Page 9 of The Gentleness of Rage

“Slate may have a claim on Jones,” Drake announced.

James turned and looked at Slate, holding Jaelynn. “That would appear so. Slate?”

“Jaelynn, is there anyone we can call?” Slate murmured.

She shook her head and clung tighter to his tee as James approached.

“Jaelynn, is it? You understand Brice is a bad man?” James said gently.

Jaelynn nodded.

“And horrible men get punished?” James continued.

Jaelyn repeated her nod.

“Honey, we’re going to punish him,” James explained as he hitched his trousers a little and crouched down to eye level with Jaelynn.

Jaelynn looked between Brice and James. “He has people on the police force. Brice won’t be charged,” she whispered.

“Sweetheart, for what he tried to do to you, he won’t be arrested,” James spoke softly. “This is my card. If you ever need help, call. That’s my personal number, so please don’t give it to your friends. My wife wouldn’t approve of a multitude of young women calling me!”

Jaelynn managed a smile, which soon disappeared.

“Take them through the back entrance,” he said to Jaime and Adam.

“Our pleasure,” Jason replied and hauled Brice to his feet. There was a wet patch where Brice had pissed himself, and James looked at him in disgust.

“Can rape a woman but can’t face a man or your actions,” James exclaimed, shaking his head.

“Look, Washington, I have got money…” Brice began.

“That is something I don’t need. I’ve plenty of my own,” James replied and nodded for Jaime, Adam, and Jason to drag them out. He gazed around the room and offered a goodbye.

“See you for dinner Sunday,” Gunner called out.

Slate smiled slightly as James looked resigned but nodded before leaving.

“We gotta get you out of here,” Slate murmured to Jaelynn.

She nodded and shrugged free of his arms. Unsteadily, she began walking to the door, keeping her head down and avoiding eye contact.

“Drake…” Slate said.

“Take her to the hospital. They’ll need to run tests,” Drake replied. He ground his jaw, and Slate understood why.

Jaelynn passed through the door, and Slate paused. “I want Royce.”

“He’s yours,” Drake promised.

Slate headed out after Jaelynn; he assumed she went to collect her things. When she didn’t reappear a few minutes later, Slate went looking for her. Not finding her in the locker room, Slate walked into the main area. He frowned as he gazed around and saw no sign of Jaelynn.

“What’s wrong?” Drake asked, entering.

“Jaelynn’s gone.”

“What?”

“Jaelynn. I can’t find her,” Slate answered, confused.

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