Reckless

She’s happy now, engaged to a man whose hair is far too long but who loves her in a way that I’ll never experience.

“Except me. I’m going to show up for her. Every goddamn time. So Kip, you’re fired. I used to like you, but I no longer respect you. And Geoff, if I could fire you twice, I would. You fucking suck.”

“Call your dog off, Eaton.” She keeps walking, only addressing Rhett, like I’m not even here. But goddamn, I love a challenge. I turn with a loud, “Woof!”

“No, I’m here because I wanted to kick your ass in person.

“You do know you’re in love with that girl, don’t you?” I flop down beside her and sling an arm over her shoulder, ready to get lost in the very best medical drama while sitting beside one of my favorite women in the world. “Yeah, Mom. I know.”

“She never told anyone because everyone always treats her like shit!” My fist slams down hard enough to rattle the table as I let them have it. “Her mom. You. Her shitty fucking ex, who is still harassing her. She’s convinced she needs to do everything alone because that’s what you showed her all her life. That no one will show up for her. That eve

“Out you go, Peter.” If looks could kill, I’d be dead now. Peter glares up at me—back rounded and one front paw lifted—while his tiny body shakes. Some people might think he’s cold, but I know better. That’s his small-man rage.

Theo snaps his fingers over the table, drawing his mentor’s attention back to himself. He went from looking amused to downright murderous. “Watch your fucking tone when you’re talking to the mother of my child.”

I break the tension with, “Is there a geriatric version of the procreation prowl?” This time, he doesn’t choke. He tips his head back and howls. “Girl, did you really just say that to me?” “Hey, if you’re gonna dish it out, you gotta take it.”