Page 92 of Truth or Tequila (Grand Slam 1)

Chapter Thirty-Eight

seb

I made it to Michigan yesterday. Usually, by this time, I’m out on the water, fishing, but I can’t find enough energy to even do that. All I’ve been able to do is sit on the back porch and stare out at the lake.

Sophie’s still the only thing on my mind. I’ve been looking at my phone for days, trying to get the nerve up to text her. That’s pretty much all I’ve been doing since I walked away from her apartment about a week ago.

She made it clear that she didn’t want to talk to me, but I want to talk to her. I want to tell her about my mom. Tell her about everything—forever. I want to start talking and not stop until I’ve told her every single little thing that’s ever happened to me in my life. And then I want her to start talking and never stop.

Joe texted me a link this morning to a story about the Randalls. It reveals all their unsavory business dealings—focusing on a long string of payouts to women Gentry has harassed. Sophie was the source of that story and I’m worried about her. I want to protect her from them and from any person who tries to hurt her. I asked Joe to check on her. He said she’s out of town. He doesn’t know where.

I type “Can we talk?” into my phone for about the hundredth time. It’s the best I’ve been able to come up with. I’m trying to convince myself to push send when a text pops up from a strange number.

It’s Maisie. Just FYI, Joe told Sophie about your mom. I’m sorry you had to go through that. Sophie feels awful about not trusting you. I told her to call you, but she doesn’t think you’ll want to talk to her. I’m guessing that’s not the case…

* * *

Also, sorry about hitting you in the chest with my grocery bag. It was ice cream, by the way, not bricks. Chunky Monkey. It’s Sophie’s favorite flavor if you want to tuck that away for the future.

* * *

I’m getting married tonight in Chicago. Reception starts around 7pm at The Peninsula. Sophie doesn’t have a date. I know it’s late notice, but I’m wondering if there’s something you can do about that, Sep!!??!

I jump out of my chair so quickly that I knock my coffee onto the deck. I text her back immediately.

All I want to do is talk to her. That’s all I can think about. Headed your way. I might be late, but I’ll be there.

And, no worries about the ice cream, but maybe go with soft-serve next time. I still have a bruise on my chest.

As I run to the bedroom to grab my suitcase, I call Mom.

“Hey, honey!” She sounds cheerful. I’m guessing she hasn’t read the story yet.

“Hey, Mom.” I take a deep breath and exhale slowly. “The story ran today—”

“I know. We’ve already read it.” She sighs. “At least it’s fair. It doesn’t make me out to be any worse—or better—than I am.”

“Has anyone called you yet?”

“Not yet, but I’m guessing the sharks are going to start circling at some point. Everyone likes a scandal. We’re thinking about heading to the lake today. Is that okay with you? Or do you need some alone time?”

“That’s part of why I’m calling you,” I say. “Sophie’s best friend just texted me. She’s getting married in Chicago today and invited me to her wedding.”

“The friend invited you?” She pauses for a second. “Does Sophie know you’re coming?”

“I’m not sure,” I say, shoving my clothes into the suitcase. “I haven’t texted her because I don’t want her to tell me not to come.”

“Do you think that’s the best approach?”

“I’ve got to talk to her, Mom. I think I might be in love with her. I’ve never felt this way.” I sit on the bed and take a few deep breaths. “Am I doing the right thing?”

“Honey, I’ve never heard you this stressed out. You’re usually so calm about everything. You need to talk to her. Just go and worry about the rest later.”

“Okay, I’m not sure when I’ll be back. I’m sorry I’m leaving you right when everything’s blowing up.”

“Seb, I’ll be fine. Your dad and I will take care of each other like we always do. We’ll hang out when you get back. Leave the key under the frog. And if you work things out with Sophie, bring her back to Michigan. We’d love to meet her.”

“Okay. I will. I love you, Mom.”

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