Page 36 of Ruthless Beast

Emily’s silence is painful. She’s staring at me as if she caught me whipping a puppy. I wish she would say something. Anything would be better than the death stare I’m getting from her.

“You? You’re his new client?”

“No. Actually, David started working for me—well, for our organization—years ago.”

“Organization? I don't understand... Oh, my goodness. You work for the mob. Don’t you?”

How does one answer a question like that? It’s a multifaceted issue fraught with pitfalls and hidden explosives. I swallow hard before I answer.

“Yes.”

Way to go, laying it out so succinctly for her there, genius.

“Wait a second. Did you kill my brother?”

“No! Of course not. I was very fond of David. He was a bright and loyal man. I would never hurt him.”

“Do you know who did?”

“No. I don’t. Not yet, anyway. But I’m working on finding out.”

Emily sinks into the mattress. With her shoulders drooping, she places her head in her hands.

“How is this possible?” she whispers.

“I’m sorry, Emily. I didn't want you to find out like this.”

“What’s that? Thatyouare the reason a good man died, or that you lied to me about who you are?”

“Both, I guess.”

“I don’t believe this. So, the whole time we were together at dinner and at the funeral, you were lying to me about who you are. How can you live with yourself? You’re a monster!”

Emily’s words hurt like a son of a bitch. This is not the direction in which I wanted this conversation to go. I was hoping she’d understand why I did what I did, but I can see that I was being naive. There’s a lot of hurt locked up inside this woman, and I’ve done nothing to ease her pain.

“I’m sorry, Emily. About everything.”

“What did David do for yourorganization?”

I take the obvious swipe on the chin like a man.

“He oversaw our finances. David was really very talented. I’m going to miss him very much.”

“I’m sure you’ll find another unsuspecting idiot to handle your dirty money.”

“I’m going to let that one go because I know you’re upset.”

“How gracious of you,” she snaps and gets up.

I watch as Emily paces the room. I know I have to give her some space, so I stay where I am.

“So, what’s the big plan, Lucas? Is that even your real name? Keep me locked up here until you sort out your shit?”

“Yes, Lucasismy name, and I want to keep you safe until I know for sure that you’re not in danger.”

“I have a life, Lucas. You can’t keep me locked up like some sort of prized possession. Besides, I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself.”

“Oh, really? I got to you without much effort. You have no idea how ruthless the enemy can be, Emily.”

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