Page 95 of Paco
“And if you want to come sooner, break the lease and I’ll pay for the two months you have left.”
“You’re too good to me.”
“You’re my sister. We only have each other.”
“You’re the best brother. I may take you up on that offer.” A loud cry in the background. “I have to run. Tommy just woke up. We’ll talk soon. Love you.”
“Later.”
He put the phone down, a huge grin spreading over his face. Having Kendra and his nephews in Alina was something he’d wanted for a long time. Since Jesse was away so much, Paco didn’t feel comfortable with his sister living alone. Now, with her and the boys nearby, he’d be able to make sure they were safe, and he’d be able to spend more time with all of them.
The letters, notecards, birthday cards, and photographs were spread over his desk. He took out all pictures of his mom, his sister, and of him alone, then put all the photos of Cassie back into the envelope along with the letters and other writings. He picked up the envelope, shrugged on his leather jacket and left the room.
Pink, orange, and mauve streaks painted the sky as a few stars twinkled against the impending darkness to the east. His boots crunched under the frost covered ground as he made his way to the ash pit in the backyard. The chilled wind tugged at his open jacket and whipped loose hairs about his face. He threw the envelope into the pit then doused it with lighter fluid. Cupping his hand around a match, he struck it repeatedly until it lit then threw it on top of the envelope. A bluish-orange flame shot up, and he took a step back. Tiny black cinders danced above the flames as he watched his anger and bitterness burn away alongside the memories of Cassie.
After all this time, it’s finally over.
He turned away and sauntered back to the clubhouse.
