The Imperfection of Swans Read Online Free Page B

accept our terms.” Her typical composure was cracking. Renata’s hands trembled to the point that her fork tapped against the china. Releasing the fork, she folded her hands and placed them in her lap under the table. “Is that about right?”
    Noelle didn’t respond to the accusations and instead waded in deeper. “Well, I was thinking, you’d be in a position to press the point with the sellers. I know they are out of state. I’m sure you have some card to play.”
    Kevin gaped at her, uncertain whether he should be impressed with her bravery or horrified by her recklessness.
    Anthony slapped his hand on the table, once more causing everyone else to jump.
    “For Christ’s sake, Tony. Stop trying to give us heart attacks.” Renata glared daggers at her bother.
    He ignored her. “Count me in.”
    Renata practically hissed. “Don’t you think you might want to discuss this with your husband? I know it seems the hip thing to do is make decisions that alter the family without your spouse’s input, but I can attest that it’s not nearly as much fun as Noelle might make it seem.”
    “Rick will be fine. He loves Kevin nearly as much as I do!”
    This caused Renata to flinch. She glanced over at Kevin, then back to her brother. Then Noelle. “I’m not sure I see this as an act of love for our son. I know you think it is, but this is encouraging him to ruin his life. To throw away everything he’s worked for. All his successes would be for nothing.”
    Francesca spoke, this time all timidity replaced with soft compassion. “Renata.” She waited for her younger sister to turn to face her. When she did, Francesca’s smile wavered, and tears threatened at the corner of her eyes. “I seem to remember Dad directing a similar sentiment at you a few decades ago.”
    Renata blanched, her face going slack. Kevin knew she’d never recovered from the rift that had separated her from his grandfather. It was part of the reason she’d left the old neighborhood and had been willing to buy in a less savory location. “Sexual orientation is quite a different story than a career choice. One is who you are. The other is just that, a choice.”
    “True. But I think Dad would have preferred you to make a reckless career choice than to live your life as a lesbian.” Francesca wiped at her eyes with the corner of her napkin, then continued. “You were brave and daring, and you risked it all. And because of that, you’ve gotten the most beautiful life.” She gestured toward Noelle and Kevin. “And you helped pave the way for Anthony and myself.”
    Renata lifted her hands to smooth out her already perfect chestnut hair, then addressed Kevin. He was surprised to see slow trails of tears down her cheeks. “I know this has always been your dream, my love. But is this truly the path you want to take?”
    Kevin wiped at his own eyes with the back of his hand. “I know this is what I want, so much. I’m not sure if this is the right way, or if I should.”
    “I’ll take that as a yes.” She nodded, contemplating. “Are you afraid of it?”
    His voice broke, and tears fell. “Yeah. Terrified.”
    Renata studied him, her gaze unflinching and laser-like. Another nod, determined this time. “You should be. However, you won’t have to do it alone.”

 
     
    CASPER
     
    CASPER SHUDDERED as he closed the door and stepped out onto the sidewalk. Why the hell did he keep doing this? It was one thing to hook up with a stranger, a person who could be anybody. It was another to keep fooling around with someone who actually repulsed you.
    It wasn’t that the guy was unattractive. But he was just so…. Casper couldn’t put his finger on it. It was an elusive quality, or two. Whatever the mythical combination, it was the recipe for being a tool.
    But, really? Who was the bigger tool? Casper was willing to bet he was, as he kept coming over.
    In his defense, Casper listed the reasons in his mind, justifying the continued experience.