Page 90 of Magnetic God

“Somewhat. On one hand, I know my husband is a good man. On the other, I know he’s been asked to do things for the Brotherhood. Whoever is killing members seems to know every sin committed, and that’s the part that worries me.” She looks over my shoulder, frowning. “Oh, god. They’re coming back.”

“Who?”

“Aimée Blanc and Vivian Zhang. Maybe we can dodge them before they reach us.”

She stands, which is a struggle, so I offer her my arm. She gives me a smile of thanks, but it’s too late. They reach us, smiling. At least, that’s what I think the looks on their faces are supposed to be. Honestly, it looks more like a grimace, but there’s also a lot of Botox involved, so I can’t be for sure.

“Running off, Isabetta? Headed to the buffet?” Aimée gestures to the table. “I assumed you had enough to eat just now, but I guess I was wrong.”

Vivian laughs behind her hand at her friend’s joke, even though it’s not funny. Not one bit.

Isa says, “Hannah, this is Aimée and Vivian, but I’m sure you gathered as much.”

Aimée looks me up and down like I’m the lowest form of garbage alive.

“So you’re the home wrecker who ruined poor Jacqueline’s life.”

I smile at her. “I’m sure I don’t know what you mean.”

“I wonder what people will think when they find out that you were supposed to be planning Jacqueline’s wedding and stole her man from right under her nose.”

Vivian adds, “It’s scandalous.”

“Did you not see the story on the news?” I smile. “Brooks and I have known each other for years. Much longer than Jacqueline knew Brooks. When fate put us in each other’s paths, we knew we couldn’t ignore the sign from the universe.”

Vivian is silent, but Aimée says, “And poor Jacqueline?”

“We all know Brooks didn’t love her. Not even close. He was only marrying her because he was ordered to.” I add, “I have faith that she’ll be just fine, even with all of her…financial issues.”

Aimée huffs. “He was ordered by his superior, and yet he still doesn’t follow commands. If I were in charge, I’d make sure he was taught a lesson.”

“Careful, Mrs. Blanc. Your husband is the Head of the Brotherhood. Not you.”

Aimée’s cheeks turn bright red. She turns to Vivian. “Let’s go. I certainly don’t want anyone to think that I condone this…relationship.”

The two leave, whispering to each other as they walk away.

Isa asks, “Are you okay? That was intense.”

I exhale. “I’m fine. I’ve dealt with brides who are worse than that.”

“Is it terrible that I’m glad you’re here?”

“Not at all. I’m glad I’m here, too.”

Isa says, “Oh! Greer just walked in. I know you’ll like her.”

She waves at the woman, and the woman waves back. The curvy bombshell heads our way, gaining looks from more than one person. Confidence rolls off her in waves, making her a force to be reckoned with.

“Traffic was terrible,” Greer says as she hugs Isa. She then rubs Isa’s belly. “And how’s my godchild?”

“He’s fine.”

Greer’s green eyes widen. “He?!” Her voice lowers to a whisper. “Does Alessandro know?”

Isa shakes her head, unable to keep the smile off her face.

“Oh, Isa! I’m so happy for you.”

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