Page 99 of Brutal Savage

Blowing out an exhale, I know I’m about to regret asking her. Yet she’s the one person I can go to for this.

“What are the best high-end clothing stores for women in Boston?”

We know many people in the fashion world, but I can’t keep track of what women wear these days.

She bursts out in a laugh. “Now, that is one question I never thought I’d ever hear from your mouth.”

“Just shut it and tell me, will you?”

“Why?” Her voice quirks. “Have a secret girlfriend you’re keeping from me?”

I groan in frustration. “No.”

“I figured.”

“I’ve got a wife.”

Silence. Complete and utter silence.

“Um, what? Are you pranking me? Because that’s a stupid joke.”

“Not a prank. Got married last night.”

She exhales a laugh. “I’m sorry. Back up a second. You married someone and I wasn’t invited? Does Dad know? And who the hell is she?”

I pinch the bridge of my nose. “He doesn’t know. Yet. But he will tonight. I messaged him earlier to come over for dinner. Planned on texting Eriu next. Your text probably got lost.”

“Ha-ha,” she scoffs. “So, who is this woman?”

“Brody’s teacher.”

“Shit… She married you? Willingly?”

“Mmm. Not exactly. I kinda broke in, kidnapped her, and forced her to marry me. I did get a priest, though.”

“Aww,” she gushes sarcastically. “You’re so romantic.”

“Shut up, Iz.”

“I’m surprised she hasn’t killed you yet. I would’ve by now.”

“She’s not you.”

“I can change that. Just give me five minutes with her.”

I can just see a grin on her face.

“She hates me, understandably, but we both needed this.”

“Are you sure about that? Seems like you’re the one who needed it and you’re just using her. Not cool, bro. Not cool.”

“Well, it’s done, so…” I let out a sigh, knowing she’s right about it all. I needed Elara more than she needed me. “I didn’t do it just for me. It was for Brody too. He likes her. She’s got him smiling, Iseult. Can you even imagine that? What if she’s the key to get him to talk?”

Her silence returns, yet only for a moment. “You can’t have a marriage like that and expect her to be happy.”

“I wanna try.”

“You’re so fucked. But I love you anyway.” She laughs. “As far as stores, tell me about her style first.”

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