Page 56 of King of Kings

“Miss the constant nagging and hits to my self-esteem? I can’t say I do,” she says, taking another drink.

I don’t say anything to that. I wonder what it must feel like to finally have that freedom? What it would feel like to live in a world where I didn’t have to do everything my dad says.

“What’s on your mind?” she asks, pulling me from my thoughts.

“I’m wondering what it would feel like to live in a world where I wasn’t under my dad’s thumb,” I admit.

“At first, it’s scary as hell. Then it’s like living a brand-new life. I highly recommended it,” she says.

“Maybe I’ll be able to give it a try someday,” I say.

Once we finish dinner, she insists on cleaning up. I can’t just sit around and watch her do it all, so I join her at the sink to finish up the dishes.

“Thanks for dinner. This was really nice,” she says, handing me the last dish to rinse.

“Thanks for agreeing to it.” I lean over, kissing her deeply.

“Well, what do we have here?” My dad’s voice sends a chill down my spine.

“What do you need, Dad?” I ask, pulling away from Sophia––when in reality I want to shield her from whatever he might throw at us.

“This is my house, Knox. You and your siblings seem to forget that,” he says, leaning against the doorway, smirking.

“You’re never here,” I point out.

“I came by to drop off some paperwork for you to look at. Who’s this?” He tosses the files down on the counter, nodding in Sophia’s direction.

“Sophia Turner. We’ve met, sir,” she says, putting her hand out to shake his.

“Harrison Turner’s daughter?” he asks, cocking his head, but I don’t miss the anger that crosses his face at the mention of Sophia’s father.

“Yes.”

“What are you doing all the way out here in California? Your family moved to Chicago years ago.”

“I’ve always considered California my home. I moved back at the first opportunity I had,” she says, crossing her arms over her chest.

“I see.” My dad turns his attention from her back to me. “I’ve arranged for Ted Johnston’s daughter to accompany you to the fundraiser tomorrow night. I trust you’ll show her a good time.”

He completely ignores Sophia, acting as if she doesn’t exist.

“I told you I have a date. I won’t be taking her anywhere,” I say, my jaw ticking.

“I didn’t think you were serious,” he says, his gaze flicking back towards Sophia.

“I am. I’m taking Sophia.” I wrap my arm around her waist, pulling her closer to me.

“I’ll let Ted know we won’t need Hannah tomorrow, but I’ll be sure to keep her on the list. Your mind might change once you see her.”

He leaves without another word, and as soon as the door closes, I let out a breath I had no idea I was holding.

“I am so sorry about him,” I tell Sophia immediately.

“What for? He’s a prick, sure. But you didn’t do anything wrong. There’s nothing to be sorry for,” she insists, cupping my face in her hands.

I don’t deserve this woman. I never have and I never will.

“Let’s go to bed. I guess I have to go dress shopping tomorrow morning.” She grins, leaning in for a kiss.

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