Page 28 of Steel Trap
“Our relationship has to remain secret. Ihave the backing of a lot of powerful people for this endeavor. People like me who want some of the scum on this earth eradicated effectively. I have the finances to support it. But my, and their involvement, must never become public.”
Orlando and Shelton arrived with trays of coffee and plates of cookies, which they distributed.
“If you agree, this place will be signed over to you in perpetuity.You’ll each be paid a salary along with the usual bonuses when jobs are complete. Any health issues will be covered.”
“By health issues you mean bullet holes, knife wounds…that kind of thing?” Rogue said.
“Precisely. I’m not going to hide that this will continue to be dangerous work and I quite understand if any of you choose to leave. You’ll be given a year’s money to tide you over.” The senatortook a bite of cookie. “These are great—you must let me have the recipe for my housekeeper.”
“There’s no Mrs. Renton?” Orlando asked.
“I’m afraid Montgomery’s mother passed some time ago. I’ve not been the best father, but I’ve done my best to keep him safe.”
“You did fine, Dad.” Smith sounded on the verge of tears.
“And now I’m afraid I must go. Business beckons and I have to travel to Washingtontonight. You will continue to communicate with me through Montgomery and for those of you who decide your future lies elsewhere, I wish you the best of luck.”
Hatchet and Smith escorted the senator to the door. Hatchet shook his hand while Smith gave his father a hug.
There was a brief silence while The Wyverns exchanged glances.
“Well, fuck me sideways,” Teddy exclaimed, breaking the quiet.“Didn’t see that coming.”
Rogue gave Shelton and Orlando a quick summary of what they’d missed.
“I want to stay here!” Orlando said. “But can we build a pool? I’d really like a pool.”
“We’re in.” Bull and Artie said in unison. “Where the fuck else could we go where we get paid for blowing stuff up?” Bull added. They high-fived each other. Bull gave Artie’s thigh a squeeze and got a soppy smilein return.
“This is my family,” Crow said. “If Shelton’s up for it, I’m in, too.” Shelton jumped on his lap and gave him a hug.
Rogue gave a pained sigh. “I can’t believe I’ve been complaining about this fucking gig for years and now we have choices, I don’t think I want to go. On our own terms, we could really do some good.”
“And I ain’t got anywhere I’d rather be,” Teddy said. “I live tocause Adrian as much grief as possible and his cells are comfier than most.”
“What about you, Hatch?” Rogue asked. “You in?”
Hatchet pulled Smith closer. “Why the fuck not? Mayhem’s my middle name. We work, so why end it?”
“Looks like you have your answer then, Smith,” Rogue said. “I suppose we’ll have to call you something different now, though?”
“I’m kinda used to it,” Smith said. “You can’tuse my real name so Smith will do.”
“Well, Montgomery Smith, it seems like The Wyverns live to fight another day.” Hatchet ran a hand down his thigh. “We should go celebrate.”
Smith’s answering squeak was enough confirmation for Hatchet. He hoisted Smith over his shoulder then limped toward the bedroom wing, the catcalls of his friends ringing in his ears.
