I don't want Dad to get hurt - but I don't have that kind of money.
The mean guy reaches inside his jacket and pulls out a card. He slides it across the bar to me. “Here. In case you change your mind and need a way to contact me.”
I look down at the card. Phoenix Winters – that is one badass name.
He turns and leaves, not before giving Declan and the other guys a slow obvious look.
Tom whistles as soon as they leave. He was uncharacteristically quiet the whole time. “Jesus Christ, you could cut the atmosphere with a knife.”
I smile at him. “I'm sure it’s nothing - it'll work itself out. I am going to see Dad tomorrow anyway after work. I will have to let him know that I won't be giving anything to anyone.”
“Girlfriend - you have problems.”
I smile. “Nothing I can't handle.”
I can handle them, right?
I look at Dec, who is watching me. He raises his eyebrows, “You alright?”
I nod, “Yeah, same old, same old. I'm unfortunately getting used to my dad dropping me in it. If my mum could see him now – if she were here, she would sort him out.”
I wish mum were here. I don’t want to be the grown-up, Mum always sorted everything out.
He smiles sadly. “I'm sure she would. We’ll think of something. We’re going home together tonight - you’ll be safe with me.”
“Thanks Dec, bet you're thrilled you got mixed up with me.”
“Stop it, I've told you, it’s nothing. You need help, I’m here.”
I feel safe with him—one hundred per cent. I need to be careful that I don’t feel too safe and get used to him being there for me.
Chapter Five
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DECLAN
