Cruel Water (Portland, ME, novels Book 2) by Freya Barker

Author:Freya Barker [Barker, Freya]
Language: eng
Format: epub, azw3, mobi
Tags: Abuse survivor, mature characters, PTSD, Portland Maine
Published: 2016-03-03T07:00:00+00:00

Ike

The drive to her parents’ house is quiet, both of us deep in thought. When I notice Viv wringing her hands in her lap, I reach out and cover them with mine.

“Nervous?”

“Terrified,” was the quiet answer.

When we pull up to the house, we have to park on the street, since the driveway is full. At least it’s good for a quick getaway. Looks like all the brothers are here already, and one I haven’t met yet, pulls open the door when we approach. With an eyebrow raised he pointedly looks at my hand, holding tight to Viv’s.

“You must be Nolan,” I decide to take the wind from his sails. Successfully, judging by the flash of surprise on his face.

“You have an advantage here. You seem to know exactly who I am, but I have no clue who you are.”

Ah. A challenge, and one I don’t even have to touch, because Viv instantly gets in his face.

“Knock it off, Nolan. I’m not some fire hydrant you need to piss on to mark your territory. Pretty sure the others have filled you in on exactly who this is, so back off.”

Apparently amused by his sister’s vehemence, he lifts his hands in a defensive gesture. “Whoa, little sister, no need to take my head off.” Then he turns to me and sticks one of them out. “You must be Ike. I’ve gotta say, I’m surprised you let my sister fight your fights for you.”

I shrug my shoulders and put a smile on my face as I stare him down. “I wasn’t aware I was fighting. Besides, I love seeing her in action.”

“Okay, knock it off, you two,” Viv interrupts. “We’ve got better things to do than to shoot the shit in the doorway.” With that she steps into the house, pulling me behind her, her hand squeezing the blood from mine. The whole scene gives me a first-hand look at how she covers up her fears and insecurities with her tough exterior.

In the dining room, Viv’s mother and other brothers are seated already, and a pretty brunette walks in from the kitchen with a tray. Setting it down on the table, she immediately reaches a hand to me.

“Hi, you must be Ike? I’m Lydia, Owen’s wife. So glad you could join us.”

From the angry scowl her husband throws her, it’s easy to see he doesn’t feel that way. All the more reason for me to clasp Lydia’s hand and smile at her. “Nice to meet you, too. I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot more of each other.” Viv’s mom looks a little uneasy, so I turn to her next. “Good to see you again, Mrs. Lestar, and I’m glad it’s under better circumstances.” That earns me a little smile.

“Have a seat,” Lydia offers, taking the empty spot beside her husband.

“Gentlemen.” I nod at the other three brothers before sitting down, trying to ignore the glares.

Viv pours coffee quietly, I’m sure to keep her hands busy, even though her mind must be going a mile a minute.

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