Page 58 of Hyde

“Chris,” I call out to Jasper’s oldest as everyone starts to drift away. He lets out a loud breath, looking like he’s dreading whatever I’m going to say, not that that stops me. “Your dad doing alright?”

“It’s Mom,” he softly replies. “Her mammogram wasconcerning. Nothing to be done until the next round of tests take place.”

“Anything I can do, you let me know,” I say, feeling the blow of that news especially hard.

It was Emma who spent long hours, not just with me, but with anyone who needed to prepare for the GED test. Once she dragged me over that finish line, she tried to talk me into taking college classes, but I never felt that was where I belonged.

“Just keep it between us, and hope it blows over.” With a nod to me, he turns to head back inside.

Once I’m alone, I click my tongue against the roof of my mouth.

A double click immediately reaches my ears.

“You can’t do that again, baby,” I tell Leslee when she steps from where she was eavesdropping in the shadows. “You’re wearing my cut now.”

“Will you tell me when you hear more?” she asks, instead of instantly promising me that she’ll respect her position.

“Yes and no,” I say, opening my arms as she comes to a stop in front of me. I kiss her to keep her from further questioning me. “Yes, about Trinity since you tazed her ass and she isn’t going to forgive that anytime soon. No, about the Navaja, unless I think you’re in danger.”

“Hmph,” she grunts, before reaching into her pocket. “I got you something.”

The lights from the parking lot reflect off of the silver chain that Leslee holds up, giving me a tentative smile. “I think this one is stronger than the original one I had. I mean, if you want to wear the pendant again?”

“Yeah, I do,” I answer before kissing her. “I got you something, too.”

“Oh! Can I see it?” she immediately asks, looking excited.

“Nah, this time I’m gonna talk to your dad first.” I answer, giving herthe motherof all hints.

Leslee lets out a squeal of excitement before jumping up and wrapping her legs around my waist.

There’s no disguising the happiness on our faces when we reenter the clubhouse and all I can do is hope this feeling lasts.

Even though I know nothing’s guaranteed.