Page 2 of Wicked Truths
Uncle Tony chuckles. “That’s what I said. He chose hockey over the family business, so that’s where his focus should be. If he wants to be involved with every business decision, then he should hang up his skates.”
“It sounds like Joey is trying to take on too much, but I don’t know all the details, so I can’t really give my opinion.”
“You can move back and demand a say in the business.”
I run my hand through my hair. “You know they won’t ever allow that to happen. In their eyes, women are just ornaments on their men’s arms.”
“That’s bullshit, and you know it. You are more than capable of running things.”
“I know that, and you know that, but they are stuck in their ways. You gave me responsibilities and let me go on jobs with AJ while they kept me in the dark. I’ll never be more than an inconvenience to them.”
“Francesca Louise Marino, I will not have you talking about yourself like that. You’re not some fucking inconvenience to your family. You are their daughter and sister. And more than that, you are a college graduate with a master’s degree with your whole life ahead of you.”
“I know. I was just saying what they think of me. If I had been born with a fucking dick, I would be part of their plans and discussions.”
“I don’t care if that’s what they think. I don’t think that way, and if your mother was still alive, she wouldn’t think that either.”
A lump forms in my throat at the mention of mom. The years keep passing, but living without her never gets easier. A girl needs a mom in her life.
Uncle Tony clears his throat. “Anyway, how’s the job search going? Have you found anything worthwhile up there?”
I shake my head even though he can’t see me. “Unfortunately, no, but I still have enough money in savings to not stress about the lack of jobs up here right now.”
“You can come work for me. No one has to know. You can even live with me rent free or get your own place.”
He yells at someone before apologizing.
“I’ll think about it. The offer sounds great, but I don’t think I can lie to Dad and Joey like that. I’m tired of lying.”
Lying has already ruined the best relationship I’ve ever had. I don’t want it tearing my family apart.
My phone beeps. Looking at the screen, I frown. “Hey, Dad is calling me now.”
“Take his call and think about what I’ve said.”
That’s probably all I will think about today. “I will. I love you.”
“I love you too, Principessa.”
I end his call and answer Dad’s. “Hey Dad, what’s up?”
His normal deep but calm voice comes through the phone. “I have some news to share with you, and a question to ask you.”
“Oh, yeah?” I try to act surprised, but I already know this call is probably about his latest multi-million dollar purchase.
“I have recently expanded the Marino business.”
“Like the family business?”
Is he planning on using the hockey team as a front?
“I just figured with Joey on the team, and with their losing seasons, it was time for a change.”
“Why buy a losing team, though? Especially a team Joey is on. Don’t you think players, press, and fans alike will think you’re playing favorites? Fan attendance is likely to be low as well, meaning less revenue.”
I pause for a moment and take the call off speakerphone. I don’t need my roommate and best friend, Mandy, overhearing.
Pushing the phone against my ear, I say, “Unless you are using the team for another reason.”