Page 72 of Cutter

Cutter, phone in hand, came back in, then glanced at them both. “What did I miss?”

“Not much,” she said. “I owed the captain an apology for the saloon. He’d ordered me not to go, and I did anyway, putting Yoanni and you at risk.”

“Don’t forget yourself,” Cutter grated. “But we’ve been through all that already.” He turned to James. “I have Blade on the line. You’ll need something to write on.”

“Got some here.” Emily jumped out of her seat to an end table. Opening the drawer, she pulled out a pen and notepad.

James took the phone from Cutter with the writing materials and left the room.

“What did Blade say?” she asked softly.

Cutter shoved his hands into his pockets. “Nails has put a second guy on to watch the clubhouse.”

“You’re kidding.”

He sat. “It’s to be expected. Darcy’s been gone since the party at the Dirt Road, and the last guy seen with her was Johnny G. By now, Nails has checked her home. So…where’s the common denominator here? It’s either me or the Spawn, ergo two guards at the clubhouse.”

“This is getting out of hand.”

“Not really, kitten. The guy is operating on suspicions. Our problem is maintaining secrecy and keeping him off balance until the night of the bust. If the operation is a success, we can return to our regular lives. That is…” He winked. “If that’s what you want.”

“Gosh, I hope so.” She was about to add more, but the captain’s return to the living room silenced her.

“Blade’s a good man.” Folding the scribbled note into his shirt pocket, James spoke directly to Cutter. “Your president and I need to work something out for your MC’s future. Blade tells me he wants to eliminate the Devils’ Spawn one percenter designation and return to the AMA’s fold. I can help him with that. I know a few people. I have what I need to make the necessary calls and bring the FBI into the Darcy situation.” He patted the shirt pocket, holding the note.

“It was a pleasure, Cutter. Honestly, you surprised me. I had my doubts you’d come through for us. But you did more than that and showed this old dog some new tricks. We can all thank you. Let’s hope this bust is a success.” James shook hishand and turned to Emily. “Detective, I want to see you at eight o’clock sharp. There’s much to plan. While I go walk around the warehouse to get a feel for the location, I need you on the phone with the DEA. No one knows the particulars of this case better than you.”

“You mean, on my phone and out in the parking lot. Right, Captain?” Chuckling, she opened the door for him.

“Hmmm.” He frowned. “Sass doesn’t suit you, Detective. I’m off.” He tapped his forehead and walked out.

As James Weaver reached the midpoint in the stairs, Cutter called out, “Excuse me, James.”

He turned. “Yes?”

“This may sound paranoid, but will you humor me and watch for anyone following you?”

James frowned. “That’s not paranoid at all, Cutter. Thanks for the reminder.” He reached the ground floor and disappeared into the night.

As Emily closed the door, Cutter held her shoulders. “I’m glad we had this weekend to ourselves.”

“Me too.”

His gaze bore into her. A strange quiver, a sensation similar to fear, coursed through her. “The next couple of days are going to be hectic, kitten.” The warning reminder put her on edge. “We won’t have much time together. I want you to keep what we talked about in mind.”

She knew. She absolutely remembered his opinion and strict prohibition.

“Sure, Daddy.”

“Keep trying, but it won’t work. I know your stubborn streak, kitten. You’ll stay away from trouble and keep me informed at all times, right?”

Stay soft. Agree. Pacify him.

“Uh-huh.”

“Good.” He put an arm around her shoulders. “Let’s go watch some cartoons and relax. Why do you say?”

“Love it, Daddy.”

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