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Chapter Eight
RAVEN
When I arrived for work, Vinn was nowhere to be seen, which was a relief, but I’ve had knots in my stomach all morning anticipating the mood he’ll be in when he eventually shows. So, I’m surprised when he breezes in with two coffees, placing one on my desk. “Good morning.”
“Morning,” I reply with a small smile. I don’t trust him when he’s like this. “Would you like to go through your diary now or when you’ve settled?”
“Now’s good,” he says, heading into his office.
I gather the diary and follow him. “Mr. Clay requested a meeting this afternoon.”
He grins. “About time. I honestly thought he’d be in touch much sooner. The severed fingers didn’t quite have the impact I was looking for.”
“After that, Sofia’s father would like to meet.”
Vinn stiffens. “Right.”
“Should I order lunch in?”
“No, I don’t think he’ll be staying long.” I want to ask if everything is okay, if Sofia has backed out of the wedding since she saw us together, but I refrain. It isn’t my business. “Have you made a start on the wedding list?” he asks.
I nod. “Yes. I’ve placed the order with the florist and paid the deposit on the cars. And I’ve sent Sofia’s measurements to the dressmaker for the adjustments. Her final fitting will be next week.”
He nods. “Thank you.” I gather the diary to my chest and head for the door. “Raven, I’m sorry about my recent behaviour. I have a lot going on. It’s coming up to the anniversary of my dad’s death and my head’s all over.”
“Sorry to hear that. I hope you’re okay.”
“You and Mac—” he begins.
“He’s just looking out for me, Vinn. And for once, I’m gonna let him, because I’m tired of being on my own.”
Sadness passes over his face. “I never meant to fall in love,” he mutters, and my heart stutters. “I’m sorry for hurting you.”
“Me too,” I whisper before rushing away. I head straight for the bathroom, needing to gather myself. When he acts all vulnerable like that, I just want to wrap him in my arms and never let him go.
When I get back to my desk, Mac and Chains are stepping out of the lift. Mac grins and holds out a brown paper bag. “Chains said it was your favourite.” I smile, taking it and peeking inside. It’s a love heart shortbread biscuit with jam in the centre. My absolute favourite.
“Thank you.”
“Is the big man available?” asks Chains.
I glance towards Vinn’s office, and he’s staring directly at me. “Yes, he seems to be.”
The men head in to Vinn, and Chains hands him a bag of cash from the debt collections. “Any problems?” asks Vinn.
“Nope. All good.”
“Mac, I’d just like to apologise for my behaviour yesterday. I was out of control, which is very unlike me. Congratulations to you and Raven. I wish you the very best. Have you booked for your tattoos yet?”
I pretend to be busy with my computer. “Not yet,” Mac replies.
“Will you cover up Ruby’s name or just add it?” My fingers freeze over the keys at Vinn’s question. I knew his mister nice act was too good to be true. “Are you allowed two ol’ ladies?”
“There are no strict rules,” mutters Mac.
“Does Ruby know about Raven yet?”
“Why the fuck are you bringing up Ruby?” snaps Mac. “How do you know about her?”
