Page 14 of Kisses at the Crossroads

“I want to get her consent before setting her up as the headliner.”

Drake opens his mouth, but I cut him off with a look before he can say anything. He pulls his cellphone from his pocket, sets it on the desk, and calls the succubus.

After two rings, the performer answers. “Hey Drake, what’s up?”

“Kristy, I have a new investor with me. Pike. He’d like to ask you a few questions.”

“Shoot. I’m all ears,” Kristy answers.

“Good to hear,” I say. “How do you feel about being the headliner this week?”

Kristy sucks in a breath. “Really?” Her reaction has me grinning.

“Absolutely, darling. Would you be comfortable doing a lust experience for the audience?”

“Heck yes! I’ve been wanting to for a while, but Drake keeps shooting me down.”

“Is that right?” I cock a brow at Drake. He’s grinding his teeth and refusing to look at me.

“Yeah, I ask almost monthly. Figured I’ll wear him down, eventually. We need more people and I think I can be a better draw than a glow worm of a Fae.”

“I agree. Will you be ready tonight, or do you need time?”

“I’m always ready, Pike.”

“Perfect. I’ll get the word out and you do your thing tonight.”

Kristy squeals on the other end. “Thank you!”

Drake ends the call.

“That’s settled. We’ll see if Kristy has what it takes. If not, we’ll go back to Trick. But trust me, we need variety.”

Drake nods as he slides the phone back into his pocket. “How many businesses have you invested in before?”

“A few here and there. We always triple the profit at least.” Drake doesn’t need to know it’s all lies. My sole purpose is to get Trick and Ava out from under him, and what better way than to get him to trust me? “There’s one more thing. Since Trick isn’t performing this week. I want him.”

“What?!” Drake pushes to his feet.

“Three million dollars for twenty-four hours with the Fae. Noon to noon. Whatever I want.”

“Three million dollars?”

“You heard me. Trick might be better used as a plaything. I want to test him out.” Of course, it’s another lie. I just want to spend time with Trick. I have a theory on what will help sever the soul tether, but I need to talk to Poe first. The king will have a better idea.

“I don’t offer prostitution. Just lap dances and bottle service and?—”

“We might be investing in what Kristy can offer privately and the novelty of having a Fae sex worker. I’ll discuss with Kristy if I’m happy with Trick’s performance. Have him washed up and ready for me tomorrow. Noon.”

“Trick won’t like it. It’s the one promise I’ve kept all these years and intended to keep, but...”

“Three million dollars.”

Drake swallows and scratches his short beard. “Exactly.” He nods. “I’ll have him ready for you in the VIP suite. There’s a bed and other amenities.”

“Perfect. No perfume.”

“Got it.” Drake waves me off and I push to my feet. Frankie joins me.

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