Page 97 of Perfect Rhythm

“Oh, wow.”

“Yeah, and it was before he proposed. It’s the reason he did it.”

My father frowned. “Really? I had no idea. When he asked for my blessing, he made it seem like the two of you were on the same page about everything.”

I rolled my eyes. “Of course, he did. Him asking me at your birthday dinner was his way of getting me to respond in his favor. He knew I would never make a scene in front of you.”

“Oh, baby, you could’ve told him no if you didn’t want to marry him. I would’ve understood. I may have had a few questions, but?—”

“And that was the thing, I knew you would have questions, and I was in no position to answer them right then. I was too upset.” I sighed. “Eli and I didn’t just break up because we had some minor disagreement. We broke up because he cheated on me.”

“Wait, what?”

I nodded. “You heard me right.”

“With who?”

“Nimah Watts.”

“That soap opera girl?”

“That’s the one.”

The only reason my father knew anything about Nimah was because my mother watched her soaps faithfully, and The Bridgewoods was one of her favorites.

“Your mother is going to be so upset when she hears this. Do you want to break the news to her, or?—”

“I’ll let you do it. I really don’t want to have this conversation again.”

“I understand. But you know she’s going to have questions. As soon as I tell her, she’s going to call you.”

He had a point. I really should’ve just waited and told them at the same time. But it was too late for all that now.

“I guess I’ll just cross that bridge when I get to it.” I sighed.

Shaking his head, my father walked around his desk and pulled me into a hug. “I’m sorry he did that to you. Is there anything I can do? Well, besides break his neck.”

“That’s actually what I don’t need you to do.” I laughed while still snuggled against his chest. “I’ve already had someone come pretty close on my behalf.”

“Really? Who do I need to thank?”

I paused.

Once again, I was met with the uncertainty of how much of my relationship with Shade I wanted to reveal. Other than knowing I worked for him, I wasn’t sure if my father was familiar with Shade at all.

“Um, honestly, it’s a long story and I need to get home.”

“Hmm...sounds like you’re hiding something.”

I jerked my head back. “What would give you that idea?”

“The way you tensed up when I asked the question, and the way you’re now in such a rush to get out of my arms.”

“That’s not true. I just?—”

He kissed my forehead. “It’s okay, baby. You don’t have to tell me anything. Whatever it is, I’m sure you’ll tell me when you’re ready.” He sounded just like Nani. “In the meantime, go home and get some rest. If you need anything, just let me know.”

“I will, Daddy. Thank you.”