Page 68 of Vicious Bargain

COLE

“Gabriel was right,” Hunter deadpans. “The Vultures can’t be trusted.”

“A few rotten apples don’t ruin the bushel.”

“Actually, in this case, they did.”

My head snaps up to meet his gaze. “What do you mean?”

“Chapman, Eckert, and Finley, Vultures we trusted, are confirmed dead. Martin and Brown are presumed to be.”

“That doesn’t mean—”

“Clint’s boy toy saw their executions.”

“How do we know we can even trust him?”

“Ashton doesn’t seem like the type that would rat out his teammates for kicks.”

“Jesus Christ.” I shove my fingers through my hair, angry at how blind I’ve been.

“Clint asked if we could take Ashton in once and for all.”

“Do you think this is a ploy to get his man in?”

Hunter shakes his head. “No, though I know Clint wants it desperately.”

“Tell me more about what’s going on.”

“There’s always been a hierarchy for the Vultures, but lately they’ve started taking rank more seriously. A few were growing anxious that they knew so little about the Keep. A rumor began circulating that when they were no longer needed, we’d dispose of them for knowing too much.”

“Jesus Christ, find out everything you can about what’s going on. We’ll reconvene a few weeks from now.”

“And Ashton?”

I drum my fingers on the table, annoyed at being pushed in any direction.

“Set him up in a safe house. One of the havens in the southeast. It’ll give me some time before having to make a decision.”

“That should sate Clint for the time being.”

“Do you think the Vultures are at fault for the slaughter that took place on Salem Street and at the club?” A coil of dread curls in my gut.

Hunter shakes his head back and forth. “Not a chance. They’re just as hard up for pussy as we are.”

“Speaking of which, I hear you, ah, found someone?”

His eyes drift off to the corner and a forlorn expression takes over his features. “I had, but she’s gone now.”

He doesn’t say if she’s dead, and I don’t want to ask as much.

“We have four women from the Reavers. I’m giving them a few weeks to get healthy before allowing anyone to pursue them. You’re welcome to take a few days off from the streets when they become available.”

“Thanks, but I don’t think that’s what I’m looking for at the moment.”

Surprised, I ask, “What are you looking for?”

“I need some time. Away from the Keep.”

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