Page 38 of Obliterate

“Nash, darling. What a surprise to see you here,” I say breathlessly, trying to calm myself down for the scolding I know is heading my way.

He folds his arms over his chest, glaring at South. “Surprise isn’t the word I’d choose to describe what I just witnessed, Mom. Does Hurricane know you’re fucking making out with one of his men?”

Swallowing a lump in my throat, I sideways glance at South.

Nash said,‘Making out.’

Hopefully, that means kissing was all he saw. “No… he doesn’t. No one does because this is new between South and me.Pleasedon’t tell them. They will freak out.”

Nash lets out a small, incredulous laugh. “I can see why. The guy is practically still in diapers—”

“Watch it! I know you’re not part of the club, butI am. Don’t disrespect me, asshole,” South grunts out the words sitting taller.

I place my hand on his chest as he puffs it out in defiance. “Rome, stop. We don’t need to get unpleasant here—”

“Wait, Rome? As in Angus and Lucia’s kid from LA?Jesus, Mom!We all know him. He’s younger than Novah, for Christ’s sake.What the fuck are you doing?”Nash rants dramatically, but the accusatory tone hits exactly where it’s meant to.

My eyes flood with tears as I glance at South, his eyes desperate for me to defend our relationship—if that’s what this even is.

But I can’t.

Because Nash is standing right there, looking so terribly disappointed in me.

I have let Nash down.

My own flesh and blood.

A single tear slides down my face as I shuffle out of the booth and stand, moving in front of Nash.

His eyes on me soften as he notices my distress. “Oh, Mom… I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Sniffling, I grab his hands and look directly into his eyes. “I’m sorry I disappointed you. I never wanted to be that kind of parent. You got enough of that from your father. I’m simply trying to live every day in the best way I can, Nash.” My tears flow heavier now as I wipe them from my face.

Nash’s somber expression breaks my heart as he stares at me. “Mom? Is there something else going on?”

I should tell him.

But I’m too emotional.

And honestly, today has been such a rollercoaster.

I don’t think I can handle having Nash being upset at my diagnosis, either.

So I bring my hand up, gently caressing his face without saying another word, and then turn for the exit.

“Ingrid,” South calls out.

But I don’t stop.

And I don’t hear his footsteps following me.

I need to get back home, even if it means walking.

I need to get the hell away from here and this catastrophic fuck-up right now.

CHAPTER NINE

South

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