Page 472 of Dark Love

“I want to do my own project.”

When have I ever complained about him using — “What kind of project?”

He’s lapping my office at a dizzy pace. “Don’t want to say. It’s private.”

“On my equipment, is it that private?”

“Yes.”

What could it possibly — “Are you in trouble?” It’s not a good time to fix whatever mess he’s gotten into today.

“No. No. It’s not about me.”

“Then why won’t you tell me?”

Shock blushes.

This is about a girl. “Do I know her?”

The blush gets more intense.

“Fine. But don’t do anything stupid.” That’s impossible when it comes to men and women. I’m the stupidest of all.

“She’ll never know—”

“Don’t tell me. I don’t want to know. Now get out of my office before you ask for something else and irritate me.”

Shock rushes out.

He’s an odd man.

Not wanting to deal with Max, I message Maddox Locke first.

Me: We need to talk.

Maddox: When?

Maddox, unlike other people, knows when to not ask irritating questions.

Me: As soon as possible.

Maddox: I’m in my office if you want to drop by.

Me: Be there in 15

There’s no point in putting off what needs to be done. I message Max.

Me: I need a meet.

Max: Is this one going to involve your fists?

Hopefully.

But unlikely. For an ask like this, Max is going to want details. I might as well give them a little info.

Me: This is serious.

Max: Enough for my dad to attend.

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