Page 128 of Desperate Actions

Which is why I can’t shake the feeling that the whole damn job wasn’t about the files at all.

That it was about sending a message.

About provoking Angel’s wrath.

And if that was the goal, then these idiots just signed their own death warrants.

Because if there’s one universal truth about the Vipers, it’s that you don’t fuck with them.

Because if you do?

You get bit.

And no one survives a Viper’s bite.

My stomach growls, low and sharp, and I check my watch.

Almost five.

Fuck.

I missed lunch.

More than that, though—I miss her.

My Aella.

I grab my shit and head for the elevator, already reaching for my phone.

Me

You ready to go home, Pixie?

Her reply comes instantly.

Pixie

Yes, Sammy. I’m shutting down my desktop now.

I exhale, tension bleeding from my body. Just knowing she’s there, waiting for me, is enough to settle the restless beast in my chest.

Damn, I love this woman.

I fire off another text.

Me

Wait for me. I’m on my way.

I flick my gaze up just as Santos steps into my path, his usual blank expression in place.

I hadn’t expected him to be here. But I don’t show my surprise.

“What’s up?”

“Nothing, boss.” His answer is too quick. “Finished my rounds. Put Bodie in charge at the house. Figured I’d wait for you here.”

I narrow my eyes.

---