by Liz Lovelock
“Okay, you’re right.”
We order our meals and enjoy the rest of the afternoon. Hours later, I manage to stumble through my door with bags of shopping hanging off my arms. Spending today with the girls was just what I needed.
The minute I shut my door, my phone rings. I drop the bags and dig through my handbag to pull my phone out. Theo’s name lights up my screen.
“Hey, little brother.”
“What’s the deal with you and Craig? I thought you had divorced his sorry ass.”
My back straightens at his tight, unwelcome words. “I did. We’ve signed papers.”
Theo sighs. “Craig has been at Dad’s office every day last week, and Dad seems to have this deluded idea that you and Craig have sorted things out. Plus, I overheard him say something to Dad about how you and he are going away this coming weekend. That caught my attention, and I wanted to let you know.”
“Are you kidding me?”
“Nope.”
“I wish that man would just leave me alone.” My entire body tenses, and I start pacing the floor of my apartment.
“I’ll help you dig the damn hole.”
“He’s not giving up, Theo, and it concerns me. Is he going to become one of those stalker people who never lets their partner move on?” Fear rattles me to my bones. “I’ve heard stories, and it happens more often these days. Men can’t seem to let their partners go. I mean, he’s already somehow snapped photos of me on dates. What’s next?”
“What did you say?” Theo’s voice rises with each word. He may be younger than me, but he has the big-brother-protector thing down pat.
“Yeah, yeah I know. I’ve already told Vivian, and she’s taking care of it.” I feel like a broken record when it comes to this situation, but I guess it’s better that he knows.
“You need to be careful, Scarlett.”
“I am. I’m telling you guys; it’s not like I’m keeping it a big secret. You don’t think Dad would actually believe him over his own daughter?”
“Dad gave him a job—a good one, at that. One day, he’ll open his eyes to Craig and the type of person he really is.”
“That explains why he’s able to pay someone to follow me,” I reply dryly.
“If you need me to come stay with you, let me know. I want you to be careful. Perhaps you should mention this to Dad and bring a copy of the signed divorce papers for him to see. Dad does some stupid things, but stalking isn’t one of them. He was very curious about your friendship with big-time football superstar, Lachlan. What is the deal there?”
“We’re old friends.”
“You’re lying.”
“What?”
“Your voice rises a little when you tell a lie. It’s your telltale sign.”
I sigh. “Can’t get anything past you, can I?”
“Nope.”
I drop onto my couch and put my feet up on the coffee table. “Well, a couple of years ago, Vivian and I went to Vegas. You remember that?”
“Yeah.”
“I got married there . . . to Lachlan. We quickly got it annulled and went our separate ways, and now, here we are, four years later, apparently dating again.”
Theo is silent a moment before a low whistle comes through the line. “Damn, Scarlett. Can I be the one to tell Dad, and then maybe he’ll have a stroke?”
“Theo!” I laugh. “Dad is a jerk, but he’s our dad. He thinks the sun shines out your ass. Me, I’m his dreadful daughter who does nothing he wants her to.”
“Yeah, I know. But still, it would be hilarious to see his reaction.”
“Yeah, it would be. Can you keep your ear to the ground in the office, and let me know if you hear Craig is up to anything please? He’s making me nervous.”
“I’ve got your back, sis. I’ll talk to you later. I just needed to get the truth from you, and damn, I got more information than I bargained for.” He chuckles.
We say our goodbyes, and I’m left to my silent apartment. Dread fills my stomach. I’m not sure what the hell is up with Craig and his constant pushiness. Why can’t he understand we’re officially over?
I tug a shirt over my head and stumble out to my kitchen. “So, what’s up? What’s with the early phone call and now early visit?”
Wyatt sits at my table, his lips in a fine, thin line. Something is clearly wrong. His early-morning phone call was unusual. “It’s Levi.”
I stop and turn in his direction. “What’s he done?” I rub my hand over my face, now awake at the mention of Levi.
“He got arrested last night. He attempted to rob a gas station. I know you want to be his saving grace, but I think he needs to sit in there a while to maybe learn a little lesson.”
“Always the hardass, I see, Wyatt. He’s fourteen. He hasn’t got a good example in his life.”
“What about you? I thought you were both close. I know you have some connection with this kid, but do you think it’s smart associating with him when you have so much other stuff going on, like making sure you play your best and to get re-signed? You don’t want to have something mess that up.” He keeps rubbing the back of his neck.
“Wyatt, I understand all that, but I can’t turn my back on this kid. He’s in the foster system, and he’s already been abandoned once. I’m not going to do that to him.”
“His life isn’t your fault. Don’t think you can fix everyone, Lachlan.”
I grab my protein powder and start making my morning shake. “I’m being his friend. I care about this kid. I can’t walk away. If it means I lose money, then so be it. Levi’s life is more important to me than cash.”
“Pfft, you don’t fool me.”
“Wyatt,” I say, my tone full of warning, “take a step into his shoes and think about how he might be feeling. He could just be hanging around the wrong people. I want to help him.” What I’d really like to do is bring him into my home, but I choose not to voice that opinion with Wyatt.
