While some of his message was clearly him trying to not hurt his ego further than he already had. So I was a bit peeved at that but aside from that, it was more or less the words I wanted to hear that day at the restaurant.
"So he still wants the last hurrah after all he has done to you." Dean had leaned over to look at the messages again and I saw the veins in his hands bulge from the anger he was holding in. "Easy tiger, while it is not the best goodbye message at least he is giving me one after all."
He scoffed pouting a bit but much like myself he knew that this was the best news we could get. If he took her away then I don't have to do much besides just act as I normally do for the next couple of days as the media storm that will follow will be immense.
Very few people knew I was allergic to caffeine and those who knew could put the dots together if more details about the case came out. So far the only thing known was that she spiked the drink with something so most people took it as a poison or drug. So by acting normal, there was a better chance no one would look in my direction.
"I know, I know. He is still a big loser nonetheless for copping out." He went over to my bed and sat down before falling back to rest. He turned to have his face smushed against the blankets.
I laughed and sat down with him rubbing his back. "Well I will take the olive branch since that saves me some time. I plan to respond something short and sweet. So I am thinking... 'Thank you. I will contact you if I find myself wanting to work with you. Take care.'."
I knew better than to bite the hand that was helping me. Even if I did not like the owner of the hand. And my father taught us to never burn bridges unless you feel confident it will not serve you. I could not say with confidence that having a bridge to Italy especially with the banking system was not favorable.
The scorned woman in me had to let the CEO boss take over and make a decision best for my future. I would not extend the offer now but keep that line open should I need it. That way I satisfy the two needs I was nurturing.
"It sounds good, though if it were me I would have sent him a photo of my flipping him off." I giggled at that mental image. "Oh my dearest tiger I am sure you would have. But as you said that would be your choice, this is more of my own."
He got up from the bed and sat at the couch when I heard some knocks. His instinct remains as sharp as ever. "Ladybug, you all done here?" Grandpa Beau had knocked before coming in as he heard no calls of protest. However in tow he also brought Papa Benito.
"Yes all done just about to knock out for the night." Dean stood up at the sight of my grandfather and gave him a firm handshake. "It is nice to see you again." However as he faced my other grandfather I could feel the ice in the room. Dean did not waver and stuck out his hand. Thankfully he wore a knit sweater which covered his tattoos. However despite that, I could see my Papa eyeing the piercings Dean had on his ears.
"Sorry to not formally introduce myself. My name is Dean Cortez and I am a close friend of your grandchild."
Papa Benito was someone who upheld the traditions our families set before him. So he did not want to fraternize with a Cortez if he could avoid it. So when he did not make any initial movement to meet Deans hand I got a bit upset.
Rationally I had no reason to be upset as this was something I expected but even the expected still stings. However he took me by surprise and shook Deans hand firmly as well. "I heard what you did, thank you."
The words were short and to the point but the fact that he acknowledged him was a huge step.
"Of course. I am happy to help. I will be heading out now, have a good night." He collected his belongings and waved me off from the door. "See you later for the exhibition."
As he walked away the two old folks made their way to me. "He didn't try anything funny did he?" Papa Benito asked with some worry on his face. "He has always been good to me so no he did not try anything funny. I know the whole family drama is very much alive and well but you should cut him some slack. He really helped us out big time."
If not for the amazing team at the hospital and him warning my dad, I doubt I would be here. "I know. Its hard for us old timers to separate the past from the future." He ruffled my hair while Grandpa Beau gave him a side eye.
I could tell what he was thinking but he would not say it out loud. He liked Dean who has been a great person for the family while my grandpa brought someone who caused more harm than good.
He was not one to shy away from sharing his thoughts but he knew better than to open that can of worms. That or he already had this conversation prior.
If I had to place bets, he probably gave him a good earful while I was at the hospital. And knowing my Papa Benito, he probably allowed it to happen as he felt he deserved that at minimum.
The two in laws got along but their distinct personalities made them a funny pair to watch interact. I liked to think of them as foxes and wolves. My mothers side being the wolves who are loyal and bold versus my dads side who are like old foxes. They are more crafty and sly.
new chapter! hope you enjoy!