Page 124 of Left in the Dark

No one says a word as I pause, gathering my thoughts.

“The evidence my mom has in that safe deposit box must be made public.” I meet Stryker’s gaze, knowing he’s excellent at hacking and finding information on the dark web. My gaze slides to Ryker, skilled at hacking, security, and programming. “Not only to expose my asshole father for the monster he is but also to bring awareness to domestic violence. For years, my mom has been a victim, suffering in silence.”

Zayne’s hand squeezes my thigh. “I fully support this. We can make that happen.”

“Thank you, love.” I place my hand on his. His brows furrow, and his eyes darken as he sees the trepidation on my face.

Zayne won’t like this next part.

I turn away from him, the words rushing out before I lose my nerve. “We have the trio. But there’s still one person missing. My father.”

Jaxson leans closer, studying me. “You want to go to the post office and the bank, luring him out, right?”

I nod as Zayne snarls,“No fucking way.”

“It’s the best way. As soon as I arrive in town, my father will be alerted. You know what a rumor mill it is.” I rub my hand over Zayne’s, feeling his veins beneath my palm. “All of you would protect me.” My gaze moves to Jaxson. “But you’re central to my plan.”

Curiosity is on his face, but then it changes to understanding. He locks eyes with Zayne, who immediately explodes.

“Absolutely not.” His fist slams against the table. “It’s too dangerous. I won’t put you at risk.”

I’m unbothered by his outburst, knowing Zayne would never hurt me.

“Baby, it’s the best way.” I turn, my hands cupping his face. “No one knows Jaxson. I’d make it seem like we’re dating…” I put my finger over his lips. “Hear me out, okay?”

When he nods, I unveil my plan. “Jaxson and I can go to the coffee shop first. Get the tongues waggling as we sit at the table and chat. We’ll make it look romantic, but you damn well know it isn’t.” My gaze bores into his, all my love for him shining in my eyes.

His muscles relax beneath me, and I know I’m making sense.

“Afterward, we go into the post office to check the PO Box. Then we head to the bank, where I’ll go to the safe deposit box.”

“And what happens next? Even your dickhead father isn’t dumb enough to show up with guns pointed at the two of you or to assault you in broad daylight.” The vein in Zayne’s temple throbs.

“Right. After that, Jaxson and I head to my cabin, where the gang will be waiting.”

“I don’t like it.” Zayne’s eyes move to the drawing, but the usual vehemence is gone from his voice.

“It’s brilliant.” Jaxson winks at me, then turns his attention to Ryker. “Can you and a team sneak into her old cabin at night before we do this and install our new system?”

Ryker turns his gaze to Stryker, who grins. “Even I haven’t been able to hack it. Also, I found out how Daniel got into her rental without us knowing. Richard had a hacker access our existing system.” He spins his laptop around, revealing a picture of a guy.

“I know him. That’s Brad Simpson. He’s worked in IT for my father’s campaign for years.”

“He’s dead now. Zayne’s bomb took him out.” Jaxson chuckles. “He was one of the unfortunate ones at the mayor’s Halloween party.”

Zayne smirks, and I can’t help the pride that rolls through my chest.

“Damn, babe, you’re unhinged as fuck when you’re on a vengeance gig. I like it.” I wink at Zayne, who growls, pulling me onto his lap.

His hand cups my face.“You really wanna do this?”

“It’s the best way to lure him out. If you blew up city hall and ruined his party, he’ll be madder than a nest of hornets. He won’t be thinking straight. He loses his temper when rattled.”

Zayne’s arms tighten around me. “I’ll make him regret ever putting his hands on you,” he whispers.

I nod, not doubting his words one bit.

A long sigh comes from Zayne’s lips. “As long as we can bring in the special team for this, I’m good.”

---