Page 51 of Powerless

She clasps my hands in hers. “Do you remember when I came out and took you and Jennifer to dinner with the governor?”

How can I forget? You sprang a surprise visit on us, and we had to hustle to make sure you didn’t catch Kathryn and me. “I do.”

“I want to ask you a question, and I want honesty from you. Okay?” My forehead crinkles as I stare at her and nod. Where’s this going? “Are you and Kathryn together?”

“What?” Damn it, the crackle in my voice deceives me. “What do you mean?” I ask trying to even my voice.

“I noticed the way you looked at each other, but I pushed that aside when I took you and Jennifer to dinner. Although, now that I think about it, it makes sense. You and Kathryn had chemistry, you and Jennifer never did. So, I’ll ask again, are you and Kathryn together?”

Shit, this isn’t something I thought would happen. I can’t tell Mom about Jen because it’s not my secret to share. “The thing is—”

“Ah, I see,” Mom starts.

“Actually, you don’t.”

“How long have you and Jennifer been broken up?” I stare down at my feet as I release a small sigh. “Good Lord, tell me you weren’t cheating on Jennifer with Kathryn?”

Although this isn’t something any of us have discussed, I feel like I owe Mom some kind of explanation. “The thing is,” I repeat and Mom groans. “Jennifer and I tried, but it wasn’t working for either of us a long time ago. And I’m telling the truth when I say she and I are good friends.”

“What about Kathryn? I saw it, son. I saw the way you looked at her, and the way she looked at you. She and Liam where never together, were they?”

“No, they weren’t,” I admit. “Mom, I know this is going to sound crazy, but I love Kathryn with my entire heart. I can’t imagine myself ever being with anyone else.”

Mom’s brows rise as she stares at me. “I take it this relationship has been going on for longer than you’ve admitted to.” My jaw flexes as I hold in the lie. She pats my hand and chuckles. “The heart wants what the heart wants, darling. But I’m not telling your father. You’ll have to do that.”

“Kathryn and I were planning on coming back after exams are done and letting you both know. I’d appreciate it if you kept this to yourself. I’m sorry I’m asking you to lie to Dad.”

“I could see it then. You and Kathryn are meant to be together. You and Jennifer...” She shakes her head. “You didn’t move around her the way you do with Kathryn.” Mom cups my face and gently runs her thumb across my jaw. “You can’t help who you fall in love with. But I do have a question.”

“Which is?”

“Can you see her in the White House with you?”

“She’s the only one I can see in my future. Of course, Liam’s already claimed chief of staff.”

“Obviously he knows?” I nod. Mom chuckles and intakes a sharp breath. “Then he deserves chief of staff, especially considering he’s protected you, Kathryn, and Jennifer. He’s earned that position.” She stands and walks toward the door. “You already have something many politicians don’t.”

“Which is?”

“Loyalty and commitment.” She gulps and parts her lips. “I won’t say anything to your father, but don’t leave it too long either.” She opens the door, then turns around. “As long as you’re happy, son.”

“I am.”

“Good. Then for now, this is our secret.”

I close my eyes and bury my face in my hands once Mom is gone. She knew all along but never said anything. In my heart I know this is the right thing to do. I just hope Dad accepts this as easily as Mom. Maybe when he sees Kathryn and me together, he’ll be okay.

I can only hope.

16

BENNETT

“Are you sure you’re okay?” I ask Kathryn as we drive toward my house.

“You’re mom knows about us. I just hope your father handles it well.”

“He will.” I splay my hand on her thigh and give it a gentle reassuring squeeze. Kathryn looks out the window, but she’s wringing her hands together. “It’ll be okay.”

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