Page 154 of Golden Atonement

“Whatever,” I mumbled, heading for the back door. “Let’s get this shit show over with.”

I was just about to open the screen door when I heard Kansas say, “Fuck. If it’s not one thing, it’s another with my family. You know something, Maxim. I left New York City because I believed I couldn’t trust my dad or big brother. This just proves I was right about my dad. It was always something with him. Nothing was ever good enough. I got love for all of you, and I’m really fucking sorry my dick of a father hurt you, ma’am, but I’m drawing the line in the proverbial sand. This shit has nothing to do with the Diamondbacks. We’re out.”

Smart move.

However, seeing as Zeke remained seated, Kansas stopped and glared. “Let’s go, Shadow.”

“Can’t do that, Prez.”

“Why the hell not?”

“Because while I agree this isn’t a Diamondback matter, it affects my family.”

“Your family doesn’t have ties to the Golden Skulls anymore.”

“You sure about that?” Ghost said, standing in the doorway while he glared at Kansas.

“Holy fuck, man.” Viper smiled. “I hoped we’d get to see you before we left.”

Bayou slapped our brother on his leather cut and said, “Now that really fucking looks good on you.”

“If you fuckers are done gabbing,” I snarked and made my presence known. I didn’t have time for gossip. I wanted this shit cleared up fast. I needed to get home to my wife.

Everyone stiffened.

Maxim and Vladmir slowly stood. Shadow glanced over at Kansas, who cursed under his breath before walking back over to the table. Stepping to the side, Bayou, Viper, and Ghost all moved when I walked in, looking about the room.

“Reaper,” Maxim greeted, extending his hand.

Taking Maxim’s hand, my eyes landed on Shadow, and I smiled. “You look good, brother.”

“Feel better too.”

“Reaper,” Kansas acknowledged, and I growled.

“That fucking dick here?”

Kansas narrowed his eyes as a sly smile appeared on his face. “No. Dakota is abroad.”

“See that he stays there,” I snarked before grinning mischievously at Vladmir. “Hello, Dad.”

Vladmir growled, reaching inside his suit as two Russian men moved quickly to stop him.

Maxim groaned. “Maxwell, must you aggravate Vladmir every time you see him?”

“Yes.”

Maxim scoffed, taking his seat. “Vladmir, you have my sympathies. You may shoot him anytime you feel like it.”

Vladmir smiled happily.

Pulling a chair out from the table, I flipped it around and sat.

“Yo, dickhead,” I said, looking at Viper, who was standing behind the scared woman. “Call your fucking cousin. He’s worried.”

“Why? He need another snake in his room?” Viper chuckled.

I sneered. “I’m tired of hearing him bitch about you, like some whiney pussy bitch.” Turning to look at the woman, I asked, “So, is this the woman?”

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