It’s a catch 22.
A knock on the door shakes me from my thoughts. I go to the door and open it to find Bash standing on the other side.
“You asked to see me.”
“Yeah. I need a phone.”
He shakes his head. Before he can voice his objection, I cut him off.
“I need to talk to my Uncle. Please Bash. It will make it quick. I just want him to know I am okay.”
“He already knows you are okay. I called him yesterday.”
“I want to assure him myself. He is the only family I have left, Bash. Please.”
My voice is pleading, but at this point it is worth it. Uncle Tony deserves answers.
His eyes soften as I can see he has caved.
“Fine, but you talk on my cell phone in my room so I know it is safe, on our end at least.”
I readily agree. I turn back and tell the girls I will be back as Bash leads me down the hall to his room. Once inside, he pulls a phone from his pocket and presses it into my palm.
“Remember, his phone might not be secure. Assure him you are okay, but don’t give definitive answers on what happened or where you are.”
I nod as I begin to dial his number. He answers on the second ring.
“Hello.”
“Uncle Tony. It’s me, Sof.”
“My goodness, Bella. Are you okay?”
“I’m perfectly fine. I just wanted to call and tell you myself.”
“Thank the saints you are okay. I was worried about you. Eddie told me a little of what happened at the restaurant and then Mr. Calatini called to tell me you were with him, but that’s all I got. I am thankful you are okay, Bella.”
I can hear the relief in his voice.
“I’m sorry it took so long for me to call. How are things at the restaurant?”
He chuckles. “You are your mother’s daughter. Always worried about silly things when more important things are going on. It is fine. We were closed today, but I have two new girls starting tomorrow until you girls can come back.”
“I’m sorry you had to close today. I know that can’t be good for your finances. I will work extra hard to make up for it.”
“No need, Bella. I am just glad you are okay. Here Gina wants to talk to you for a moment. She was worried as well.”
I am shocked as he puts her on the phone. Gina has been nothing but nasty towards me. She has never showed an ounce of care about me. The only thing she usually has to say is when am I moving out to which I always reply as soon as I can. Lord knows I didn’t want to live with her longer than necessary.
“Sofia. Is that you darling? Where are you?”
Her voice is sugary sweet. I have never heard the tone she is using. It sounds as fake as the tits on her chest. She must be playing it up for Uncle Tony’s sake.
“I am not real sure where I am. All I know is that I am safe. Thank you for being concerned.”
“Of course, honey. Come home soon won’t you. We miss you here.”
I roll my eyes at that one. Definitely a show for his benefit.