Wyatt sighs, long and drawn out. “I understand you want to help him, but how can you when he doesn’t seem to care himself?”
I put my drink to my lips then pull it away. “I’ll deal with it. Give me the details, and I’ll get it sorted. You know, Wyatt, perhaps you need to step into the kid’s shoes and live like he does. From what I’ve seen, foster care isn’t fun. Some are lucky enough to find good families, but there are others who are just plain mean. Before I got involved with this charity, I didn’t understand. I had a house over my head and parents who looked out for me. I can’t even imagine how hard the world is for kids like Levi. So no, I won’t walk away. I’ll be heading to where he’s being held. Give me the information.” I take a mouthful of my shake, waiting for him pull his head out of his ass.
Wyatt runs his hand through his damp hair. “I understand it more than you think. But the kid has to choose to change, and I don’t want you caught up or damaged by some hothead who’s not ready to. I’ll send you the details.” Clearly unimpressed, he shuffles some paperwork aside on the table and studies one particular document. “Now, about your contract. I’ve looked it over, and it’s all the same. When the final paperwork comes through, we’ll get together with the big bosses and sign it.”
“Sounds like a plan.”
“Okay, I’ll let you get to practice.” Wyatt grabs his stuff from the table and heads for the door.
“Send that information, please. Also, I’m not going to practice today. I’ll sort Levi out first.”
Wyatt whirls around and takes a step in my direction. “Lach, he isn’t going anywhere. Let him sweat it out while you train.”
I shake my head. “No, I’m dealing with it now. I want the details, please. The quicker I get over there, the quicker I can sort this out.”
Wyatt pulls his phone from his pocket, presses a few things, and then my phone vibrates on the counter.
“Thanks. I’ll talk to Coach. I’m sure he’ll understand I’m going to be late.”
“All right, I’ll leave you to it. I’ll ta
lk to you later.” Wyatt exits, and I sigh. Levi, what the hell are you doing? How am I going to get through to him?
An hour later, I’m sitting in the waiting area of the police station. At least this early in the morning things seem a little slow. A lot of eyes have been cast in my direction, so I shoot a message to Wyatt.
Lachlan: You probably should have come with me. We may have some media issues.
Wyatt takes seconds to reply.
Wyatt: I’ll be there soon.
Another message comes through, and I smile when Scarlett’s name pops up on my screen.
Scarlett: Good morning. Hope you have a good day at practice. Did you want to come around for dinner tonight? Thought I’d get in and ask early just so you don’t go making plans.
I hit reply just as someone says, “Family for Levi Richards?”
I slip my phone into my pocket and stand. An old, grumpy-looking officer who appears to have eaten one too many doughnuts stands at the counter.
“Yeah, that’s me.”
The officer glances down at the paper then back up again. Recognition lights his eyes. “Of course, please come with me.”
I quickly step beside him. “Can you tell me what’s going to happen with Levi?”
“Because this isn’t his first offense, he could possibly get community service or some time in juvie.”
My stomach plummets to the floor. “Is there a way I can keep him out?”
“Know any good lawyers? That’s what this is going to come down to.”
“I’ll get that sorted.”
The officer opens a door and moves aside to let me enter first.
Levi stands as I do. “I’m sorry, Lachlan.” His dark eyes shine with tears, and there’s a bright-red shiner on his cheek which is smeared with spots of dirt.
“Don’t say sorry to me. What were you thinking?”
Levi hangs his head and remains silent.
“Levi, help me help you.”
I take a seat across from him, and a small tear slides down his face.
“My foster parents are placing me back with Child Services. I overheard them talking about it. I’ve always tried to be good, and I guess I felt worthless and wanted to give them a reason to do what they’re going to do,” he hisses as he curls his hands into fists.
My heart clenches, and I sigh. “I’ll figure something out, Levi. You’re not alone.” Turning to the officer, I say, “When can I take him?”
“We can’t risk him running off before his court date. He has to appear in a couple of weeks to sort this out.”
“Can you release him into my care? I’ll watch him like a hawk and make sure he makes his appearance.” Just as I finish my sentence, Wyatt is shown into the room.
“Can you give us a minute, please?” he asks.
The police officer nods and leaves.
Wyatt turns to me and gestures me into a corner of the room, his voice low. “What’s your plan here? You were right; there’s a sea of media outside. Someone has obviously leaked your picture to the press while you were in the waiting room.” He types furiously on his phone before glancing up again.
“I’m taking Levi with me. His foster parents are giving him back to Child Services, and I’m not having it.”
“Lachlan.” Wyatt sighs, exasperated. “You have no idea how to raise a fourteen-year-old. How are you going to manage everything? Teenagers are hard work. I don’t think this is a good idea.” His hushed voice is harsh.
“I see where you’re coming from. I really haven’t thought this through, but I won’t have him fall through the cracks of a bad system when I can provide him with the help he needs.”
“I really don’t think this is a good idea, but knowing you, there’s no changing your mind once it’s made up. I’m going to have to figure something out with the media. Their first thought is probably going to be that he’s a secret child of yours.”
I cross my arms over my chest. “I get that this is stressful for you, but put yourself in Levi’s shoes. Tell them the truth and really shine a light on a terrible system, and maybe something more will be done about it.”
