Chapter 12

That night, Preston wouldn't stop drinking. Even after throwing up, he refused to put down his glass. Simone sat beside him, crying until her eyes were swollen and her voice hoarse. "Pres, please stop drinking," she pleaded. "If you keep this up, you'll end up in the hospital. Don't do this to yourself over a woman who doesn't know better and only wants money." Preston's fogged eyes momentarily sharpened at her words. Grabbing Simone by the collar, he slurred, "W-What do you mean, 'doesn't know better' and 'only wants money'? "She m-married Uncle Cedric just to spite me! I've known her for over ten years. How could I not see through her tricks? She just wants me to pacify her! I'll go find her right now and promise her I'll change. She'll come back if I do that!" With that, he shoved the bottle aside and staggered toward the door. Simone bit her lip. Reluctance shadowed her face, but she followed him anyway. … As soon as the taxi stopped in front of South Bay Villa, Preston g