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"Thank you, Tia. I’m very happy," I say, knowing it’s the truth. Well, about being with Tommy and having his baby. I’m not at all happy to be meeting with this horrible woman.
Tia then leans towards Tommy, who also offers her a polite cheek kiss. "Thank you for seeing us, Tia."
"Of course. What is family for? Come, sit. I have some charcuterie for our talk," Tia gestures towards the table filled with snacks.
As we take our seats, I reach for the food, more to keep my hands busy than from any real hunger. But Tommy is right there to keep me from eating. "Erm, sorry Til, but the book says no deli meat." I'm slightly annoyed, popping some pepperoni into my mouth anyway. Tia's laughter breaks through. “Just as rebellious as ever. I like that. You’ll need it for raising a baby. But he is right my dear,” she says.
Grudgingly, I push the plate away, opting for a cracker instead, recognizing the need to show Tia I can comply when necessary.
The conversation turns to the matter at hand. “So, Matilda. We’re here about the surf shop?”
I nod. “But honestly, Tia, it’s a bit embarrassing,” I say, practically reading from a script.
Tia gives me a puzzled look, as if she's trying to decipher what I'm talking about. "Nothing to be embarrassed of. I'm assuming you need money?"
I nod, explaining our financial situation. "I can't give surf lessons anymore, and it wasn't great money to begin with. Tommy brings in some cash from tournaments, but those aren’t enough. Miranda's been a huge help by living with us in San Diego, covering more than her fair share of the rent. But eventually, we're aiming for a place of our own."
Tia then turns her attention to Tommy. “And you’re okay with all this?” she asks.
"I just want her to be happy. I don't need to dive into the details. If I could get a good job, I would. But first, I might need some training. If this is what we need to do, then yes, I’m okay with it," Tommy expresses, his sincerity clear. Our plan was to say as close to the truth as possible. Tommy does want to get a ‘real job’ as he calls it, to provide for our little family. I think it’s entirely unnecessary. As far as I’m concerned, he can keep doing his surf tournaments for as long as he wants and work the Surf Shack. We won’t be rich, but we won’t starve either.
Tia's scrutiny of Tommy intensifies, and I can't help but wonder what she's thinking. We'd rehearsed our story to make sure Tommy didn't come off as too easily swayed or, worse, as someone content with living off handouts. That wouldn't sit well with Tia.
Eventually, Tia's demeanor softens, and she asks, "We might have something more lucrative for you. Would you be interested in business classes?"
Tommy's response is immediate, his eagerness evident. "Absolutely. I think I could contribute more that way. I can't stand by and watch Tilly carry all the financial weight."
Tia's approval lights up her face. "This seems like an excellent solution. Matilda, you're stepping up in more ways than one with this unexpected pregnancy. You’re finally growing up.”
Despite the sting of her words, I'm heartened to hear such acknowledgment from my usually critical aunt. "Grayson will visit the shop, assess our financial situation, and identify opportunities for improvement. The plan is to gradually increase the surf lessons offered—a sudden spike might draw unwanted attention."
This is the part I’m most nervous about. Asking about the money. I can’t ignore it, any sane person would want to know how much they’ll earn. "And what kind of percentage will me and the other owner see?"
"You'll receive one million upfront and 4% thereafter. It's a bit lower than usual, but remember, this is an under-the-table arrangement. Grayson will brief you on the specifics. There are spending guidelines to adhere to, but it's been manageable for others," Tia explains.
Internally, I can't help but think of the dire consequences for those who might dissent—probably threatened or in rare cases, their bodies dumped in a swamp.
But I’m not prepared for Tia’s next words. “I’d also like to provide a gift for the two of you. Will you be getting married?” I shake my head, unsure of how to navigate this conversation. It’s something we’ve talked about a few times. I’m not ready. I don’t know why, what’s holding me back. I love him, he loves me, we’re having a baby, but marriage just seems so serious. So restricting. Sam and Greg are happy and deep down, I know I would be too. But it’s too much change to add in a marriage.
Tia’s displeasure is evident. “Really?”
Tommy jumps in, possibly to save us both from further scrutiny. “Erm, not yet, at least. Tilly is concerned about walking down the aisle given her current state.” His embarrassment shows as the tips of his ears redden. Lifting my hand, he kisses it gently. “Though nothing would make me happier. She looks beautiful.”
Tia lets out a sigh, showing a hint of humanity I didn’t expect from her. “Tio was a romantic,” she reminisces, referring to her late husband whose story remains largely a mystery to me. “No matter. I’ll send a gift to your current residence. But I consider this a fantastic plan. We need to move at least four million through the surf shop by the end of summer, so Grayson will get started immediately.”
With a scrape of her chair, Tia’s standing and I mirror her actions. She looks both smug and commanding, a reminder of the formidable figure she is. When she opens her arms for another hug, I step into her embrace, despite my reservations.
“I’ve always thought of you like a daughter. Your mother was too weak for the job. I’m sorry, but it's true.” Her words sting, even as she squeezes me tighter. “Do keep me updated on your baby. It’s been too long since our family has expanded.” As she releases me, a part of me craves the comfort of a hot shower, a place to wash away the grime that comes from touching someone I really hate.
Tommy takes my hand firmly, probably because he can tell I’m going to lose my cool soon. “Tell Keaton to come up when you’re gone,” Tia commands, dismissing us with a wave of her hand as if we're mere subjects in her court.
Before I can react with a scoff or an eye roll that the situation warrants, Tommy is already leading me towards the door, eager to escape the intensity of the penthouse and the scrutiny of my aunt.
Chapter thirty-eight
Tommy
Istep back to admire my handiwork, feeling quite pleased with myself. The candles I've just lit cast a warm glow over the table, making everything look inviting. It's been two days since our meeting with Tia, and Grayson has already visited the shop, delivering checks. The funds have been handed over to the DEA, marking a hopeful step forward in our complicated situation. Parting with the money was challenging, which was unexpected. But what I said to Tia wasn't exactly a lie. I want to provide for my kid and woman. Having a check for one million dollars in hand would certainly be one way.
