Page 9 of Stone

He shook his head. He had a new job to focus on.

He had to stop thinking about his sexy, dark-haired sprite.

“Stone.” Killian stopped in front of his desk. The boss wore a crisp and likely tailored black suit. He handed out a mug of coffee. “My wife made this for you.”

“Lots of perks with this job.” Knox took the mug and sipped. It was black and strong.

Killian arched a brow. “Don’t get used to me bringing coffee. How’s the apartment?”

“It’s great. I need to buy some furniture.”

“Talk to Hex. I’m sure she can help.”

“What, because I’m a woman?” Hex appeared, her pink-tinged dark hair brushing her jaw line. She put her hands on her hips.

Killian shot her a cool look. “Because you know everything, and if you don’t, you’ll find it.”

Hex sniffed. “Decent comeback. Striker is the one to talk to about decorating your place, Knox. Hadley has good taste, and loves shopping.”

“True,” Killian agreed.

Nick appeared, his face looking serious. “I just got off the phone with Richards over at HT Industries.” The man glanced at Knox. “They’re one of our biggest clients. They just bought a new property in Greenwich Village and want an urgent security assessment.”

Killian nodded. “Take Knox. You can show him around.”

“Great.” Nick turned to Knox.

Knox drank some more coffee and stood. “Sounds good.”

“I’ll drive,” Nick said.

Together, they headed for the elevator and down to the parking garage. A second later, Nick stopped beside a sleek, silver Aston Martin DB11.

“Nice ride,” Knox said.

“Thanks. Killian helps us with investments. I’ve done pretty well.” He opened the door and slid in.

Knox sat in the passenger seat, putting the seat back as far as it would go to allow his legs to fit. “Figured you must’ve had a rich family.”

Nick started the engine and scoffed. “I have a rich stepdad. But it would be a cold day in hell before I take money from him.” Nick grinned. “Besides, my wife is loaded.”

“Lucky you.” Knox paused. “So, your sister, it’s her dad who’s the rich guy?”

“Yes. Thankfully, Nola didn’t inherit his asshole-ness. And she also has limited patience for him.” Nick glanced over. “I know you aren’t married, but is there a significant other?”

“No. Tried the marriage thing once. Once was enough.”

Nick grunted. “I never thought I’d get married. When you find the right one, though…” His smile widened. “It’s worth it. Hell, and now we have a baby on the way.” He drove up the ramp out of the parking garage, the powerful engine growling.

“Are you excited?”

“Sure. And terrified. My dad was an ex-con, so I haven’t exactly had good role models on the father front.”

“We aren’t our parents,” Knox said. “My dad was a mean son of a bitch. I’ve worked pretty hard to be nothing like him.”

Nick nodded. “Yeah. I’m going to do everything I can to be a good dad.” He turned out onto the street and picked up speed. “Lainie and Nola are buying up half the baby things in Manhattan. I think Nola’s feeling a little broody since Lainie got pregnant. She’s so excited about the baby.”

Knox fought the urge to shift in his seat. “She’s not married?”

---