Page 36 of Hold 'Em Tight

It's crazy to think so much has changed since that day. Pulling out my phone, my finger hovers over my social media.

I haven't checked it in a really long time, but I just need to know that he's okay.

I wish I didn't press the button.

“Fuck. Does he have no shame?!” Donny mutters, looking over at what I see.

Len is holding Missi's stomach, kissing her baby bump as she smiles at someone.

I press the button to turn my phone off and chuck it on the bar top.

“He doesn't love her, Teo. I still feel like something isn't right about all of this.”

I tune him out and order some shots of Tequila when the bartender joins us.

I don't waste any time downing them as soon as they arrive.

This afternoon was amazing with my girl, and I know I shouldn't, but fuck, I miss him.

The credits rolland Nando yawns. “I wish you could stay here forever, Teo. I miss you and Brenna so much,” he whispers, and I pull him tighter into my arms.

“Time for bed, baby,” Mama says, walking over to the couch and holding her hand out for my baby brother.

We played four rounds of Mario Party. Rylee and the others stayed for three, but after a while, I could tell they were over it.

Nando groans and complains, but he should know better than to argue. My mama might be small, but she's strong and feisty.

“Now, Fernando,” she scolds, and he grumbles as he gives me another hug, then stands and squeezes our mama.

“Tomorrow, can we go to the beach?” he asks me and I nod.

“Hey, before you go to bed, can you grab me a snack?” I ask, knowing that he will sneak one into his room for himself.

He gives me a big smile, then takes off for the kitchen.

My mama sits next to me. She hasn't brought up my last fight yet, but I have a feeling that's going to end. We've been living in a bubble, so to speak.

Not wanting it to pop, we've avoided any hard topics.

Nando tosses me a packet of goldfish and leaves the room. My mom sighs and rests her head on my shoulder.

I really don't want to do this right now, but it's time. I start off with a simple question.

“Have you heard from Brenna?” I ask and she nods.

“She called a few weeks ago actually. She broke up with that boy and wants to move out here. Work at the hotel. I haven't asked Maria yet though. She's done so much for us, I don't want to ask for more.”

“Rylee’s mom is amazing. I'm sure she would be okay with it, and the extra help here at the hotel is a bonus. Where is Bren now? She never called me.”

Though, when we last spoke, she told me she hated me and wished she wasn't my sister. But still, if she needed me, I would be there for her. She's my blood.

“Staying with her friend, Shelly. They are doing some type of grocery delivery service or something. I love my daughter, butshe can be so dramatic, and I don't want to cause trouble for Mr. Sanderson.”

“She's an adult. Maybe just have her move back home. It's safe now. You and Nando could return too.”

Sitting up, she tucks her legs under her long skirt and faces me, placing a hand on my cheek.

“I've been thinking about selling the house. We love it here in Florida. Nando has friends, and a great school. Besides you and Brenna, I don't have much keeping me in California.”