Page 94 of The Pretender

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“Where do you think they get the inspiration for those movies?” Nonna asks.

“So, Nonna.” Brogan drapes their arm around their grandmother’s shoulder. “Are you low-key telling us that Grandpa faked his death?”

“Widowed me at thirty-two in a barn fire. We had a funeral and everything.”

“I take it your grandfather didn’t die young?”

Deo shakes his head. “He only died a few years ago and he was almost ninety.”

“My cousin is a genius.” Nonna pats my back. “Trust me.”

“I do.”

We drive back to the family compound with a plan that has me feeling hopeful in spite of how off the wall it is. There’s a chance I can stay with Deo, if he wants me to. I guess I should be brave enough to ask.

“Deo?”

“Hmm?”

“Thank you for coming and helping me out.”

He nods, biting his bottom lip. “This is a lot to process.”

“I know.”

“Not just you, but finding out Nonna is an OG.”

“OG?”

“Original gangster.”

“Got it.” I squeeze his knee. “Good to have in your corner.”

“For sure.”

When he doesn’t say anything else, I continue. “After this is resolved, I’ll understand if you want me to find a new place to stay. Maybe we can start over and get to know each other in a deeper way.”

Deo stays quiet, looking down at his hands. I guess his silence is my answer. I blew it with him. My only chance is to hope he’ll let me prove I can be good for him.

“Deo?”

“We’ll talk when we’re alone.”

I nod, saying nothing else.

By the time we get back, the sun is shining, bouncing off the snow to create a bright landscape. I wish I felt as relaxed as I’d like to be returning to this place I’ve grown fond of, but I shouldn’t get comfortable. For all I know, I’ll be sleeping on the couch from now on.

Brogan drives us to the cottage and the four of us file from the car to the living room. Nonna takes a seat on the couch and digs her phone out of her handbag.

“Get your things together, Balt. I’ll make some calls.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“What can I do?” Brogan asks.

“You and Deo are on standby. After I talk to my cousin, I’ll have an action plan for us.”

“Got it.”

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