Wyatt nods and moves past me to Levi.
“Are you all right?” He rests his hand on his shoulder and gives a squeeze.
“Yeah,” Levi mumbles.
“Shall we get you out of here?”
Levi nods.
“Okay, let’s ask the officer what we can do about this.”
We call the officer back in and ask about releasing Levi into my custody. He’s silent a moment and then nods his agreement. “Yeah, okay. He can go with you after I’ve spoken to the DA to let them know what’s going on, so take a seat, and I’ll be back shortly.”
Wyatt and I give him our thanks, then he leaves.
The metal chair scrapes along the floor with a loud screech as I pull it out and take a seat again. Wyatt remains standing and types on his phone. That thing is like an extra limb for him.
“So, tell me, Levi, why are you hanging out with those kids again?”
He opens his mouth, but I shake my head and continue.
“Don’t try and defend them to me. They’re not good for you.”
Levi’s brow furrows. “Lachlan, you have no idea what it’s like living in that neighborhood. How am I meant to escape when they’re there when I’m walking to school, or going to the gas station to get milk for Emily, my foster mom?”
“Is that what you were doing at the gas station?” Wyatt jumps in.
He nods. “Yes, and I told the police that, but they didn’t seem to want to listen. Apparently, the man working there said that he saw me talking to them, which I did. But I promise you I wasn’t involved.”
The weight lifts from my chest; he’s telling me the truth.
I reach out and grip his intertwined hands. “Don’t worry, we’ll sort this out. I know you’re a good kid, Levi. You’ve just had a hard life so far. I’ve got you.”
Again, he nods.
“Now, are you going to tell me how you got the shiner on your face?”
His fingers start tugging at each other, and he doesn’t answer me.
“Levi? You can talk to me.”
“It was my foster father,” he says, a quiver in his voice.
“What?” I attempt to keep myself together, but hearing his words makes me want to go to his foster father and punch him in the face. This isn’t right. Kids shouldn’t be treated like this.
“Yeah. He’s not a nice man, Lachlan. He doesn’t like me at all. Never hurts the other kids in the house.”
It’s this that makes the decision much easier for me.
“Don’t worry. I’m going to make sure you don’t go back there.”
Levi’s shoulders sag, and I’m not sure if it’s with relief or something else.
Wyatt walks around the table and places a hand on Levi’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. We’ll make sure you don’t have to go back there.”
His shining, tear-filled eyes bore into mine. “Where am I going to go? It’s not like there’s an endless supply of foster families.” Fear pours off this kid sitting helplessly in front of me.
“You’re going to come home with me.”
Levi’s eyes become wide as saucers.
I continue, “I’ll enroll you in a school in my neighborhood. But you have to promise me something.”
“Yes, anything.”
“You’re going to keep your nose clean and, please, for the love of everything holy, make new friends.”
“I won’t let you down.” He smiles the most heartwarming grin, and I know I’ve done the right thing.
Now, how am I going to become a parent as well as break this news to Scarlett?
I try to stare at my computer, but I’m once again drawn back to the blackened screen on my phone. I touch it, and it lights up. I glance at the clock on my wall. Lunch time. Surely Lachlan would have finished his training by now. I’m sure, to one of my friends, especially Dylan, I look pathetic, waiting by
the phone for him to reply when I should be working.
After the most amazing weekend filled with Lachlan and his amazing abs, I thought he’d contact me. Though, it has only been a day. Don’t read into it, Scarlett. He’s a busy man.
“I’ll just give him a quick call.” Picking up my phone, I hit his number. My heart hammers in my chest. I probably come across as desperate. I hit ‘end call’ before it goes to voicemail.
A knock at my door startles me from my paranoid state. “Excuse me, Scarlett. I’ve got a Dylan on line one for you,” my assistant announces.
“Okay, thanks.” I rush to pick up the phone and press the button for the line she’s on. “Why are you calling my work instead of my mobile?” I say without so much as a hello.
“Hello to you, too. I’m mixing things up.” She pauses then says, “Just kidding, I’ve misplaced my phone. I’m sure I left it at home, and of course, me being me, I haven’t memorized phone numbers.”
“I don’t think anyone does these days. I honestly couldn’t tell you Craig’s number by heart and we were married.” I laugh.
“Yeah, but were you really invested in that marriage?”
“Well, no, but hey. Anyway, what are you calling for?”
“Did you forget we have a lunch date?”
I smack my palm to my forehead. “Ah, yeah. Sorry. It must have slipped my mind. I’m on my way.”
“See you soon.”
I end the call and collect my things. I give my phone one more glance before stuffing it to the bottom of my bag so the urge to message him isn’t as strong. He’ll message me when he has time.
“Gee, Scarlett, who spat in your cereal this morning?”
My head comes up from staring at my still full plate, and I take in Dylan’s almost empty one. “Sorry. My head is somewhere else.”
“Yeah, I figured that. Is it Lachlan? What’s he done?”
“It’s more like what he hasn’t done. We had a really great weekend together, and I reached out to him early this morning and asked him over for dinner tonight. I haven’t heard back.”
