Page 25 of Relinquish

“What?”

“You read the tabloids.”

“I don’t read the articles. I look at the covers when I’m standing in line at the store. What does that have to do with anything?”

“Nothing.” I shake my head. I’m learning all kinds of things about big macho men today.

“Isn’t he in love with Lacey?”

“Yes, he’s still in love with her. Although he denies it and thinks he hates her because she took his father’s money and left, but that’s not relevant. We’re not in love, and I’m not going to marry for less than that.”

Eddie crosses his right leg to rest his ankle on his left knee. “I don’t blame you for not wanting to marry someone you aren’t in love with.” He sighs and sinks into the cushions. “It couldn’t have been easy growing up in a house full of overprotective men, but if you come home now, I’m sure I can convince Dad to give you some space.”

Who is this person sitting on my sofa, and what did they do with my brother? While we weren’t particularly close while growing up, we also never fought–which was more likely due to the gap in our ages rather than a reflection of how wonderful of kids we were. Have I misjudged him, or is this an FBI interrogation ploy?

I press my lips together and tip out my chin. “What’s in it for you?”

“What do you mean?”

“What do you get if I go home?”

“Nothing.”

I shrug. “Fine. You win. I’ll go home.”

“Great.” He places both feet on the ground and leans forward.

“But I’m not staying.” Here’s to hoping Mr. Truman doesn’t get mad that I’m making plans to go home for the gala. It’ll be the perfect opportunity to investigate the burglary ring.

He falls back onto the sofa. “What do you mean?”

“I’ll go home for mom’s charity event, but I plan to stay here in Kansas City. I enjoy what I’m doing.”

His gaze sweeps over the living room. “You enjoy living like this? You weren’t raised in the projects. You didn’t go to college to work as a clerical. And you weren’t raised to make out with some man that looks like he grew up on the streets.”

Much better. Aliens haven’t taken over my brother’s body. I smile. With all the resources he has at his disposal, I’m still able to outsmart him. It hasn’t crossed his mind I’m doing anything but secretarial work.

My smile fades. Don’t break your arm, patting yourself on the back. He had no problem figuring out you were making out with Cade.

Not that it matters. It is not going to happen again. “Mind your own business, big brother. I plan on keeping my job. I enjoy working as an assistant, and while Cade might appear to be dangerous, he’s a respectable man. But don’t worry your pretty little head, we aren’t in a relationship and won’t be developing one.”

“Good.” He glares. “Don’t be screwing him either.” He stands up and wipes at the creases of his dark dress slacks. “Can I tell Dad you’re coming home?”

I join him, stand on my tiptoes, and kiss his cheek. “Sure. You can tell him to expect me there for the event. I wouldn’t miss it for anything.” A wave of pleasant feelings passes through my mind. A part of me appreciates he cares enough to travel halfway across the country to make sure I’m okay. The other part wishes he’d mind his own business. “I love you, and thank you for stopping by.”

“I love you, too. Be good.” He walks to the door and twists the knob. “Don’t forget to lock the door after I leave.”

“Hey, before you go. How well do you know Randall Maitland?”

He frowns as the cool afternoon breeze sweeps into the room. I shiver at the rapid temperature change. This latest cool front likely signals the end of the summer. “Why do you ask?”

I run my hand over my hair, re-tucking some strands that have decided to revolt from their confines. “Trenton said something about him dating Patricia Young. You remember her, don’t you? Her parents were killed earlier this year.”

“Yes. I remember her. She would be better off if she steered clear of him. I’ve heard he has a different woman on his arm every week. I can’t imagine he’s serious about her.” He shrugs. “He’s into investments, but I haven’t heard many specifics. I’ve been too busy to pay any attention to the society scene lately.” Eddie’s words confirm the FBI isn’t investigating him. If they were, he’d have warned me to stay away–another dead-end.

Chapter Fourteen

Cade

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