Page 96 of When Sinners Dare

“Okay,” I say. "Still in." He puts some more food in his mouth and keeps looking at me, as if I’m supposed to give him more than that. I don’t. He wanted an answer. He’s got it. Seems like he’s still expecting something, though, because he keeps staring and eating. “What?”

“You understand everything that’s involved? He did all the grunt work – got the girls, branded them, organised them with Knox.” Another piece of meat gets put in his mouth. “Dealt with whoever needed dealing with. No questions asked. I’m not making it easier for you, and Shaw’s going to need pushing.” Already done.

“Fine.”

“Fine?” He stands up fully, finishing his last bite of food.

And then just keeps on staring.

Impatience gets the better of me. “What, Abel?”

“Just trying to work out if I like you or not.”

“Well, like or not, I’m agreeing, so you better deal with whatever bullshit you’re contemplating, ‘cause I’m not down with crap that gets in the way of me and her. Don’t try it, or we’re gonna argue. And don’t underestimate the end of that argument, either. I won’t back down when it comes to her.”

He laughs, but does nod eventually, like whatever I just said was enough this time. “Alright, Kai. Put your dick away. Today’s a good day. As good as it can be, anyway.”

“All that arguing means it’s good?”

He snorts. “Call it healthy debate. Get used to it.”

“Right, well, before I put my dick away fully, I’m gonna need some favours.”

“Really.”

“Yeah. First off, an advance on whatever I’m being paid for this. One hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Cash. There’s one part of my life I want fixed up and finished. Secondly, a tattoo artist. Conjure up a good one from somewhere that can start immediately. If I’m in, I need everything that’s still outside dealt with. Thirdly, my parole officer needs redirecting somewhere that isn’t me. I’m sure you’ve got ways around that. And lastly, some time. A few days at least. A week would be better. After that, I’m all yours.”

He picks up a cloth and wipes his hands, slinging it towards the countertop. “Done. Where did my wife go?”

“Really?”

He shrugs his shoulders. “What did you expect? Like you said, you’re in now. I’m not quite the asshole Mariana makes me out to be.”

“What do you know about tattoo artists?”

“I don’t, but I know someone who does.”

“Right. And don’t hit Mariana again. Ever. You touch her, and we’ll be done, and she’ll be gone from here. You understand? If I think she needs some discipline, I’ll be handling it myself.”

That doesn’t get me any response other than him walking past me and squeezing my shoulder like he gives a damn. Until he begins turning out of the room. “I’ll call you next week, Kai. Enjoy your time. Maybe watch your back around her, though. She’s starting to shine. Also, don’t ever try telling me what to do again.”

~

“Why are we here?” she asks, stripping her helmet off. “I thought we were going away?”

“Just stay there. Give me five minutes.”

I walk away from her and into Viper’s.

Jules looks up, a smile beaming out at me. “Well, hi sexy,” she says.

“Stop it, Jules. Where’s Viper?”

“In your room. Being an asshole to the replacement.”

“Already?”

“Yeah. Started this morning.” Maybe he didn't need my help finding someone then. “Not sure he’ll last long.”

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