Page 532 of Dark Love

I raise an eyebrow at Shock. “While I do that, I want you to check all the other DNA registries around the world.”

“On it.” Shock takes apart all the fun little gadgets he set up to ensure our privacy and hands back each of our phones before leaving.

“My idea makes the most sense,” Payne says as soon as the door shuts behind Shock.

“It’s certainly the safest play for Barb. But she isn’t the only person at risk. How many more people might die if we protect her and turn our heads on the problem?” And that’s the worry settling in my gut.

“We’ve already got more than we can handle.”

Payne is right. I know he’s right. “Can we just leave those people to die?”

“People die every day. It isn’t our responsibility to save them all.”

Can I ignore it? “We save Barb and pretend the rest don’t exist.”

“That doesn’t sound right.”

No, it doesn’t.

“And what about Imogene and Dahlia?”

Nothing can happen to Dahlia. Ever. “Let’s get more information first.” If it comes down to a choice between the world and Dahlia, she wins every time.

Me: We need to talk.

Max: Again. I’m starting to think we might be friends.

No chance of that ever happening.

Me: This is serious.

Max: You’re always serious.

Now I’m seriously thinking about breaking a few of his fingers.

Max: My house in an hour.

Me: It needs to be private.

Max: The park across the street from my house.

Does he not understand the meaning of private?

Me: Private

Max: My office?

We could do it here, but then I’d need to get Shock back to set up all his techy stuff.

Me: Private

Max: I’ll text you an address. Meet me there in an hour.

Is this where the Vincentis take care of problems? I guess I’m about to find out.

***

A warehouse in the middle of nowhere fits the bill for private. It’s also a solid place to take care of wetworks. You never have to worry about surprise guests in this area. Payne and I have our own warehouse, which is not too far from here.

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