Page 272 of The Trouble With Bad Boys

“Alright. It’s on its way now. I’ll talk to you again soon.”

“Goodbye,” I said as the line disconnected. I then stared down at my cell phone. “It can’t fucking be. There has to be a mistake.”

“A mistake? What is wrong? Who was that? What did they say?” Hawke asked in a barrage of questions. When I didn’t answer a single one, he stood up. “Easton!”

I looked up at the man I considered a friend, and not wanting to out Shelby especially before I could investigate her for myself, I had to think quickly. “That was my boss. He’s going to send some information to me on a particular suspect.”

“Who is she?”

“I don’t think it’s anyone you need to worry about. I’ll look into her, and if I detect a link between her and Syn, I’ll let you know. For now, I came to enjoy the night but I wanted to check in on you.”

“You also mentioned the drugs. What about them?”

“It looks like the mission I’m working on in California is connected to Denver which is good.”

“How so?” Hawke asked me.

“If it’s the same drug and possibly the same woman, I don’t have to split my time between two cases and can work on them both at the same time.”

“That sounds like a win/win. Do keep me informed of whatever you find out.”

“I will,” I assured him. “Will you do me a favor, though?”

“Anything. Just name it,” he told me.

“Are there any empty rooms tonight?”

“I think most are filled up, but let me check.” Hawke walked back to his desk and after scrolling down a list on his computer, he raised his head. “Room Three is open. You want me to put you down for it?”

“Yes,” I told him. “And will you have my standard list of items brought in?”

“Will do.”

“Thanks,” I told him before walking to the door.

“Easton,” Hawke called out to me.

“Yes,” I said without turning around.

“I appreciate everything you’ve done to help me with this matter. As you know, I haven’t always believed in your side of the law, but I’m glad to have put my trust in you. You’re a good agent, and someone I’m glad to call a friend.”

“I feel the same about you, Hawke. I’ll get to the bottom of everything and help weed the riff raff from inside and outside the club. Thanks for the room. I’ll put it to good use tonight.”

He chuckled. “I’m sure you will.”

I chuckled back, then exited his room. I immediately pulled up Shelby’s number and decided to call her versus texting her this time. The phone rang a few times, but she eventually answered.

“Easton. How are-”

“I need you now,” I told her. “I’ll be in Room 3. Be here within the next half hour.”

“I have com-”

“It’s important. I can’t go another night without seeing you... or touching you... or fucking you... Don’t stand me up or else I’ll come for you.” I then disconnected the call.

Fourteen

SHELBY

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