Page 48 of Three Little Words

Chapter Fifteen

Benny

Skin Buzz was a gorgeous shop.

It was colorful. Everything looked like it had come right out of the 50s or 60s, including the other artist in the shop with Bryn. The couches were mid-century, upholstered in bright blue vinyl. Pinup art hung in frames between flash sheets.

I knew which booth was Bryn’s immediately. I would have known her art anywhere.

I wished I’d come down here sooner.

I heard Bryn talking sharply to the other girl, but not what she said. As I approached, I smiled. I nodded to the other girl first, then looked to Bryn. “Hey.”

“Hey.”

“Nice shop.”

“Right? I think it’s a pretty good one.”

I laughed. “No, really. You’ve done a great job. It looks beautiful.”

She smiled. “You really think so?”

“Yeah. I think so.”

“Good. Well, what can I do for you? I’m assuming you’re not here for a tattoo.”

“I’m not.” I shook my head. “You got a sec? Can we chat?”

She looked to her coworker. “Marissa, can you hold the fort down for a minute? I need to talk to Benny.”

“Benny? Wait, Benny? Benny Briggs? From No Regrets?” Marissa’s smile was suddenly gone, expression serious.

“Yes, that Benny. It’s fine. Don’t worry.” Bryn waved her hand, dismissing whatever Marissa was nervous about. She looked back to me. “C’mon. My office.”

“Sure.”

I followed her to the back. Her office was clean, with real furniture and art on the walls.

She’d invested a lot into this place.

I wish I’d been there to see it happen.

“So. What’s going on?” she asked, closing the door behind us.

“It’s about Bryan.”

Her attitude changed immediately. This wasn’t the boss babe of Skin Buzz—this was a worried sister, a woman scared for her only remaining family.

She wouldn’t have to worry much longer.

“I, um. Called in a favor.”

“From who?” Bryn moved to sit down.

I settled in the chair across from her. “From Dak.”

“Dak?” Her back straightened. “Not Dak, the VP of the King’s Devils?”

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