Page 45 of Daddy Sees Snakes

"But why?" She sounds genuinely perplexed now.

I sigh, running a hand through my tousled hair. "Well... let's just say that Mysterious Ink isn't an option anymore."

I tell her about Lyon—an abbreviated version—how things were toxic, how I knew he’d forced me out of my job if I didn’t quit first.

"God, Iris. That's... that's just terrible," she stammers, clearly taken aback. "And you're okay with working at Satin Dreams?"

I let out a sharp laugh, the sound ricocheting off the walls. "Not particularly. But I need money and this job pays well. I can’t stay with you and your dad forever. I need my own place."

She's silent for a moment longer before she finally responds, "I guess... I guess if it's what you need to do then... then I'm here for you, Iris. Speaking of my father, how have things been since I left?"

My heart pounds in my chest. "It’s going okay. I avoid your dad at all costs. He’s too judgy, girl."

Allegra sighs. "I’m sorry. He’s stuck in his ways. Just work your ass off at Satin Dreams and he’ll be out of your hair in no time!'"

Relief washes over me at her words—her support is something I need right now.

"Thanks, Allegra." My voice is soft, a stark contrast to the cool demeanor I usually put on.

We chat for a little while longer before we say our goodbyes, her promising to come home soon for a long weekend before Christmas gets here.

After the call ends, I find myself staring at the ceiling, my mind in turmoil.

Everything is changing so fast, and God, it’s getting so complicated.

A harsh knock comes to the door and I jump up.

In walks Viper with an arched brow. "Shouldn’t you be at work?"

I scoot off his bed and walk toward him. "Going to get changed and head there now."

He clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth. "I’ll give you a ride. Hurry up and get changed, girl. I’ll be downstairs."

I do as Viper commands and go to my bedroom, change my clothes, and meet him downstairs in the foyer.

He looks oddly focused, like something’s aggravating him and he’s thinking too much.

I clear my throat. “Earth to Viper.” I wave a hand in front of his face as we head toward his car.

His eyes meet mine for a split second. "Some shit is going on, girl. Don’t pay too much attention to my stressed mood." He opens the passenger door for me and I slide in.

He goes around to the driver’s side and gets in, turning the car on as he continues, "While I have you, I’ll give you a rundownof what you’ll be doing. You’ll be managing Desire House and the girls in it."

I arch a brow. "Desire House?"

He nods as he pulls out of the driveway and heads down the street. "Yes. It’s where all of the women who work at Satin Dreams will be residing, especially the ones who offer additional services. I want things to be more discreet…especially with the crew I’m organizing."

"And my job is to what exactly?"

Viper laughs. "To keep them in line, girl. Come on, you know what you have to do. What’s gotten into you?"

I swallow hard. "Sorry. I just…I talked to Allegra earlier and I’m worried she’ll find out about our…situation. When and if she does, I want it to come from me."

"You don’t need to worry about any of that. Just focus on work for now, and being my good little slut."

The rest of the ride to Satin Dreams is silent as I think about everything Viper said.

He acts as if it’s so simple to not worry or overthink, but I’ll do my best.

---