Page 14 of Bulletproof Love

I bend to put Havoc on the floor while Blake lets out a sound that’s a mix between a gasp and a squeal. “I’ll go get him.”

The room is graveyard quiet as we crowd around one of Leon’s monitors. If I’m this anxious, I can’t even imagine how they must be feeling. “Does the name Fairfax ring a bell?” Damon asks Blake.

She shakes her head. “Not at all. But Brennan was involved in a lot of charities the past few years. He went to events all the time.”

Damon pulls her against his chest, and I notice the moisture gleaming in her eyes. “It’s okay, Angel.”

“Let’s open it,” Jasper says. “What’s the worst that could happen?”

Leon and I exchange similar looks, dread mixed with anticipation, and I nod. “He’s right.”

“Alright, let’s see what Fairfax has to say.” Leon rubs his hands together before clicking the email open.

From: [email protected]

Subject: Annual New Year’s Eve Masquerade - The Fairfax Estate

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Brennan Whitaker,

Harrison and Evelyn Fairfax request the pleasure of your company at their Annual New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball.

Join us as we welcome the new year in elegance at our upstate home, Fairfax Manor. As always, this exclusive gathering brings together New York’s most distinguished leaders in business, politics, and philanthropy.

Details are as follows:

Date: December 31st, 2024

Time: 8:00 PM until after midnight

Venue: Fairfax Manor

44 Riveridge Road

Bedford, New York

Attire: Black tie

Masks required for the midnight unveiling ceremony

This year’s charitable focus supports youth education initiatives across the state. Your generous contributions have made significant impacts in previous years.

RSVP required. This invitation is non-transferable.

Security protocols will be strictly enforced.

Regards,

Office of State Senator Harrison Fairfax

Chairman of the Finance Committee

I read over the email two more times before pacing the length of the room. This has to be significant. As soon as I open my mouth to speak, the room explodes with questions.

“Finance committee?” Leon asks, bewildered.

“What the fuck is an unveiling ceremony?” Jasper adds at the same time.

Blake takes a few steps toward Leon’s bed and sits. “This is something he must have attended before. We have to go.”

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