Page 133 of Renascence

CHAPTER 23

***Emily***

He’s here!

I run to the window, moving the curtain aside to watch him limp up the driveway. Excitement shouldn’t be bubbling in my veins, but it is. God, he’s a sight for sore thighs.Eyes.Fuck, I meanteyes.

He looks up, almost catching me, but I dodge just in time.

“Are you okay?” Mom asks.

“Yeah, fine.”

I almost jump out of my skin when the knock comes at the door.

“I’ll get it,” Dad offers.

I inch closer to the door, trying to hear the conversation.

“What’s wrong with you? Who’s at the door?”

“Mom, it’s Liam,” I whisper.

“Oh? Why doesn’t Frank invite him in?”

She wanders off, despite my efforts to keep her here with me. Shaking off my hand, she heads for the door.

“Liam! So nice to finally meet you. Why don’t you come in?” she says loud enough for the neighbors to hear. I giggle, knowing it’s for my benefit. I’m acting like a schoolgirl, but who cares?

“I’d love to, but I can’t stay, ma’am. I just need to talk to Emily.”

“Okay, I’ll get her.”

Mom walks into the room fanning herself. “Jeez, Emily. You didn’t tell me he was such a handsome young man. And so muscular!”

“Mom, stop perving.” I roll my eyes.

“Go, sweetheart. He’s waiting.”

I take a deep breath, wiping my sweaty palms on my jeans. He could probably hear my heart beating from a mile away, but I can’t let him see how his presence is affecting me.

As I approach, Daddy shakes Liam’s hand, then offers me a smile before leaving us. Liam cringes at the sight of me, but I know it’s because of the bruises. Once upon a time, I would have thought it was my face.

“Hi, Em.”

“Venom.” I try to act detached. He accepts it, shoving his hands in his pockets. “What can I do for you?”

“I came to apologize. I’ve been a dick—”

“You were a motherfucking asshole.”

“I was a motherfucking asshole, and I’m sorry. I don’t expect you to forgive me now, but maybe one day.”

“Is that all?” I ask, trying to keep hope out of my voice.

“I also want to do something for you, darlin’.”

“And what’s that?”