“Yes, of course. But what happened? Where is Bryant?”
“I guess we broke up, but I don’t think we were ever really something.” Tears came flooding down my face again, turning into uncontrollable sobs.
“I don’t believe that. Bryant loves you. You know, after our parents died, he gave up on dating. He never even looked at a woman. For ten years, he’s stayed away from relationships and commitment. He’s stayed away from women. Do you understand what I mean?” She didn’t give me a chance to answer before she started talking again. “Every year for the last ten years, on the anniversary of our parents’ death, he has gone to our parents’ graves and gotten so drunk that Trevor has had to pick him up and take him home. This was the first year that didn’t happen. Holly, I don’t know what he did to upset you, but I do know that my brother loves you, very deeply.”
“I just need a little time right now. I am going over to Mrs. Miller’s. Are you okay with watching Sophie?” Rachel nodded, and I left the apartment as soon as I could.
I didn’t want to think about anything other than my pain.
Bryant
From the moment Holly left, I felt like there was a giant hole where my heart should have been. I had no idea that my life was so empty until Holly and Sophie filled up all the hollow spaces.
Holly was mine, and there was no way I was going to let her go.
I had a plan, and I was going to get her back
Chapter Thirteen
Holly
The days came and went, and I still had not talked to Bryant. He kept calling, but I wasn’t ready to answer. My heart was heavy, and I wasn’t sure if I was strong enough to see his face and not fall desperately into his arms. I also wanted to have a good Christmas. Trevor had come by a few days ago with a check for the remaining $30,000. I really didn’t know what I was getting paid for. I wanted to give the money back, but Mrs. Miller told me I was being selfish. She pointed out that the money would help Sophie, and as much as it killed me to keep anything Bryant gave me, I knew how much good it would do Sophie.
Sophie and I spent all day decorating the tree, while Mrs. Miller cooked an amazing dinner.
“It smells incredible. Thank you for cooking supper.”
“Oh dear, cooking for you and my little Sophie is my favorite thing to do.” When we were about to sit down, there was a knock on the door. When I pulled it open, Bryant was waiting on the other side.
“You are going to talk to me, Holly,” he demanded and pushed his way into the apartment.
I could have argued, told him to leave, but the truth was I missed him. We needed to talk, and it looked like there was no avoiding it now.
Bryant
“This must be Bryant.” A sweet, elderly woman came out with a wooden spatula in hand, giving me the sternest look.
“Hello, Mrs. Miller, it’s lovely to meet you.” I extended my hand, and she ignored it. I had to admit, Holly was able to instill fierce loyalty in those who knew her. I couldn’t blame them. She was something fierce.
“Listen, young man, and you listen good. Holly is my family. She is like a granddaughter and daughter all rolled into one for me. I love her and Sophie more than anything else in the world. Don’t let this frail old body of mine fool you. You upset her again, and I will hunt you down and gut you like a fish.”
For a little old lady, she was definitely frightening. I liked her. Anyone who loved my girl this much had my respect.
“I never want to hurt or upset Holly, Mrs. Miller. You have nothing to be worried about.”
“Sophie, let’s make a plate and head over to my apartment and eat it while watching a movie.” Mrs. Miller called to Sophie, who came out of the kitchen and ran straight toward me.
“Bryant! Is Rachel with you?” Sophie ran over to me and wrapped her tiny arms around me. I wrapped my arms around her and squeezed. It reminded me that there was so much more at stake here than making Holly mine. This little girl was just as important, and I needed Holly to see that I would never hurt either one of them. I wanted them to be with me forever. As Mrs. Miller and Sophie left the apartment, I turned to look at Holly. She was so beautiful. I walked over to her and touched her cheek. I was relieved when she didn’t pull away from me. Then I got on my knees. Her eyes widened in shock.