Page 106 of Taking the Pitch
“His parents…weren’t the best. He came over one day and had scrapes, bruises, and a split lip. Mom took one look at him, grabbed Dad, and told us they’d be back. An hour later, they came back and told Garrett he would live with us from here on out if he wanted. It’s the only time I’ve ever seen Garrett cry.”
That day was the worst shape we had ever seen Garrett in. Kessler and I knew his dad hit him, but he always begged us not to say anything. I knew my mom suspected, but she didn’t have any proof, and she never wanted to make things harder on Garrett. His dad always left marks that could easily be covered with clothing until that day.
“As sweet as your mom is, I don’t think I’d ever want to be on her bad side. She seems like she’s a force to be reckoned with.”
“Shortcake, you havenoidea. Mom is scary when she’s mad. She doesn’t yell or scream. She’s quiet, and she has this look that can stare right into your soul.” A shiver runs through my body just thinking about it.
“I think our parents would have gotten along.” She says quietly, staring out the window.
Ever since the night of the attack, she’s been talking about her parents more. While I know it still hurts her to talk about them, it’s been really good for her too.
“If they were anything like you, I know they would have, Shortcake.”
I see her smile under the lights as we turn into the parking garage. I wave at the new security guard, then make a left towards my parking space. After the attack, security was increased, a guard was placed, and new cameras were set up. The guy who attacked Amelia had also broken into several other cars in our parking garage, along with a string of other apartment buildings. He’ll be going away for a while.
Once we park, I send her upstairs with the leftovers, while I take Bruno out to do his business one last time before we turn in for the night. While he sniffs around, I take my phone out and send a group text to Hazel and Charlie.
Me
I need your help with something and you can’t breathe a word of this to Amelia.
Hazel
Sir, yes, Sir. What’s the order sir?
I laugh and shake my head at Hazel’s reply. I’m typing out what I need when a text from Charlie hits the chat.
Charlie
Whatever you need Judd.
I was hoping she would say that.
Me
She let it slip the other night that her birthday was coming up. I want to plan a surprise party for her. Just close friends and my family. It’ll be at the penthouse. Do you think you can help with that? Decorations, food, desserts? You guys know her best.
Hazel
Does a bear shit in the woods?
Me
Uh, is that a yes?
Charlie
Jesus Hazel, can you just say yes like a normal person?
Hazel
What fun would that be?
I check on Bruno, who’s still sniffing around, marking spots here and there before bringing my attention back to my phone and typing out a message I know will make both women lose their shit.
Me
Great. I appreciate it ladies. I also have to add one thing. The party won’t JUST be a birthday party, but in order to make it work I’ll need you two to help me with one more thing… You in?
