Page 51 of Ruthless Beast

“What will we be doing in Paris?” Emily asks me after a few moments of silence. “Or is that on a need-to-know basis?”

“I’d prefer it if you didn't ask.”

“Illegal, then?”

“Emily, I’m sorry, but I can’t discuss my business with you. It’s better for you that I don’t.”

“How did you get into this…profession, anyway? I can’t imagine any kid dreaming of one day becoming a gangster.”

“Do you always ask the tough questions?”

“It’s a quirk. Are you avoiding?”

“No. It’s not a simple answer.”

“I didn’t expect it to be. We have time.”

“How about we get to know each other a little better before you roast me over open flames? Okay?”

“Fine.”

“I’m taking you to a boutique a friend of mine owns. She’ll take good care of you. The store is filled with couture. I’m sure you’ll find what you need for the trip.”

“Couture, hey?”

“What? You think gangsters don’t know about fashion?”

Emily chuckles.

“Is this friend of yours an old girlfriend?”

“Jealous?”

“Don’t be ridiculous. I’m just curious.”

“No. She and I grew up in the same neighborhood. Sandy is like a sister to me.”

I can tell from her expression that the gears in Emily’s head are turning at warp speed.

“I know what you’re thinking,” I smile.

“Oh?”

“Yup. Sandy won’t give away any of my secrets, if that’s what you were hoping.”

“You overestimate my interest in you, Lucas.”

“Just saying.”

“Noted.”

My driver pulls the car into an underground parking area. My bodyguards get out first to scope out the lay of the land while Emily and I wait inside the vehicle.

“It can’t be easy,” she says.

“What’s that?”

“Living like this. Not knowing from one moment to the next if you’re going to catch a bullet. Is it worth it?”

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