Page 177 of Hateful Games

An embarrassed blush covers her cheeks. “It’s called investigating.”

“So, we’re being delusional, are we?”

“Did you know Kian owns The Mirage?”

I lurch back in shock. “The elite gentlemen’s club?”

“Might not be for long. The women working there are disappearing.”

“You think Kian is behind it?”

“No evidence yet. Just rumors.” She shrugs, expression grim. “Heard he also has a silent partner. Maybe he’s behind it.”

“Nathan wouldn’t want you anywhere near it,” I finish for her, petting a puppy who starts to play with the elastic band around my wrist.

“If it’s not his brother’s story, it’ll be something else. I want to work in investigative journalism, Ro. Risk will be an occupational hazard. I cannot let it deter me from doing my job.”

“I understand. You’re meant for great things, Iris,” I tell her truthfully. “I would only suggest that you be careful and listen to your gut feelings. Don’t ever doubt them.”

“I will, Ro.” Smirking, she teases, “Besides, I know you’ll set the person who hurts me straight.”

I make a sign of a gun with two fingers and shoot at the sky. “You bet.”

My phone rings, interrupting us. I frown at the unknown number. “Hi, who’s this?”

“Your husband.”

Nova. My heart skips a beat at his deep, masculine voice.

“Your very pissed husband,” he growls.

I might have a clue about why he is upset. After the event of today’s morning, I was feeling a little—okay, a lot—petty. So, once I got home, I went straight for my iPad, made my account public, and posted a very embarrassing photo of Nova as a kid in his birthday suit.

It’s everywhere now. Trending, in fact.

“Why?” I feign ignorance. “Bad day at work?”

“Delete the damn picture.”

“You look cute, Nova.”

“I’m naked.”

“Hmm, really? I didn’t notice.”

“Rose.” His voice is a low growl, signaling he’s fighting for patience.

“Relax, I censored the naughty bits.”

“I’m turning your ass red when I get home,” he threatens. “And, Rose?”

I shiver. “Yes, Nova?”

“Save my number.”

“Block you? Will do right away, hubby.” I hang up and do just that.

When I look, Iris is staring at me like I’m a lost cause. Both our gazes flit to her phone when it starts to ring. I have a sneaking suspicion who it is.

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