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I tried to wipe away most of the makeup that, while waterproof, didn’t hold up to crying and fighting with a knife. Also, there was some blood on my face. The nurse took my dress and Will’s jacket, leaving me a set of mismatched scrubs to change into. They aren’t flattering, but better than being covered in Tanner’s blood.

When I walk back out into the room, my father stands to the side looking over my chart on the computer. I take in a breath, but with what I’ve been through, he isn’t as scary as he used to be to me.

He’d bleed too if I cut him.

“Father,” I acknowledge. Even though all the blood is gone, I can still feel it clinging to me. Will he notice the difference? Does he know what I did? The damage I wrought?

William Foster turns and looks me over. He has on slacks, a sweater, and fancy shiny shoes. The look is supposed to be casual but nothing about my father is casual. I will never be who he wants me to be, but neither will Luke. I straighten.

“You’re here because Luke asked you to help me?” It’s not really a question, but it comes out as one.

“Yes.” He cocks his head slightly to the side as he studies me.

I drag in a breath. This is my chance. I’m Luke Foster’s sister. His blood is my blood. It’s time I step into my birthright.

“Fine, but if you help me, it’s my debt to take. Not Luke’s.”

He smirks and closes the window on the computer. “And why would I want you? You were a mistake. Some woman I fucked didn’t take care of the little problem I left her with.”

I don’t wilt like I would have in the past. I may not be much, but he’s always been interested in me. He had my friend watch me, which means something.

“You’ve watched me my whole life. Besides, I’m your blood. Half of me is you.” I narrow my eyes. “I’m more like you than Luke is. I could have killed Tanner Lewis and happily eaten dinner next to his body.”

He folds his hands in front of him. “You lack skills and education.”

“So train me. Mold me into the child you wish you had.” I think of Luke calling me his sister. Of him holding me as I fell apart. He’s been with this man for eighteen years. Growing up outside of William Foster’s influence was a blessing, but I can take it now. It’s my turn.

He considers me. “You’ll need to improve your grades and live in my house.”

“I can do that. I expect you to pay for a good college.”

He tilts his head like he’s seeing something new in me. “Your mother has clearly done you a disservice. She’s such a flighty thing and you...” He looks me up and down. “You cowered and hid in my house.”

“I’m done with that. Don’t worry, I’m not doing this out of fear. There are things I need from you, and you’ll provide them.” I cross my arms over my chest, knowing I probably look like a petulant child, but this is important.

“What are your demands?” He’s still studying me for cracks. He won’t find any anymore. I don’t need his approval. I don’t need his love. Will’s love and Luke’s acceptance are all I need.

“I’ll do what you want, but Luke doesn’t move back in.” There’s no way he gets his claws back into Luke. Not because of me and what I’ve done.

William’s smile is cruel. “He’s better where he is. For now.”

What does that mean? But fuck, it gets Luke out of the house and means William can’t play us against each other. That’s one thing down.

“I’m dating Will Frank. He’s an expert on computers and can help me study and improve my grades.” This is the only thing he might not give me, but if he doesn’t, I’ll still keep Will and do what my father wants.

William considers me and then nods. “Fine. There aren’t a lot of suitable boys left in this town. In return, you’ll maintain your friendship with Harper and give me details on your brother.”

“Of course.” I’ll give him what won’t hurt my brother.

There’s a knock on the door.

“Come in.” I sit down on the chair and my father turns toward the door, but he’s off to the side, out of the line of sight.

The door opens and Harper’s mom comes through with a man behind her. “Hey, Penny?”

I smile and stand. “Yes.”

My father stiffens. Interesting. But they haven’t noticed him yet.