Page 32 of Wrapped in Silver

I just linger there.

After a cold moment, I break the tension. “The fuck?”

His expression breaks into an annoyed frown. “I’m sorry about your father, Ms. Dall.”

“Then why the scowl? Spit it out, rookie.”

“Just didn’t expect to have to patrol an entitled brat for the next week, is all.”

My eyes widen. That’s right… now I remember where I’ve seen him before. He was that rookie, Eric’s friend, at the party. They met up right after I rejected Eric.

“What’s your name, officer?”

He sighs. “Going to report me to the lieutenant?”

I just linger there, waiting for the answer to my question. At least this prick isn’t scared of me because of my dad. It’s kind of… refreshing.

“Officer Rodney. Badge number 18823,” he says, and the regret starts to paint over his face.

So much for no fear.

“Sorry I wasn’t into your friend, Rodney. Tell him, no hard feelings.” I walk away.

I’m taking out my frustration on these cops. I should stop and direct it where it belongs – the Russians who took my dad, and the supposed rescuer who’s keeping me in the dark.

Snow scrunches under my boots as I round the corner. Once I’m halfway down the block, I make sure Rodney didn’t exit his car to tail me or something.

Nope. Just snow and slush as far as the eye can see on this block. I rush across the street and go to unlatch the gate of Silver’s odd mansion.

Krch. Krch.

I jangle the handle, but it’s locked.

Not sure why, but a river of fire activates in my core. Is he hiding my dad in plain fucking sight?Is he in there?

I walk casually away so not to raise suspicions from a neighbor looking from their window. A quick look over my shoulder shows the coast is still clear.

Maybe I can hop the gate.

It’s a little awkward since the bars are slippery and the top is curved, but I have the arm strength, I think.

Do it for Dad.

Think of him all tied up in Silver’s basement, not knowing when he’ll be released, if ever.

With gritted teeth, I grab the tip of the gate—making sure it’s not sharp—before pulling myself awkwardly over the seven-foot top. I’d be all bruised if not for the winter jacket.

Spoke too soon.

My leg justclangedinto one of the bars on the way up.

Shit,that stings.

And when I toss myself over, I realize what a psycho I’m being right now. What the hell is my plan? As if someone as careful as Silver would just leave my father to be found.

Still, I have to try.

I rush toward the front door and slam on it with anger. It’s not a good sign that my footprints are the only ones in a very light snowfall. He hasn’t been here… and no one’s coming to open up this door.

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