“Today is a big day, so you need to go with Daddy now,” Serenity tells her a few minutes later. She stands with her in her arms. This time she doesn’t turn away. “Be a good listener today, okay?”
Mila hugs her tight, not letting go.
“Tonight there’s going to be a big party to celebrate you getting to live with Daddy forever.”
I notice she leaves Mommy out of the equation. I’m not sure why, but we’ll discuss that later.
“A party? With cake?” Mila asks.
“I’m sure they’ll have that and more, because today is the bestest day ever.” She kisses Mila on the forehead. “Okay, you don’t want to keep the judge waiting. Go with Daddy.” She tips my sister into my arms, and unbelievably Mila agrees.
Serenity smiles, patting her back, and then her eyes finally meet mine. “Good luck in there today. I know everything will go your way.”
“You’re not staying for the party?”
She lightly laughs. “I’ve been to one of your parties. I think I’ll sit this one out.”
“I’m …”
She places her hand on my arm. “I’m only teasing. No need for apologies.”
“Serenity …”
“Bye-bye, sweetheart. Have fun at the party tonight.” She gives Mila another kiss on her cheek and then she walks away.
“Where’s Mommy going?” Mila asks, laying her head on my shoulder as she watches her leave the building.
“She’s going home.” I turn away from the glass doors, forcing myself to trust the process.
Chapter Thirty
Serenity
Every step I take is like trekking through thick mud as I make my way to my car. I head straight for the Cage, parking in the back alley in case any of the Bastards drive by on their way to the Trough.
When I step inside, Prospect looks up from the desk. “Holy shit! You’re back.” He truly looks surprised to see me.
“I need a room.”
“Yeah,” he says, jumping up to help me. “Lucky for you, it’s dead in here today.”
It will be.
“Perfect. I’ll meet you down there. I just need to use the restroom first,” I tell him.
He throws me a thumbs up. “Sure thing. I’ll be in room three.”
As soon as he disappears around the corner, I turn and lock the door, shutting off the open sign. I meet the gaze of a woman sitting in a cleaning service van. I chuckle at the tag line on the side:We’ll sweep you off your feet.
I use the restroom, and as I look in the mirror, I steady myself for what has to be done.
Prospect is waiting for me when I get to room three. He helps me into the coveralls just like last time. I stare straight into his eyes as he helps me with the gloves. “Gosh, you sure do remind me of someone. Do you get that question a lot?”
He smiles at me kindly. “No, not at all.” He reaches for the helmet under his arm. “I have to say, you sure look pretty, even in this suit. I bet no one confuses you for someone else.”
I dip my head.
“Shit, sorry. I know you’re Rage’s girl. I meant no disrespect.”