Bayou Judgment Read Online Free Page B

the one yelling this is my life and I’ll do whatever I want. CoCo loved her and was concerned for her. Felicia couldn’t blame her, really. For years, Felicia had been the stabilizing influence on the Trahan family, a job she’d never applied for but had just naturally stepped into after the death of her grandmother. Now, with her grandfather’s death and great uncle’s incarceration, everyone expected her to step up and handle things. Only one problem with the theory, she wanted to stand up for herself first.
    â€œIt’s what I have to do, CoCo.”
    â€œI understand, I really do, but maybe you should take a little time to consider your options. Maybe look into a different apartment complex, even. No one feels comfortable with you going back there since Jolie’s killer is still roaming the streets.”
    â€œDid Luc put you up to talking to me?”
    Guilt seeped into every inch of CoCo’s expression as she reddened. “He loves you.”
    â€œI know. But this is something I have to do.” She fisted her right hand over her cane. “I can’t give up the strides I’ve made in my independence. I won’t.”
    â€œI know, but we’re concerned about your safety. There is a killer out there.”
    Felicia gave a dry laugh. “Now you sound like Mother.” She shook her head. “Do you know she ranted for two whole hours about me not living alone? Like I’m twelve or something.” She paused, swallowing back the grief. “I’m just not ready to think about a roommate yet.”
    â€œShe’s just worried. We all are, Boo.”
    â€œNo need to worry about me more than anyone else. I’m not a cripple anymore, in case none of you have noticed.” As soon as the words were out of her mouth, Felicia could’ve bitten off her own tongue. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to sound so snappy. I’m just so tired of hearing the same old arguments. My mind’s made up—I’m staying on my own.”
    CoCo’s lips pressed into a tight line.
    She hadn’t meant to offend CoCo, had only wanted to make it clear she could make decisions for herself. She glanced at her friend again. CoCo’s knuckles were white as she gripped the steering wheel.
    Felicia’s jaw dropped.
    â€œCoCo LeBlanc, is that an engagement ring on your finger?”
    Jerking her left hand into her lap, CoCo nearly ditched the Jeep. She steadied the vehicle, a sheepish light glimmering in her eyes. “Uh…well…”
    â€œMy brother finally proposed again, yes?”
    This time, CoCo’s smile lit up the vehicle brighter than the February sun. “Yes. Three nights ago.”
    â€œThree nights! And when did you plan on telling me?”
    â€œWe wanted to tell you the next day, but that’s when…”
    The incident. Jolie’d been murdered.
    What a way to have an engagement overshadowed.
    Felicia swallowed against a dry mouth. “This is wonderful. About time. You’ll be my sister for real now. When’s the big date? I hope y’all aren’t planning a long engagement this time.”
    â€œWe were thinking of an April wedding.”
    â€œOh, that’ll be beautiful.” Tears of joy sprang to Felicia’s eyes. “I’m so happy for you. Took him long enough, yes?”
    CoCo giggled—she actually let out a little girl titter. “I’d like an outdoor wedding in my yard. The azaleas and oleanders will be in full bloom—the magnolias too.”
    â€œIt’ll be beautiful, I know it will.” Felicia fought not to think about the fact that her own wedding plans had been ripped apart before the bud had an opportunity to bloom.
    â€œI’d hoped you’d be one of my bridesmaids.” CoCo darted her gaze from the road to focus on Felicia’s face briefly.
    â€œOh, I’d be honored.” Felicia chewed the inside of her