Page 26 of Black Reign

Maybe the Mediterranean.

Maybe watching people I've known since we were arrogant boys become husbands and fiancés has done something to my judgment.

“There might be someone.”

Five men move at once.

Drew nearly drops his cigar.

Kane stops eating.

Jalen sits forward so fast his towel almost opens.

Vale actually sets down his Scotch.

Leo just smiles.

That is somehow worse.

Drew puts his hand over his heart.

“Say that again.”

“No.”

“You said there's a woman.”

“I said there might be someone.”

“That is a woman.”

Jalen says, “Could be a man.”

I look at him.

“Still not gay.”

“Just confirming.”

Vale gestures with his glass.

“Who?”

I take my time.

Mostly because I already regret speaking.

“Her name is Vesper.”

Drew exhales.

“Oh, that's hot.”

“Not her real name.”

“Still hot.”

Haverhill frowns.