“I don’t think she’ll agree. I had a choice.”
“No, you didn’t. Don’t be so hard on yourself. You’re always carrying the weight of the world for everyone. I’ve got your back, brother. I won’t let you down.”
“I appreciate it.” If Storm understood, then maybe my dad will too. “Call me tomorrow afternoon. Grizz and Toby should have some information by then.”
“Will do, Prez.” I ended the call, put my phone down, and then rubbed my eyes.
“Glad the truth is out.” Espada lifted his vast body out of the chair and lumbered away. “Buenas noches ese.”
“Good night to you too,ese.” I stayed put there for a while before going upstairs to Brynne’s room. I just needed some peace and quiet to help processeverything. I wouldn’t turn away from her now. I’d love her as best I could and prayed she could forgive me.
I entered the bedroom, closed the door, and locked it. She was sound asleep with the blankets at her waist, arms above her head.
I peeled out of my clothes, leaving my boxers on. As much as I wanted to make love to her, I was too fucking tired. But I’d be raring to go in the morning.
“Buenas noches, Bonita.”
21
Tina
I covered my mouth, stunned at what my husband had just said. Dorian had tried to kill Bruno and was now after Brynne? I didn’t doubt he attempted to kill my ex, but why would he want Brynne?
“I’ll ask you again since you can’t seem to form a response. Who is Dorian Adrienne to you, Tina?” He paced in front of me. “And why am I only finding out about him now?” he shouted.
I jolted on the bed and teared up. “Jesus, Raul. Why are you yelling at me?”
“Because I looked like a goddamn idiot in front of Storm and my boy. When Prez asked if you had mentioned Dorian Adrienne before, I had no clue who he was talking about!”
“I’m sorry, honey.”
“You’re sorry? Who is Dorian, Tina? Why is he after Brynne?”
“Maybe he’s trying to protect her from Bruno.”
“No. Track said she was creeped out by him.”
“He would never hurt her. I’m confident he wouldn’t.” Dorian adored Brynne. He doted on her. Spoiled her as if she were his own child.
“And how do you know him so well?” He narrowed his eyes like he had an idea and only wanted me to confirm it. So I did…
“We were in love a long time ago.” I sat straighter and found my grit. “He’s part of my past.”
“A part you never thought I should know about?” He shook his head in disbelief. “Why Tina? Why would you hide that from me?”
“Because of how you’re acting like a lunatic right now.”
He gaped and slapped his hand against his heart. “You injure me, baby.”
“Don’t you dare make me feel bad. I didn’t do anything wrong!”
“Except lie to me!”
“I did not! Dorian is my past and has been for twenty-two years!”
“Did you love him?”
“Oh, Raul. Why are you doing this.” I went to him and cradled his face in my hands. “I love you with my whole heart.”