“Not really.” I try not to grimace.
“I thought you liked Carlo.”
“I mean, he was nice the few times I met him.” I don’t think being nice is a good enough reason to marry someone, but I don’t say that to my dad. Plus, everyone is always nice to me because of who he is.
“He would be faithful to you.”
“Because he wanted to, or out of fear?” I’m surprised to find myself challenging my dad.
My eyes flicker back to the blue-eyed man. He’s no longer staring in my direction, and a weird disappointment curls inside of me. Clearly, I’ve been isolated for too long because I’m trying to get the attention of a ruggedly handsome convict.
“Does it matter?” he asks. “He would be loyal to you, and he comes from a good family.”
I hate that he’s pushing this, and it scares me. Does he think he’s never getting out of here and now he needs to find me lifelong protection?
“Dad. I know you’re only bringing up marriage because you’re worried about me, and I get that. But I just can’t. I want to be with someone who loves me, and not out of obligation.” I smile softly and shrug. “You can blame yourself for that one.” Then I touch my locket to drive home my point. The way he always speaks of Mom is what I want from a husband. I want him to be loyal to me because he wants to be and because I’m his entire world.
“I know but…” He trails off, sitting up straighter, then tilts his head like he’s listening to something.
As I follow his line of sight, I swear I hear someone whisper my name. There are two inmates talking between tables, which I know is against the rules. At the same time, they both glance my way and one smirks. Then he winks at me, and my stomach turns.
When I look back at my dad, his whole demeanor has changed. “I think it’s time for you to go, sugar.” I shouldn't question him, but I only get a little time with him each week, and I don’t want to go already.
“Why? I still have time.”
“You motherfucker!” It’s shouted across the room, making me jump.
An inmate springs to his feet and tackles the man that smirked at me. I look around, expecting the guards to come rushing over, but they don’t.
Instead, all hell breaks loose.