Chapter 41
Today is my birthday and I can’t believe I’m eighteen. When I woke up this morning, I cried because my parents weren’t here to celebrate with me. I feel like I’m failing them. I’m still no closer to finding their killers.
I had a meeting with our family attorney. I asked Khalil if he wanted to go with me, but he said he was working on something and that he would see me soon. We’ve talked on the phone a few times and texted back and forth. He said he has so much to tell me, but he had to take care of some things first.
“Aluxis, nice to meet you. I’m Sampson.” The lawyer says, shaking my hand.
“You too.” Sitting down in the chair across from him.
“I know this is a sad day for you and you probably have so many questions.” I nod, confirming his thoughts. He slides a box towards me.
“I’ll give you some time and when you’re ready, just push this button.” He stands, walking towards the door, and leaving.
I open the box, revealing its contents. The guys couldn’t come back per the instructions left by my mom.Pulling out a locket, I open it, revealing my mom and a young Khalil. Tears slip down my face. She really was gorgeous.
Pulling out the envelope, I take a deep breath before ripping it open. It’s a letter in my mom’s handwriting.
Lux,
If you’re reading this, then I’m gone.
Don’t be sad for me, baby.
I know you have a million questions, so let me start with the beginning.
I sat there and read everything before I did what she asked, burning the letter.
When I texted him telling him we really needed to talk, he said he would see me on Sunday.
The guys are all in the living room, and when I enter, I stop in my tracks.
What the fuck.
“Happy birthday, princess.” Atti kisses me.
“What’s all this?” I ask.
“We wanted to get you some things. We know today was rough for you and we wanted to let you know we are here for you.” He says, taking my hand and walking me over to the couch.
“How’d your meeting go?” Locking eyes with Cade.
“It was overwhelming, but went fine.” I respond as the front door opens revealing Jo.
“Babe, can we talk right quick.?” The look on her face lets me know something is wrong.
“Of course.” I say, following her outside.
Once we are outside and away from the house, she stops to face me.
“What’s up, Jo. What’s wrong?” I ask.
“I know it’s your birthday, but I wanted to tell you.” She has sadness in her voice.
“Tell me what?” I can’t keep the panic out of my voice.
“I know who killed your parents.” The entire world stops as I struggle to breathe.
Looking up at her, “Who?”
Just then, she looks past me. I turn, finding the guys standing on the porch. I face her and she gives me a small smile.
“I’ll tell you tomorrow, okay? Let’s just get through tonight.” She hugs me. “I love you, babe.”
“I love you too, Jo.” Hugging her back, tightly.
This hug feels like a goodbye hug and not the I’ll see you later kind.