Page 61 of The Penalty

“Fucking his way through Dubai, Spain, and Greece from what he’s told me.”

“There won’t be an army of little Cades popping up in nine months, will there?” I joked, taking another bite of my burger.

“Hasn’t happened yet,” he answered, his tone dry. “He’s in Vegas now. He should arrive in New York in a couple days.”

I leaned back against the booth, considering my options. Well, there weren’t too many options. My birthdays were either spent with Killian and Max on the beach watching fireworks, or with Killian and Max at a restaurant.

I’d never actually taken up Noah and Tracey on their invitations. Spending some time up at Lake George could be fun.

Text him?!?!

“You and Noah exchanged numbers?” I couldn’t stop my disbelief from coloring the question.

“Yes.”

“Noah. The guy you spanked me over for sitting in his lap.”

His expression darkened. “Yes, and I’ll do it again if I ever see you in his, or anyone else’s lap.” He leaned forward. “Besides, from what I remember, you liked it so much I ended up finger fucking you against the kitchen counter.”

My body betrayed me like the weakling she is, and simmered with desire.

“Do you know what Bennet did the night of the ring ceremony?” What am I saying? I’d been wanting to bring this up, but now? Over burgers in a diner?

“Fuck,” I mumbled.

Xavier studied me for a beat before responding. “I do know. I also know you put him in his place again, which I enjoy very much.” A salacious grin curved his mouth. “I like how you handle him.”

“He was so puffed up when he lectured me on limits. It annoyed me that he just went and did his own thing without asking if I was okay with it. Or you.”

An uncomfortable thought filled my mind. Xavier’s already admitted that he wasn’t always alone at Bennet’s parties. I wondered if this was something he’s used to. And gets off on.

Both of us spoke at once.

“Do you like—”

“We should have this—”

Too many questions lingered on my tongue.

“How about we focus on one thing at a time,” Xavier suggested. “Your birthday. What would you like to do?”

This birthday is going to be a little tougher than the others. I’m turning thirty-six, which means it’s been twenty years since Charlotte was alive to celebrate a birthday with me. It also means the twentieth anniversary of her death will be here before I know it.

One thing at a time.

“Let’s go to Lake George,” I decided. “Besides, I’m still waiting on our weekend getaway. Your apology tour is seriously lacking.”

All I got in response was a smile. Another message lit up my phone.

Unknown: you must not have seen it yet

A couple hours later, I heard the distinct click-click-click of football cleats on concrete approaching behind me.

“Hey, Victoria. Hold up a minute.”

Dante Milano’s voice echoed in the tunnel. I turned to see him and Jax jogging over.

“Good practice?” I asked.

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