”
Jenn finally speaks. “I can’t leave him, Lev.”
Lev flinches. “Then I’m leaving you.”
She gasps. “Baby.”
“I love you.” He rubs his face with both his hands. “But I can’t bleed for you anymore.”
And then he walks.
He brushes past Nathaniel like he’s invisible.
