Zach.
The ringing continued while I stared at it, clueless.
“Pick up the phone, dude,” Kenzo hollered behind me, irritated by the noise the phone was making.
I swiped the green button to pick up the call and slowly brought the device to my left ear.
“Dad?” I said softly.
“Zach, I don’t care where you are right now. Just get back here because I need to talk to you ASAP.” His typical authoritative voice boomed in my ears.
I frowned. “What’s going on, Dad?” I asked, genuinely worried about the urgency in his voice.
“No time for questions, son. Just take the next available flight back home right now and be here in the next few hours. Don’t worry about the expenses, I will take care of it,” he barked at me, trying to stifle my protest.
My mind told me that something was wrong, but he didn’t want to talk on the phone. I wanted to suggest that he told me on the phone right then but knowing who my dad was, it would be a waste of time. So, I said instead. “Ooo-kay, Dad. But I’m with my friends and Blaire now.”
“Look, son, I don’t have time for your excuses. I want to talk to you alone and don’t take too long to get here.” His voice was stern. “I’m waiting,” he quickly added and hung up.
Nervousness washed over me like water flowing from a shower. Why now of all time? Why today of all days? It seemed like the universe was against me and Blaire today because everything just kept going from bad to worse in the last few hours since we arrived. My fear was heightened by the unfriendly tone he used on me. What could have happened?
I knew at that point, I had no choice but to heed his call. I may not be his blood, but I was still playing the role of the son that he never had. Everything else can wait. For now, home was calling me.
I turned my attention back to Damien and Kenzo who have been looking at me with intent. They were curious too.
“Guys, I’m sorry but I have to go. Dad wants me to come home right now,” I announced as I shoved my phone back into my pants pockets.
“Is everything okay?” Damien asked with sincere concern.
“No. I don’t think so.” I shook my head. “I need to go now,” I replied.
They both nodded. “A-ight,” Kenzo said and patted my shoulder.
“Please, I want you two to take care of Blaire while I sort something out with Dad,” I pleaded. If something was wrong at home, then Blaire should never be there to witness it. Shit might hit the fan, who knows. My baby girl shouldn’t have to witness it.
“I have to go now, guys.” I hugged them both, impatient to leave. I held Damien’s arms. “Please, Damien, take Blaire home and let her stay with you guys for a while until I’m sure the coast is clear. Will you do that for me, please?”
He looked worried. No traces of the previous anger in his eyes. “Sure. Anything for Blaire,” he promised with a nod and embraced me. I hugged him back, glad that he’s now outgrown his earlier childish upset.
I waved briefly at them as I rushed out of the spot. I wanted so badly to go back to the hotel to see Blaire and let her know the change of plans, but I couldn’t because time was running out. I still needed to book a flight back home and check out of the hotel. Also, her friends must have caged her in their room and warned her to stay away from me for now. What I wanted right now was to focus on the issue at hand and not cause her more harm. I hope she’d understand.
When I got to my room, the one I was to share with the guys, I fished out my phone from my pocket and searched for her contact. I typed a text to her when I found it.
Me: Hey, baby girl. Something just came up with our dad. I need to get back home and talk to him. Damien will take you to his home. I will come to get you there in two days. I want you to know that no matter what happens, you should remember that I love you.
I stare at her name on my phone. A lump forms in my throat. I bring my phone to my lips and give her name a kiss.
And then silently, I prayed hard to God and hope He listens to my pleas. I was praying for things to be go well between us. And I know… the thing I was praying for the most was…
Please! Don’t make me lose her!