Page 60 of Key Change

He didn’t want to examine those three months because he knew if he did, he wouldn’t be able to keep his head firmly buried in the sand.

Dahlia wrote something on a piece of paper and pushed it toward him. “In case you need to talk to someone.”

“I have a therapist.”

“Mmm, and how’s that going?”

He looked up. “I’ve never discussed what happened.”

“You should.”

He didn’t want to. He folded up the paper and slipped it into his shirt pocket, desperate to change the topic. “I think there may be others Hayden is also blackmailing. More of Bianca’s friends…”

“Are you friends with them?”

“Some of them. I feel as though I should reach out… ask if Hayden wanted them to be character references, too.”

“And if he is threatening them, give them my email. If I have more evidence, I’ll be able to make a much better case.”

Cillian nodded.

“And Bianca? Have you been able to contact her?”

“No. She’s still performing… Do you think Hayden told her he’d ruin her friends?”

“It’s possible, but without evidence, it’s hard to say. Why don’t you give me her email and I’ll reach out.”

“Okay. He’s going to lose his shit when I don’t lie.”

“Possibly. If he turns up at your place, call the cops. And stop pouring oil on the fire—stay away from the brother for a bit.”

Cillian gave her a weak smile. “I’ll try.”

She lifted both eyebrows and fixed him with a glare. “You’ll do better than try.”

“Fine. No physical contact.”

“Good. I’ll let you know when I have enough to take action. Go and sound out your friends. And send me those dates and texts.”

He exhaled. She wasn’t dropping him, and she would help him fix the mess he’d landed in. “Thank you.”

Dahlia grinned wickedly. “It’s what I’m here for.”

CHAPTER

THIRTY-ONE

“It’s done”was all the text message said. Anthony waited to see if Cillian was going to add more. When he didn’t, Anthony replied.

And? What did she say?

Do you have time for a quick call?

Anthony glanced around the shop. Apparently, sex shops were quiet in the middle of the afternoon. He’d been surprised to find one, expecting they’d all be online. He had considered shopping online, but he didn’t want his sister questioning the parcel.

Sure, and just so you know, I’m standing in front of a wall of butt plugs.

There was quite a range of sizes from too small to be useful through to what he could only call an ambitious goal.