Page 86 of Rugger: The Huntress

“A gang initiation.”

He sucked the skin of his teeth before placing another piece of cake in his mouth.

“Is anyone still breathing?”

Cake could wait. It seemed as though we might have bigger issues on our hand than not choking from its thickness.

Sonnie looked at me under crinkled brows.

“Don’t insult me, Gazelle. My mother’s death came with a hefty price. It ended bloodlines, completely.”

“Good then.”

“I haven’t been able to look into my father’s eyes since. So, here I am, begging a woman I barely even know to put me out of my misery and keep me company until we both leave this earth.”

I coughed, unable to get the piece of cake down my throat. Sonnie’s question had taken me by surprise.

“I’m sorry. Come again?”

“You’re right. I said that all wrong. I said it as if you have a choice in the matter. My apologies.”

I didn’t respond immediately. I grabbed the glass of water and sucked it through the straw sticking out of the top. When I had my thoughts aligned, I cleared my throat.

“You cost me too much money. I don’t think I can agree to a partnership with you. You’re selfish.”

“With you,” he stated, “but never to you.”

“I couldn’t agree. Your actions say otherwise.”

“002839203729.”

“I don’t follow.”

“It’s an account. Your account.”

I wasted little time getting Royce on the phone. Groggily, she answered.

“Yes?”

“002839203729.”

I ended the call without an explanation. Even in her sleep, Royce was sharp. She’d remember every digit. If not, she’d return the call and request them again. But, I knew my sister as well as I did myself. She wouldn’t forget.

“You’ve hardly eaten your food. Would you like to bring it home with us?”

“With us?” I chuckled.

“If you thought you were going home to be alone tonight, then you’re sadly mistaken. You’re coming home with me.”

“If you’re not dying for the pussy, you’re going to pay for it at least.”

“I don’t mind which is wh–”

My blaring cell interrupted him mid-sentence. It was Royce returning my call.

“Yes?”

“Three quarters.”

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