Page 12 of Flame
Probably hell.
“Please do this for me,” Jason says, touching my shoulder. “I really need to get to the airport, and we need you to be safe—just until we have a better handle on Dad’s intentions.”
I suck in a long, deep breath. “Okay. I guess. I …Jason…”
He gives me a quick hug, shakes Foxx’s hand, and then bolts for the door.
I steady my breath and try to gather my wits.
The community center is empty, save for a few people picking up trash and sweeping the floor. I look around the building, letting the events of the past few minutes soak in. When I finally find the strength to look up at my new roommate, he’s standing behind me with a twinkle in his eye.
“What?” I ask, deadpan.
“Looks like you’re my official business now.”
With that, he turns for the exit.
Great. Just great.
CHAPTER3
Bianca
The streets of Kismet Beach are adorable. Sidewalks are dusted with white sand. Buildings are painted the prettiest pastels, and windsocks dangle from many of the porches that face the main drag through town. It’s all a compliment to the main attraction—the Atlantic Ocean just a street away.
I rest the side of my head against the window as Foxx pulls the truck to a stop. A woman and small child pass in front of us, waving from the walkway. Foxx raises his fingers off the steering wheel in the most basic form of a wave possible. Once they’re safely on the other side of the street, the truck roars to life once again.
It’s been ten minutes since I followed him out of the community center. He’s not said a single word. I haven’t said anything either—mostly out of defiance.
My phone buzzes in my lap, breaking the silence in the cab.
I look at the screen to find our family group chat alive and well.
Jason: Leaving the airport shortly.
Renn: Be safe.
Gannon: Security has been increased at all Brewer properties.
Ripley: I’m with Mom. Walking into meetings with attorneys.
Tate: Where’s Bianca?
Jason: Florida.
Tate:
Jason: She’s staying with Foxx.
Tate: Bet she hates that.
I fight a grin and tap out my reply.
Me: I’m on this thread, you know.
Gannon: We’ll keep in contact. If I need anything here, I’ll call, Bianca.
Tate: Have fun, you little rascal.
