Page 8 of Jasha
“I wanted to cover what I expect from you, along with a few rules and consequences.”
“Yes, sir.” Jasha rolled his eyes.
“First, I expect you to be respectful, honest, and loyal to me. I have your back, and you’ll have mine. This means no shit talking about me to anyone. If you break any of my rules, there will be consequences.”
“What consequences? Murder my father?” Jasha glared at him as he asked.
Kaleb was taken aback by the unexpected angry words spilling from Jasha’s mouth.
“Absolutely not! The only way that will happen is if you run away from me.”
Jasha’s eyes sparkled with relief, and a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. “What consequences, then?”
“I’ll lock you in your room and you won’t be able to take part in anything.”
“Will you starve me too?”
“Your meals will be served in your room. Just don’t give me cause to lock you up.”
“Thanks for not starving me,” Jasha spoke in a mocking tone, dripping with sarcasm.
“Second, your location is confidential. No phone calls, no social media, no contact with anyone, and do not leave my home without my authorization.”
Jasha’s jaw clenched. “That’s ridiculous! Am I a prisoner? he spat.
“For now, you are. I’ll check your phone each night,” Kaleb countered calmly. “Third, and most importantly, trust me. I’m the only one who can keep you safe and your father alive.”
“When did it become unsafe for me?”
“I have enemies and now they’re your enemies.”
“Maybe I could go home, get a job, and set up a monthly payment?”
“No! That’s not an option. Do not call your father anymore. If you do, I’ll take your phone away.”
“You said I wasn’t being punished for my father’s mistakes, but not allowing me to talk to him is punishing me. I don’t suppose you see it that way.”
“I’m sorry it feels that way, but can’t contact him, period.”
“Because what you’re doing is illegal. Are you a loan shark for Russian immigrants in Brighton Beach?”
“My business is not your concern. If you need me to write the rules and expectations on paper, I can.”
“I won’t forget them. Is this meeting over?” Jasha’s entire face had turned bright red.
“Yes.”
Jasha popped out of his chair, quickly grabbed two more cookies, and fled the office.
Kaleb had to channel his anger into something positive. He called Adam to his office.
“Yes, sir,” Adam replied, standing straight with a smile.
“Do not drive Jasha anywhere unless I authorize it.”
“Yes, sir.”
“That’s all.”
