Page 60 of Unravelling The Hitman: A BWWM Romance

“I’m sorry, Mom. There’s been a change of plans.”

“What change? Honey,” she lowered her voice to whisper, “where are you getting all this extra money to vacation in San Pedro?”

“It’s not a vacation, Mom.”

“Then what?”

I swallowed and blurted, “I found a job.”

“Really? Where?”

“With a family that really needs my help.” I was stretching the truth a bit, but I didn’t want her to worry. “They want me to start tutoring right away. It’s an emergency situation.”

“Do I know them?”

“They’re white people, ma. You wouldn’t know them.”

“Are they nice?”

My lips buzzed as another memory of Deacon’s kiss descended. “Uh, yeah. Maybe a little too nice.”

“Huh?”

“Anyway, I just wanted you to know so you didn’t worry.”

“It’s all happening a little fast, but I’m happy for you. Even if it’s for work, you get to stay on a beautiful island for a little longer. Should I leave your dad for a quick minute and pack a suitcase?”

I gasped. In all the commotion, I hadn’t thought that far.

“Forget it. I’ll just send your clothes on a water taxi shipment. You said they wanted you to start immediately.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

“You’re welcome, sweetie. To be honest…” she hesitated. “I’m glad to get you away from here for a while. Your dad is spouting nonsense, but don’t worry, I’ll whip him back into shape.”

Emotions clogged my throat. “I love you, Mom.”

“I love you too, honey.”

“And,” I glanced at the mainland, “I’m working on another loan. Just wait. Dad will get his treatment no matter what.”

My mother said nothing for a few seconds.

“Are you still there?” I asked.

“I’m sorry, Angel. I don’t know what else to say. I’m so sorry.”

“Mom, stop apologizing. You haven’t done anything wrong.”

“A child should never have to bear this kind of responsibility for her parents. When I think about what you go through, I can almost understand why your father wants to—why he wants to go, but… I love him. I can’t let him give up.”

“And you won’t. I’ll do everything I can to get the money. I swear. Just wait, okay? I’ll call you.” I hung up.

Humphries cleared his throat. “What do you mean by that? What job, Angel?”

“Were you listening?”

He gestured to the bench. “It’s a small boat.”

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