Page 90 of Bidding War

For all his tough-guy talk, Anderson can be a big baby when it comes to how he likes to spend his money. And I kinda love that about him. He puts out such an un-fuck-with-able air about himself that I love needling him about the little things. In fact, we’ve fallen into a bit of a rhythm in our days living together, and I love that, too.

Kitty takes a seat on one of the barstools at the island. “You know, his place has always needed a woman’s touch.”

“It’s a little sterile in here?—"

She lets out a huff, staring at the blank walls. “That is putting it nicely.” Then she turns to me. “But I am not here for that. I do not know how much you know of Anderson’s injury. Suffice to say, it was obtained in the line of duty while working for his father. I do not approve of these things.”

I blink at her for a breath. “Oh.”

“You were unaware?—"

“No, I mean, I didn’t know you didn’t approve. I know a little about his side work with Moss.”

Kitty nods. “Yes, well, I do not. I knew Elliot was going to put him under Mosses guidance, but I certainly did not know he would make him dive head-first into madness. Anderson has a great deal to learn about the business—this I understand. But Elliot was reckless in his assignments.” There is an edge to this woman’s voice about the topic, and it makes me like her a lot.

“Reckless is a polite way?—"

“He fucked up.”

I giggle at her swearing. It’s like hearing the Pope swear.

Her lips curl up at the sides a little. “Didn’t think I knew the word?”

I laugh. “No, I just never expected to hear it out of you.”

She shrugs and sighs, still smiling just a bit. “Yes, well, Elliot did. And now, my son must pay for it, which is not something I am overly fond of.”

The coffee is ready, so I pour our mugs and set out the cream and sugar. I was shocked to find it in Anderson’s place, considering how body-conscious he is. “What happens now?”

“I want it to stop. His side work, I mean. The way I see it, this goes one of three ways. One, he continues in his side work and ends up dead. Two, he stops his side work and ends up CEO. Or three, something catches up to him, and he ends up dead or imprisoned, either by a client he has dealt with or during an altercation with the law.” She glances up at me. “I am terrified that I have a one in three chance of outliving my son.”

I can see it in her eyes. There is no bullshit there. Motherly fear crinkles her eyes at the corners. This time, I’m the one who reaches out for hands. “We won’t let that happen, Kitty.”

“That’s right. We won’t. I need your help on this, June. I want him out. May I count on you?”

“When it comes to keeping Anderson alive, I would be insulted if you didn’t already count me in.”

She smiles, and we drink in silence for one brief, peaceful moment. “This isn’t going to be easy.”

“Few things worth doing are easy.”

“I knew I liked you.”

“Same here.”

47

ANDERSON

Idon’t know what time it is, but the sun is up. It wasn’t the last time I was awake. June lets me sleep when I can, swearing I can get back on a normal schedule when I’m better. I’m not sure if that’s the best idea, but I am too weak to argue.

Someone is humming in my bedroom. June is not a hummer.

My eyes flip open, and I have to squint because it’s so bright in here. “Mom?”

She scurries to my side from the window. “Anderson. How are you feeling?”

“I’d be better if the shade was drawn.”

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