Twist of Fate (Kings of Chaos 6)

“I can’t have that talk like this. We will after I get my bearings back.”

“I can respect that. You know what you’re going to say?”

“No.”

“You want my advice? Spend the downtime you got figuring it out.”

His interest is odd. “You don’t usually get involved in domestic issues.”

“I saw her face. That woman loves you, and after all you been through, I’d like to see you happy. I think she can balance you out, fill that void you’ve developed. I’ve been around a long time, son. I know a thing or two. You ain’t been the same since your dad died. I think you’ve suffered enough for what you once were. Don’t make a habit of getting in the way of your own happiness.”

“How can she forgive something like that?”

“She may not. The only thing she needs to do is accept you’re no longer that person and want to move forward with you.”

I grunt. “You make it sound so easy.”

“Not easy, but simple. You lay it all out there and wait while she makes up her mind.”

“While I what? Twiddle my thumbs?”

“You’ve been lying to her for half a year. I think she deserves that at least. There’s nothing I hate worse than being lied to or manipulated. She feels betrayed. If you’re going to try to stay together, you need to realize that.”

“Since when are you so wise?”

He laughs. “Shit, this is just common sense.”

“Hmmm.”

He laughs harder. “I don’t envy you. Women hold a grudge like nothing else. You sure she’s worth the struggle?”

“Of course she is,” I say, irritated that he’s questioning her worth.

“Remember that.”

I see what you did there, Stone.

“I’m going to leave you in good hands. I’ve got a lot to straighten out. Think I might start taking my own advice after this”

“You going to elaborate on that?”

“Nope.”

I laugh as he pushes to his feet.

“Whatever goes down, make sure she knows our rules.”

“I will.”

***

She’s been quiet since we left the hospital. I miss the sound of her voice and constant chatter. I shift in the passenger seat and ignore the pain and stiffness setting in after the fight.

“How did you know where I was?” I ask, desperate to break the stifling silence.

“Joel. Why did he have my number?”

“We’ve talked about you before. He is my big brother.”