Page 35 of Jael

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” Gregory smirked.

“You do like your secrets.”

“No secrets,” Gregory said. “Just talking business. Tearing down someone or something can be an art form, but you can use a cudgel when necessary. Am I right?”

“True,” Artus said. “But I do prefer a bit of flare. What are your thoughts, Danny?”

“I think it’s important to include wisdom in any action you take,” Danny said. “However, when you’re forced into action, that’s where real men stand out from the others. How you handle yourself under pressure. What the fallout is.”

“Well said.” Gregory slapped him on the back. “Danny has proven himself a real man on more than one occasion.”

“Is that so?” Artus said. “And what is it that brought you back into Gregory’s life all these years later?” The tilt of his head suggested he was suspicious.

“I’ve recently regained my freedom.”

“Danny just got out of prison,” Gregory said. “Could have gotten a reduced sentence if he snitched on me, and he didn’t.”

“Is that so?” Artus said.

“I pay my own time. I’m not going to give up a friend.”

“You will have found things have changed since you were last here.”

“I’m not disappointed, if that’s what you’re wondering. I respect Gregory and his choices, and I’ll do what I can to help him, no matter what side of the law that’s on.”

“But your experience falls within the—shall we say—shadier side of business.”

“Even as a young man he was gifted at his job,” Gregory said. “But I always know I can count on Danny no matter what needs doing. He is somewhat of a renaissance man.” Gregory’s head shifted to the side in a new thought. “Artus, I don’t suppose you have any work for him?”

Danny tried not to look too surprised or eager. This was an unexpected turn of events. If Gregory could get him a foot in the door with Artus, that would change everything.

“I might,” Artus said, scratching his chin. “I don’t normally bring in outsiders. You know how cautious I am, Gregory.”

“I do. It’s what’s kept you in the game so long.”

“And so successfully. But I am recently down a man, and you say you can vouch for him?” He lifted an eyebrow toward Gregory.

“Absolutely,” Gregory said. “Danny’s one of the best men I’ve ever known.”

“One of the best, huh?” Artus looked Danny up and down. “Well then, if you’re interested, Danny. I’ll keep you in mind and let you know if the right opportunity comes up.”

“I’d appreciate it,” Danny said. “Thanks. Whatever you need. You let me know.”

“But you need to understand that if you get caught, and I get a whiff of you turning against me, your life is over. And it won’t be a pleasant end.”

“I completely understand, and you’d be well within your rights.”

“Good.”

As they continued talking, Danny noticed Jael pouring herself a drink nearby. He removed himself from the conversation and turned to speak to her.

“I’m surprised you’re still here,” he said. “I expected you to bow out as soon as dinner was over.”

“It’s easier on everyone if I stay through drinks. And I have business to discuss with Christopher.”

“Just business?”

“You say that like you want it to be more.”

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