“Anyway some junkie broke into the house looking for some cash and I got caught in the crossfire.”
“Jesus, Kat. Where was Styx when all of this was happening?”
“At work. He works at Club Envy.”
“He’s also a little old for you, isn’t he?”
“He’s the same age as Diesel.” I shrug.
“I guess you haven’t exactly had a conventional upbringing. Would make sense that you’d end up in an unconventional relationship.”
“That’s not… it doesn’t matter. Things between us are done.”
“I sense some anger among all that subtext.” She arches her brow.
“It’s a long story.”
“Does it have anything to do with the other guy?”
“Turns out neither of them were who I thought they were.”
“Men,” she snorts. “If only they could catch a clue.”
“I’d appreciate it if you don’t tell Diesel or Mom.”
“Have you reported it to the police?”
“I don’t know. It was Styx’s house that got trashed. But the club tends to handle their own business.”
Except, Styx isn’t in the club and if he wants to claim this on his insurance, he’ll need to inform the authorities.
Ugh.
“I’ll talk to him and see what he plans to do.”
“Did you get a look at the guy?”
I nod, remembering his pockmarked gaunt face.
“You’re a witness, sweetheart. If your friend does report it, you might need to go in and give a statement.
I let out a small groan.
“Does it hurt?” she asks.
“Like you wouldn’t believe.”
Aunt Cassie chuckles, squeezing my hand. “You’re going to be okay, you know, Kat. We Walker women are tough as old boots.”
“Thanks for coming, Aunt C. I really appreciate it.”
“Oh, sweetheart. We’re family.” She smiles. “It’s what we do.”
* * *
The doctor discharges me later that day on the proviso that Aunt Cassie takes me straight home to rest.
Not that I have any desire to do anything else.