Page 96 of Payoff Pitch
She looks at me. “I don’t know how I feel. I’m sad, but she hasn’t been a real mother to us in such a long time. My father has done all the parenting for as long as I can remember.”
“How is he?”
“Kind of emotionless. I think he was in shock. I told him I’d call Kam. She’s not going to have a normal response,and I don’t want him to have to deal with her. I honestly don’t know if she’ll come to the funeral.”
“I’m sure she will. For your sake.” I don’t know if that’s true, but Bailey needs to hear it right now. “What can I do to help?”
She stoically responds, “I need to call her and pack. Would you mind changing my flight tomorrow morning to Florida instead of Philly? I also need to figure out my clothing situation. I only have winter clothes with me and nothing for the funeral. I guess I can buy something there.”
“I’ll take care of clothing for you, and I’ll change our flights. Don’t worry about a thing.”
“Ourflights?”
I turn to her. “Yes. I’m coming with you.”
“I don’t that’s a g—”
“I’m coming. Who knows what Kamryn will do? Even if she’s there, she’ll be a handful, and you’ll spend all your time taking care of her and your father. Who will take care of you? I want to be there for you. Harper is gone all week with Fallon. No argument. I’m coming with you.”
She nods as we pull into the driveway of the cabin. I quickly exit the car and walk around to help her out.
Once her feet are on the ground, she looks up at me. “I know we’re not really together, but I want you to know how much I appreciate this. It means a lot to me.”
I wipe her tear-covered cheeks with my thumbs. “No matter what we are and aren’t, I care about you.”More than I should.
I take her hand. “Let’s get inside and get everything sorted.”
We walk in and she holds up her phone. “I’m calling Kam. Wish me luck.”
“She’ll come. I know she’ll do the right thing.” She better.
Bailey nods as she disappears into her bedroom.
I first call Shannon and instruct her to take care of everything, including flights, hotel, car rental, and an assortment of clothing for Bailey.
I then text Cheetah.
Me: No matter what you have to do, get her to that funeral.
Cruz: She’s not emoting over this. It’s weird. I’ll try.
Me: I told Shannon to book us two suites at a nearby hotel. One will be in your name. If you need her to take care of anything else, just text her.
Cruz: Thanks, man. How’s Bailey?
Me: Worried about Kamryn.
Cruz: Sounds about right.
Me: Our flight arrives in the late afternoon. Get. Kamryn. There.
Cruz: I’ll do my best. Let me run. They’re getting off the phone. I’ll keep you updated.
Bailey’s still in her room when Fallon returns with the girls. She says to Harper, “It’s late. Why don’t you two get into your pajamas and brush your teeth? I’ll come read you stories in a few minutes.”
Harper’s little brow furrows. “But I want to make sure Bailey is okay.”
I reply, “She’s sad, honey. Why don’t we give her a little space tonight? You’ll see her in the morning before she goes. I’m sure she could use a big hug from you.”