Chapter 53
I tiptoe into the kitchen and open each and every cabinet. I know I found the right one when I hear the pitter-patter of paws. Gabbing a handful of treats out, I jiggle them at a very eager Zeus and step backward. He follows me easily enough, so I lead him to Crue’s room, where I put the bone-shaped treats in a pile next to Crue. Zeus climbs onto the spot I just vacated and starts munching.
I kiss him on the head, then do the same to Crue.
I love you. I love you with all of my battered heart.
Out on the front porch, I make the call.
Despite the hour, he answers on the second ring.
“I’d like to revisit the terms of my contract,” I say before he can get a word out.
“You are in no position to make demands.”
“Tell me, Father, what other daughter will you get to do your bidding if I don’t?”
“Yours.”
I would sterilize myself just to keep that from happening. But since this is a negotiation, I go along with it.
“Eighteen years is an awfully long time to wait. Are you sure Munreaux Motorcycles has that kind of time?”
“What do you want?”
I’d let my lips curve if I had any feeling in them.
“Remember that million dollars you accused me of stealing? I want it. Upfront.”
“Do you think I’m stupid? The second that money hits your account, you’ll use it to run away.”
“It’s not going in my account.”
“Whose account is it going in?”
Less than thirty minutes later, I watch as my father lands his helicopter on the old wharf, the wind creating angry ripples in the water below.
“The fucking help, Never?” is the first thing he says to me in the headset. “My God, you’re a disappointment.”
“I won’t disappoint you in this, Father.” I look over at him. “It’s all I’m good for, after all.”
After a condescending shake of his head, we’re airborne.
I seek out that sailboat mailbox one final time.
Don’t look for me.