Bennett scoffs.
“Can we get going so we can escort the ladies to the party?” I ask.
“I’ve been waiting on you! But now I’m feeling insecure about my clothes.”
“Most people don’t dress up. You’re fine.”
“I’m trying to be as unattractive as I can to your girlfriend’s little friend.”
“I don’t think that’s an issue, as the dislike appears mutual. What was that kerfuffle on the plane about, anyway?”
Bennett begins to pace because that’s what he does when he’s mad. Whatever those two fought about must have been big.
“She thinks Kemper is the superior serial killer. And I think he’s not even playing the same game as Bundy. What is Kemper known for? Banging his mom’s skull? Bundy escaped from prison.Twice. He also killed three people on the lam.”
I stare at him with my mouth gaped like an imbecile. Really? That’s what has his hackles up?
“Who the hell cares?” I say. “And who’s the superior killer between us?”
“Obviously me.”
I laugh. “And why’s that?”
“Because I change up my MO. I’m chaotic. I’m untraceable. You? Calculated. MO is well known. Have you seen your wiki page?”
“You do know anyone can put anything they want on Wikipedia, right? In fact, I’ve made my own personal contribution to your page. I added that you were a weapons-grade cockwomble just last week.”
“Mature.”
“Says the man arguing with a pretty lady over who’s a better serial killer instead of trying to wine and dine her. She’s not my cup of tea, but she’s very much yours.”
Bennett scoffs. “She looks like she’d be a great ex-girlfriend, I’ll give you that, but she’s insufferable. And she has a cat! You know how I feel about those fleabags. I’ve never met a nice one, and they stomp all over you with their gritty, shit-covered paws too. Useless creatures. Cat women are an insta-no for me.”
“Seems like Cat gave the insta-no this time.”
“She’d have fucked me, Ezra.”
“Sure looked like that on the plane.”
“Whatever. Your girlfriend doesn’t look like she wants anything to do with you either.”
I take steps toward the door before turning around.
“That’s not the same thing, and you know it. Ihaveto push her away.”
At least, I thought I did. Now I’m not so sure. If I can pull off the con of the century, I could at least keep fucking her for the duration of the retreat. If I decide I want more...
I step out of the villa. The sun has nearly set, casting a pink glow along the horizon. The gulls and pipers have retreated inland for the night, and only a few stragglers linger at the water’s edge. I start down the beach as thoughts of Kindra wind through my mind.
Bennett catches up with me as I approach her villa. I knock on the door, then adjust my sleeves as I wait for her to step into the glorious twilight.
When she opens the door, she’s wearing a long black dress that accentuates each dip and curve of her delicious figure. I want to get my hands on that extra bit of stomach and squeeze.
And I would, if she didn’t have a bit of a distaste for me at the moment.
Her dark eyes scan me up and down, and the corners of her lips twitch as she loses grip on her million-dollar smile.
“You look striking, pet,” I say, low enough that only her ears can hear. Cat slips out behind her, dressed casually like my brother. As much as he hates her, they sure are Tweedle-deepthroat and Tweedle-dumbass.