Page 106 of Knight
“But I want to?—”
“Now,” I said.
“No, I’ll go.” Hollywood pivoted on his heel. “There’s nothing to talk about.”
He walked away, shoulders rigid. That was not a happy man.
“You should talk to him,” I urged Tex.
“Nah, he’s right. I’m not staying, anyway. No point dredging up shit.”
“Why did you come if you’re not staying?” I said.
“Had to make sure you were okay, didn’t I? You had my back last week.”
“I didn’t do anything.”
“You did enough.”
Matteo turned, waving a hand toward us, so we headedtoward the snack bar. We joined the others, lining up at the table to claim our share of pizza and soda before sitting at a collection of plastic booths.
Ghost sat on his own, as always. Hollywood slid into the booth behind him, brooding hard over Tex’s appearance. I grabbed a table with Tex, and Joyride joined us.
When we were all settled, Matteo got started.
“Well, we’re off to an interesting start today. I didn’t think we’d see Tex again.”
“Don’t worry. I’m just visiting,” Tex said. “I know I blew my spot in Redemption Road.”
Matteo looked pensive. “If you want back in, maybe we can work something out.”
Tex looked surprised. “Why would you offer that after I fucked off?”
“Because this program is about second chances. If you want one, we’ll figure out a way to make it happen.”
Tex glanced over at Hollywood, who was studiously staring at Matteo, giving nothing away. “I appreciate the thought, but I don’t think it’s a good idea.”
Matteo frowned. “If you change your mind, let me know.”
Tex gave a hesitant nod, still looking thrown by the offer. Had it really been such a surprise Matteo would step up for him? Or was it that Tex didn’t think he deserved it?
“Okay, then, let’s get on with the meeting.” Matteo shifted gears. “How about we start with you, Knight? I got a call from your parole officer, and your face is telling me the rest of the story.”
I winced. “Sorry I didn’t return your calls earlier this week.”
“That’s all right,” Matteo said. “You had a lot to deal with. But I think we should talk about your future and whether it’s wise to stay here.”
“What does that mean?” Joyride asked, bristling on my behalf.
“You’re going to invite Tex back while kicking Knight out the door?” Hollywood said, sounding indignant. “What the fuck?”
Tex cleared his throat. “I’m with Holly on this one.”
“You don’t get a say,” Hollywood shot back.
“He was agreeing with you!” Joyride protested.
“Matteo might be right,” Ghost said. His quiet, calm voice shut everyone else down. “He’s on the wrong side of a biker gang. That assault the other night was just the start. It’ll only get worse.”
