𝘉𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘚𝘪𝘥𝘦 #1

13. Half-truth

Sexy Bitch (feat. Akon) – David Guetta

Our mini-vacation lasted a total of four days, not counting the day we arrived. We spent most of it exploring different beaches, searching for new spots and restaurants, while Leah joined us for a couple of hours before politely excusing herself, leaving us alone again. I owed that woman half my life.

On Sunday, before traveling back, we decided to stay in the suite, and I took advantage of cooking something. However, it couldn't be a typical Russian dish since Jack wanted me to be the main course, and of course, I wouldn't resist that. After all, I had tasted something from my country.

He kindly dropped me off at home from the airport that night, and we said our goodbyes before I entered. Dad was coming down the stairs as I closed the door behind me.

"So..." he commented, approaching to take my things and kissing my hair, making me smile.

"So, what?" I asked, amused, thanking him with a hug, and we both headed to my room.

"How was the trip?"

"Ibiza is beautiful."

"And the company?" He raised an eyebrow, setting my things on the bed and crossing his arms over his chest, adopting a protective stance. I laughed again, mimicking his gesture.

"Very good too."

"Hmm," he whispered, narrowing his eyes, "should I get my gun?" I laughed once more, rolling my eyes, and approached him for a hug, shaking my head.

"Not at all, Dad, he's just my friend." He wrapped his arms around me, kissing my hair again.

"A friend you see very often," he teased, looking directly at me, and I shied away, tightening my hug around him, hiding in his chest like I used to when I was younger. I'd been home for a week, but I couldn't blame him for saying that, considering he'd seen me go out two days in a row to meet Jack and then told him we were going on a trip.

"We're just very good friends," I agreed, patting his back before stepping away to open my suitcase and start unpacking. He remained silent, watching me intently as I moved around, studying my every move. When I finished, I turned to face him again. "Is something wrong, Henry?" I asked. Dad chuckled at my concern, shaking his head.

"Nothing, princess. But your mom called and said she's coming tomorrow." He sat in the chair beside my dresser, and my smile broadened. I was sure my face had lit up at the news. I sat on the bed, removing my shoes.

"For how long?" I asked.

"We'll stay a few more days and then head back home."

"I love it." I pouted, stretching my legs, and another silence fell between us. I sensed he wanted to say something more but didn't know how. That was an unhealthy habit I'd also acquired. So, I didn't press him.

"I'll go rest." He stood up and approached to kiss my forehead. "Tomorrow we have a meeting with Kevin, Chris, and—" He made a face—"Garret." I smiled just as my phone notified me of a message. He raised an eyebrow, but I avoided checking my phone, knowing exactly who it was. I shook my head, standing up to gently push him out of my room, amused.

"Get some rest, Dad. See you tomorrow."

Once alone, I changed into my pajamas and got into bed, checking the message from Jack: he'd arrived home, wishing me a good day tomorrow, and attached a YouTube link to David Guetta's "Sexy Bitch.":

Jack

I found the song for you, blondie.