Page 238 of Ruthless Court

Then his next message arrives.

Kane: But no pictures. No names. Nothing you don’t choose.

I read it twice.

Ryan never asked what I chose.

Most of Dad’s players didn’t either.

Kane argues with every boundary before respecting it, but he does respect it.

Eventually.

Me: Thank you.

Three dots.

Kane: Are you wearing the glasses today?

I glance at Noor.

“No.”

She laughs.

I answer him.

Me: I look completely different.

Kane: Why?

Me: Witness protection.

Kane: Send proof.

Me: Absolutely not.

Kane: Then I’ll find you.

My pulse jumps.

Noor sees it.

“You’re smiling.”

“I am not.”

“You are.”

I place the phone in my pocket and lift the old trade-route book.

“I found this for four dollars.”

“Excellent subject change.”

“I’m buying it.”

“You should.”