Page 38 of Creature's Vengeance

“Hi, Dad. You free tonight?”

“Sure. No plans.”

“I wanna bring by my girl.”

He chuckled. “She a good cook?”

I laughed at that. “Not sure yet. I’ll bring dinner.”

“I can rustle something up.”

No. He didn’t need to go through all that effort. It was too much for him.

“I got it, Dad. You feel like that Italian place you love? Or you want to grill some steaks with me?”

“Steaks,” he answered without hesitation. “And bring fresh mushrooms.”

“Loaded baked potatoes?”

“Any other way to have them?”

Nope. “I’ll bring what we need.”

“I can handle it. Don’t mind at all.”

I knew he didn’t. That wasn’t the point. “You’ve been taking care of me my whole life. It’s time I returned the favor and spoiled ya a bit.”

I could almost hear his smile. “Alright. I’m sold.”

“Good. We’ll be there about five.”

“See ya then.”

He hung up and I pocketed my cell, turning toward the kitchen. I could hear feminine laughter and wondered if Blair was having a good time. I hoped so. She needed it.

I only took a few steps when I saw a car pull close to the building and park. Phyllis exited and clutched her purse as she walked toward the door.

Shit. Was she here to check on Blair? Or did the Serpents fuck with her again?

I opened the door before she could knock. “Hey, Phyllis. You okay?”

There wasn’t a doubt when I got a good look at her face. She seemed upset.

“Come in. Let’s grab some coffee.”

She sighed, walking inside before I shut the door.

I gestured to the kitchen, and she followed, entering ahead of me.

“Phyllis!” Blair exclaimed. “It’s so great to see you. I’m glad you stopped by.”

I strolled in, approached Blair, and popped a kiss on her lips. “Phyllis isn’t here for a social visit. Something happened.”

Phyllis glared at me. Damn, that woman was spunky.

“I did come for a social visit and to check on Blair. That’s just not the only reason.”

Uh-huh.