Page 34 of Always Love You More

“Fine,” Johnny says. “That’s more than fine. Seriously, thank you.”

Luke waves a hand. “Don’t thank me. I’m the one getting a good deal.”

My father stalks through the door. “What deal are you getting?”

Luke grabs a wrench from the pile of tools next to him. “Johnny’s kid sister is gonna start working the front desk.”

My father cuts his eyes to me, but I keep my face blank.

“No,” he snaps.

Luke looks up at him. “Excuse me?”

“I said no. I don’t want her working here.”

Johnny shifts uncomfortably.

“Didn’t ask you,” Luke says. “It’s my garage, and I decide who gets hired.”

My father scoffs.

“I don’t get involved in your business.” Luke gives him a hard stare. “Don’t get involved in mine.”

Johnny takes a step forward. “I don’t want to—”

“You’re not,” Luke dismisses him.

But Luke’s opinion isn’t what matters to Johnny. He’s not his boss, not really.

Johnny turns and looks at my father. “If this is gonna create a problem—”

My father stares back at him, the seconds dragging by before finally he grunts. “It’s fine.”

“You sure?” Johnny asks, and I internally cringe.

Slowly, my father tilts his head to the side. “Didn’t I just say it was?”

“Yeah,” Johnny answers, clearing his throat. “Just checking.”

“Well, don’t.”

Johnny nods.

My father’s attention shifts to me. He gives a pointed look toward the door, and I get up to follow him.

Once we’re in the back room, he grabs a piece of paper from his desk and hands it to me. I look down, seeing five names written messily, and my stomach sinks. Next to each one is a number.

He leans against the desk. “I want you with Marcus on this.”

I tuck the paper into my back pocket. “Got it.”

“If they don’t have the money today, let them know this is their final warning.” He watches me carefully. “Make sure they’re motivated to pay, yeah?”

“Yeah,” I answer.

“Good. Marcus is waiting by the car.”

I turn to leave and make my way outside, silently hoping those five names have the money.