My Life With a Gangster

CHAPTER 6

LEXI

Over the last few days, I have been talking to Grace. At first it felt a little awkward but now it's starting to feel normal again. We have caught up on so much, including some kind of bonding (I guess you could say) over the loss of our parents. I think maybe, it has brought us closer and in the same sense gave her a better understanding of what I have been through. I haven't talked to her about a lot of stuff because I'm still being cautious about what parts of myself I give to her. I don't want to give to much and it back fire in my face. Like for instance, she doesn't know I live in New York or what I went through with Tommy. She also doesn't know my mom is still alive and I'll probably keep it that way since I haven't even come to grips with it yet.

But its been challenging not telling Kole about it yet. I usually tell him everything. I think I'm going to bring it up to him at some point today and Alaric and Laurena so I can get their genuine opinion on whether I'm making the right call or not. Especially know that I'm starting to care again and kind of want her back in my life. I trust their opinions more than anyone else.

Once I finally went back downstairs after breakfast and my physical therapy routine I made my way to Koles office. I did a light knock before entering, finding everyone in there. They all looked at me as I walked in.

"Sorry am I interrupting something?" I asked curiously as I glanced around the room.

"No sweetie just talking about work that's all" Laurena replied.

"Can I talk to you guys about something? I really want your opinion on it" I asked nervously.

"Of course baby, what's up?" Kole replied with a warm smile.

I hesitated for a moment then took a seat on the spare sofa chair. I don't know why I was so nervous to talk to them about it. Maybe that was a sign I shouldn't be talking to Grace again. I cleared my throat a little before I started explaining things.

"Well, I've been talking to Grace again. She reached out and apologized. It seemed genuine and for the last few days we have been catching up a little and I think I want to give her a second chance. But I still don't trust her all the way especially with a lot of my and our personal business. And before you ask babe, no she doesn't know where we live or about my mom. I guess I'm just asking you guys if you think I'm dumb for wanting to give her a chance and if I should or not." I rambled out.

The room fell silent for a second before anyone spoke. Which, made me even more nervous than I already was.

"I'll start" Laurena said. "I support whatever you want to do honey. I know you love her and she was your best friend for a long time. I would just say move with caution and don't let your guard down fully. I do think you have been through enough to now have an understanding of what people are capable of and willing to do no matter who it hurts."

"Thank you for that" I replied with a small smile.

"I'd have to agree with her." Alaric said. "I personally do not like the girl but I love you like a daughter and I know things with girls, especially your age are a little different. Just be safe and know you can come to us about anything no matter what it is." He finished with a smile.

I almost teared up at his response. He is the strong silent type but when he really cares, you can tell.

"Well—" Kole started to talk before I interrupted.

"Kole I'm sorry. Grace reached out the day you asked who I was talking to and I lied. I love you and respect you enough not to lie to you and I honestly don't know why I did it. I hope you can forgive me from keeping it from you the last few days. I wanted to tell you so many times I was just nervous I guess." I expressed with sadness in my voice. I'm disappointed in myself that I kept it for as long as I did.