Page 42 of Matrix

I want to ask if that’s because he wants more than just sex from me, but I keep my mouth shut because I might not like his answer.

“The girls are eating breakfast, but you can talk with them afterward. Be gentle with them,” he says.

“I will. I’ve interviewed victims before.”

“You have?”

“Well, not directly, but I’ve watched other agents do it. That was part of my training.”

“I’m glad you’re with me. After what they’ve been through, talking to a woman will be a lot easier than speaking with a man. I won’t jump in unless you give me the signal.”

“Thank you.” His faith in me silences my fears about making a mistake. I don’t want to do anything to traumatize these girls further.

“You got this, babe.” He slaps my ass playfully as we leave the bedroom.

When we get to the kitchen, it’s packed with club members. Several guys are hanging out around the stove and sink, while others are seated at a long, wooden table. All three girls are sitting between two huge bikers. The kids look slightly nervous, but they’re eating, so that’s a good sign.

“Hello.” I smile at them.

“Hey,” one of the girls mumbles.

“My name’s Daisy. I was wondering if I could chat with you after breakfast.”

“Okay.”

“Great. What are we having?”

“I’ll fix you a plate,” Matrix says, leaving me with them as I take a seat opposite the girls.

“Can’t believe Matrix finally settled down.” Fender’s name is on his patch. That’s the only real introduction we get. I also saw him last night in the barn, but he didn’t say much.

“Yep.” Talking about my nonexistent relationship with him isn’t a good idea. The less we have to lie, the better.

“Here you go, babe.” Matrix slides a plate filled with waffles and scrambled eggs in front of me. His plate is twice as laden with food. He digs into it, making quick work of the meal.

After we’re done eating, I take the girls into the club’s library. Unlike the rest of the house, this room is opulent. Expensive, high-end wood covers every surface. A coffered ceiling is just one of the many details added to make the room magnificent. I want to read the titles of all the books lining the shelves, but that will have to wait.

The girls sit in various plush reading chairs, and I chose a blue velvet settee across from them. We’re alone with the door closed. Earlier, Matrix and I debated telling the girls I’m an FBI agent. Ultimately, we decided not to say anything yet. We don’t want to take any chances that they might tell someone in the club before we leave.

“Matrix and I are here to take you home. If you want to go back. I know you’ve been through a lot, but I can help girls like you.”

“I want to go home,” one girl sobs.

“Where do you live?”

“Billings.”

“Okay. We’re heading back to Montana today. We can take you home.” I look at the other girls. “Are either of you from Montana too?”

“I am,” the brown-haired girl says quietly.

“Do you want to go back?”

“No.”

“Can I ask you why not?”

“My stepfather …” Her face drops as her voice trails off. I don’t even have to ask her why she’s afraid of him. It’s all over her face.

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