Page 83 of Resilient Rhythms
“I just wanted to make sure you had all the information. Do you have any questions?”
“Not at the moment,” I say truthfully.
“I understand. Take some time, Mckenna, and I’ll reach out in a few days to check in.”
“Thank you, Laura.”
“You’re welcome, Mckenna. Take care.” She hangs up.
Mav’s still frozen in the kitchen entranceway, waiting.
“That was Laura,” I say.
“Yeah,” Mav replies.
“She heard that Bran pled guilty because his family, including his cousin Eric, pulled all financial support.”
“Thank God,” Mav breathes out. He closes the space between us and kisses me hard. “How do you feel, Mckenna?”
“I’m not sure,” I admit. “It’s surreal.”
“Yeah.”
“I’m relieved it’s finally over. And, I guess, shocked.”
“That’s understandable. It will take some time to adjust to this new normal.”
“Exactly. Let me call Dad.”
Mav nods and relocates to the living room to place an order with his go-to caterers.
“Kenny,” Dad answers on the first ring. “Any news?”
“Thirteen years,” I say, bursting into laughter. Then, I take a deep breath and recount everything May and Laura told me.
Dad whoops through the line, calling for Jeannie. Then, he promises to come to the brownstone tonight.
Because tonight, we’re finally celebrating.
Jameson, Levi, Derek, and Allegra roll through the door at eight p.m. with bottles of champagne, boxes of cupcakes, and noisemakers.
“I can’t believe it!” Allegra gushes, embracing me. “I’m so fucking happy!”
“You have no idea,” I say, holding on to my best friend.
“Best fucking news,” Levi agrees, kissing my cheek hello.
“I’m glad you got some justice, Kenny.” Derek wraps me in a one-armed hug.
“Thanks, Derek,” I say, patting his back.
Jameson’s eyes soften when he releases Maverick and spots me. “Kenny.” His voice is thick with emotion as he hugs me carefully. “You okay?”
“I really am,” I promise, touched by his concern.
But this group has been through so much with me. In many ways, they’re also getting some closure from this sentencing as well.
Dad and Jeannie arrive shortly afterwards. Mav has a delicious spread on the butcher block, courtesy of our favorite Italian restaurant.
