Page 9 of Jasha
Adam quickly snatched a warm Christmas cookie from the plate before leaving the office.
Kaleb went to the kitchen to see if Jasha was there, but he wasn’t.
“Have you seen Jasha?” he asked Miss Nadia.
“Yes, he was plenty angry too. He went upstairs.”
“He might be angry, but I’ll change that. We’re going to go skating, then Arlo and his boy, Frankie, will be here for dinner. He might like Frankie.”
“What’s not to like about Frankie?”
“Exactly. Jasha feels like a prisoner right now and I want to change that.”
Kaleb left the kitchen, climbed the stairs, and knocked on Jasha’s bedroom door.
“Come in.”
He opened the door and Jasha and Daisy were on the bed. “Daisy seems to like it here.”
“If she’s with me, she’s happy.”
“How would you like to go ice skating on the lake?”
“No skates.”
“Mr. Wells bought a new pair for you this morning. Can you be ready in an hour?”
Jasha nodded.
“Good. Meet me by the front door then.”
Jasha nodded again. Not much for talking. He was clearly still angry about his situation.
“Hand me your phone.”
Jasha retrieved his phone from the bedside table and passed it to him. Again, he said nothing.
“I’ll be giving you a new phone to use, so no one contacts you.”
“Please don’t throw it away. It has everything I need.”
“I’ll keep it until your father pays me, then you’ll get it back.” He really wanted to say,when you become my boy, then you can have it.
Chapter Six
Jasha
Jasha played with Daisy and made sure she had what she needed. While he was having breakfast, someone had changed the cat litter and filled the bowls with fresh water and food. There was also a dry food container. At least Daisy was happy. The sound of a gentle tap echoed at the door.
“Come in,” Jasha said.
“Hi! I like your Christmas uniform.”
“Thank you, Jasha. Mr. Bronson is very particular about the holiday festivities. I came in here to let you know Mr. Bronson said Daisy may wander into the house. She doesn’t have to stay in your room.”
“He did?” Jasha was astounded to find a kind bone in Mr. Bronson’s body. That man had a dual personality, like Jekyll and Hyde. His father hadn’t seen the good side of him, nor did the Russian immigrants living in Brighton Beach.
“Yes, he always loved animals as a child, but his parents wouldn’t allow it. I’m glad you brought Daisy with you, and I know he’s pleased with her being here.”
