Page 94 of The Pretender

“Where do you think they get the inspiration for those movies?” Nonna asks.

“So, Nonna.” Brogan drapes their arm around their grandmother’s shoulder. “Are you low-key telling us that Grandpa faked his death?”

“Widowed me at thirty-two in a barn fire. We had a funeral and everything.”

“I take it your grandfather didn’t die young?”

Deo shakes his head. “He only died a few years ago and he was almost ninety.”

“My cousin is a genius.” Nonna pats my back. “Trust me.”

“I do.”

We drive back to the family compound with a plan that has me feeling hopeful in spite of how off the wall it is. There’s a chance I can stay with Deo, if he wants me to. I guess I should be brave enough to ask.

“Deo?”

“Hmm?”

“Thank you for coming and helping me out.”

He nods, biting his bottom lip. “This is a lot to process.”

“I know.”

“Not just you, but finding out Nonna is an OG.”

“OG?”

“Original gangster.”

“Got it.” I squeeze his knee. “Good to have in your corner.”

“For sure.”

When he doesn’t say anything else, I continue. “After this is resolved, I’ll understand if you want me to find a new place to stay. Maybe we can start over and get to know each other in a deeper way.”

Deo stays quiet, looking down at his hands. I guess his silence is my answer. I blew it with him. My only chance is to hope he’ll let me prove I can be good for him.

“Deo?”

“We’ll talk when we’re alone.”

I nod, saying nothing else.

By the time we get back, the sun is shining, bouncing off the snow to create a bright landscape. I wish I felt as relaxed as I’d like to be returning to this place I’ve grown fond of, but I shouldn’t get comfortable. For all I know, I’ll be sleeping on the couch from now on.

Brogan drives us to the cottage and the four of us file from the car to the living room. Nonna takes a seat on the couch and digs her phone out of her handbag.

“Get your things together, Balt. I’ll make some calls.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“What can I do?” Brogan asks.

“You and Deo are on standby. After I talk to my cousin, I’ll have an action plan for us.”

“Got it.”