Chapter 42

**Angela’s POV**

Brad surprised me. His manner was...different and I...no. I was interpreting him wrongly. But his words were akin to us being in an actual relationship. As if this would have no end. But I knew that wasn’t true. So then, he probably was this way with all his women.

My good mood dissipated in a heartbeat. Sex. That was all this was. No need to get my feeling mixed in there too.

Your feelings are already mixed in, can’t you see that you’re in lo—

“No.” I spoke forcefully and was thankful I was in my car or else I would’ve attracted attention by the force that was able to echo in the confinements of the car. Damn my conscious! My feelings are not mixed!

Well then keeping repeating, pretty soon you’ll believe it.

“Then that’s what I will do! Besides, I don’t need to believe it. It's. Not. True.” I growled at myself. Was I really taking to myself? This was ridiculous.

Maybe when I occupy myself with tonight’s party I will keep unwanted thoughts at bay.

*****

I kept turning my attention to Harvey but he was very interested in looking out the window.

“I was thinking that we should remodel your room. Maybe some new paint and other things to suit your taste. I called my interior decorator and made an appointment for Saturday. Would you like that?” I attempted a conversation.

All I received was a mumbled, “Sure.” Sighing I averted my gaze to the road ahead and continued to drive.

At home, Harvey hurried on to his room and I sighed. Feeling as if a weight was resting on my shoulders I walked to the kitchen. I really had no idea how to fix any of it.

“What’s wrong?” I looked up and saw Brad; I sighed happily and walked into his arms and buried my face into his chest. I needed to feel his heat, to be comforted.

He wrapped his arms around me securely. After I calmed I pulled away and created sufficient distance between us.

I was about to speak when the sound of someone clearing their throat echoed behind us I spun around and slightly blushed.

It was from Harvey. He was staring at us and I wondered if he saw our exchange.

“Can I talk to you guys?” he asked and I looked at Brad who, of course, appeared to be unaffected but I was not. My heart thundered, what could it possibly be?

“Sure,” Brad responded and walked to the table, he pulled out a chair for me and motioned for me to take it.

Since when did he show chivalry? I looked at him questioningly but he was not paying me much attention.

I took the seat and he sat beside me. He motioned for Harvey to take the one opposite us both and he did.

“So what do you have to say?” Brad questioned.

“I am sorry,” Harvey replied slowly, his eyes flashing to meet ours when he said it.

“Sorry?” I echoed. He didn’t have anything to be sorry for.

“Yes.” He confirmed. “I lashed out on both of you yesterday and I know you didn’t deserve that.”

“You don’t need to apologize.” Brad countered. “We understand.”

“I know you understand, but the apology is necessary. I have been behaving like an ungrateful brat. Angela has been my only friend, not to mention her supporting my mother’s treatment...”

“You pay for his mother’s treatment?” Brad turned his attention to me.

“It’s not a big deal,” I responded and I saw something in his eyes, surprise, wonder...pride?

“It is a big deal.” Harvey cut in. “You have done so much for me. I also came to know about your visit to Drake’s father yesterday.” He locked gazes with Brad and a moment of mutual understanding passed between them.

“The guy was a creep,” Brad responded and Harvey smirked.

“So for accusing you both of not caring, I am sorry.” He finished.

“You’re a kid. You were bound to accuse of that no matter what, it really normal.” Brad responded lightly, a smile creeping upon his features. Harvey smiled too and I was overjoyed. Maybe we had a chance of being an actual family.

“Can I ask you one more favor?” Harvey inquired. His stance growing nervous as he entwined his fingers and stared at them.

“Of course.” I encouraged.

“Can I—may I address you as my parents?” His words come out in a rush and my heart swelled.

“You’re actually going to call me dad? I thought you hated me?” Brad teased and Harvey rolled his eyes.

“Don’t destroy the little progress you’ve made,” Harvey interjected and I laughed.

I revoked my seat and stopped in front of him. “I would be thrilled to be given such a title by you.” I engaged him in an embrace.

“Thanks...mom.” He tested the word.