Page 83 of Stabby Little

There's no way back in once you're out.

Michael's sitting at his desk when Cadbury brings me into his office.

He stares at his computer and sips scotch. Dark bags sit under his eyes as an expression of unconscious rage drifts across his features. He bites his pursed lips back into a growl and ticks his eyes up when he sees me.

"Shut the door." Michael issues Cadbury a fierce glare. "Leave us alone."

"Yes, sir."

After Cadbury leaves, Michael turns to me.

"How did you enjoy the wedding?" Michael helps himself to another glass of scotch.

"It was fine. The ceremony was incredible and the food was zesty. I haven't had chicken Alfredo that delicious in a very long time."

"We expected a big crowd. Zaire requested an extra-large batch. I take it the cannoli was also to your liking."

"The cannoli put the Alfredo to shame. I felt like I was at the finest restaurant in Sicily."

"Good. That's the correct answer. You're getting better at this."

"I don't know what you mean."

"Bullshitting." Michael spits the words out. "Your bullshit answers are better than before. Two weeks ago, you would've questioned me. Now you sound more like Jagger."

"I tell the truth. The food was sublime."

Michael crosses his fingers together. "Tell me about Khalid."

"I caught him stealing jewelry from Anton's dresser. He was shoving a diamond necklace in his pocket when I entered the room."

"How much did he take?"

"He said the jewelry was worth three million dollars but I could have a cut if I didn't tell you. That's why I locked him in the room and informed Anton."

Michael sips his drink. "Were you surprised to see Khalid?" His lips curl into a snarl. "He's supposed to be dead."

"I was caught off-guard at first. But I understand he does important work for you. You couldn't tell me he was still alive because he's likely working undercover."

"What did you discuss in Anton's bedroom?"

"The jewelry. I asked him why he was stealing from his bosses. He lied and said Anton told him to take it."

"Every inch of Anton's house have microphones. Don't fuck with me."

"I'm not fucking with you."

"What else did you discuss?"

"That's it. I questioned him about the jewelry. When he didn't provide me with a satisfactory answer, I reported him."

"You're a tattletale."

"That wasn't my intention."

"You interrupted Tiffy's after-ceremony to tattle on my best hitman. You know what Anton did to him?"

"No."

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