Page 55 of The Golden Boys
“It means you were the one who got Hunter into all this. You were the one who linked him up with your Uncle Paul, got him started on this path.”
I’m fighting tears, but I’m not so sure I’ll win.
“That’s what you think?” Ricky snaps.
“All I know is, Hunter used to be good,” I remind him. “Once upon a time, he was responsible, and then he got caught up with you and—”
“That’s what you think happened?” he interrupts again. “First of all, I’ve known your brother since we were little, Blue. So, your logic doesn’t even add up. I didn’t just come into the picture the day before Hunter started getting into shit.”
There’s a familiar pain in my chest and I know it well. It’s the ache of abandonment. The sting of loneliness.
“Now, I’ll be the first to admit I’m no angel,” he continues, “but I’ve only ever looked out for Hunter. He’s as much a brother to me as Shane.”
Guilt. It slams face-first into me, because I know what he’s saying is true.
At the first sign of water pooling in my eyes, I turn to walk away, but halt. In part because of the sudden, light hold Ricky now has on my wrist. But I’m also frozen in place because West is back, and his eyes are laser-focused right where Ricky’s got a hold on me.
Still sporting the all-black uniform with his number embossed in gold, right in the center of his chest, he doesn’t move. My guess is that he’s heading back toward the field where some of his team still lingers. But now, the only thing he’s aware of is me.
Something’s clearly sparked anger within him and I admittedly don’t understand. Is it because he wants to stamp out any sign of happiness in my life? And, in his mind, Ricky is a potential source of happiness for me? Something he needs to kill before I get too high and mighty, thinking I can have one single thing in this world without him screwing it up?
It’s the only thing that makes sense.
I’m lost in thought until Ricky’s hand slips down from my wrist, linking his fingers with mine. Cool gray eyes lock me in place, and I push aside thoughts of the brute seething behind me.
“I’m not saying Hunter was never good. All I’m saying is, I’m not the one who turned him bad,” Ricky declares. “Might want to look a little closer to home if you need someone to blame.”
I’m not quite sure what that means, but neither my pride nor my pain will let me ask. There’s a stretch of silence between us and when his gaze flickers over my shoulder, I know exactly who he’s staring at.
Frustration sets in and I snatch my hand from his, using it to wipe the tear that’s escaped.
“I need to go check on Scar and Shane. Anything else?” I ask, forcing my tone to go cold.
He’s quiet, like there’s something more he wants to say. “Nah, just tell Shane I won’t be home when he gets there. I have things to take care of.”
I nod but don’t say a word.
More than aware of both sets of eyes locked on me, I refuse to look at either. Ricky’s bike thunders when he climbs back on and revs it. Then, he leaves just as quickly as he swept in. I’ve already made up my mind to call and apologize later, because I know he catches the bulk of my bitchiness, but my emotions have to settle first. Even knowing he always means well, I’m honestly starting to resent him coming around. Simply because he never seems to bring any good news.
Ever.
* * *
@QweenPandora: What a game! As expected, our boys are off to a great start this season. With any luck, we’re on our way to claiming yet another state championship. If you missed tonight’s performance, don’t make that mistake twice. See you next Friday, Peeps!
—P
* * *
Chapter 18
BLUE
I haven’t seen Scar this happy in weeks. Yeah, she loved being at the game, but it’s also clear that we needed this time together. She misses me, hates that I’m away from home so much, but I never doubt that she understands why. It doesn’t go over her head that I’d be around more if I could.
First thing in the morning, I’ll be waiting tables at the diner, but tonight is all about her.
A phone call from Uncle Dusty takes us on a slight detour. It only takes him saying he’s made us dinner to bring home and we eagerly deviate from our path. Despite likely being overwhelmed with customers in my absence, he still made time to take care of us.