Page 106 of Luci’s Lullaby

“What does she want now?” I growl.

Aksel shakes his head. “No clue, man. She wanted an update, I told her you did the weekend shows. The next thing I know, we’re being called in.”

“I have a bad feeling, and I hate bad feelings.” Reese grinds her teeth.

I shove my hands in my pockets. “Let’s go see what She-Devil wants.”

“I promise you this, a few months and I’m out from under her. The minute you’re free, I want you.” Aksel stares at me, and I hold out my fist.

“I’m down.”

We hop a ride and go to the top floor. My stomach rolls when the doors open; she gives me the creeps. Which is why Reese is here instead of Walker. Aksel takes the lead and knocks on her door.

“Come in,” Sam calls from the other side. It’s a Sunday, again, and no one is here but us.

Aksel holds the door for Reese, and I follow with him close behind.

“Samantha Moxy.” She offers Reese her hand.

Reese takes it with a smile. “Reese Pennington.”

“Oh, yes. I had the pleasure of meeting your brother the last time.” Sam fires the first shot.

Reese doesn’t flinch. “My husband actually, and that’s why I’m here instead.” That’s my girl, return fire.

“I don’t blame you, I’d be protective too,” Sam snarls.

Reese is stone cold. “Make no mistake, it’s not for his safety.”

If Sam’s face could move, she would’ve really appreciated that. I award one point to The Pennington House.

“Alden Beck. I hear you brought the house down and not just for the little kissy face stunt either.” Sam leans in, kissing my cheek. Ewe, cooties.

“Hey, how can I help you today?”

“Oh, well, let’s jump right in.” She rounds her desk and takes her seat. “You’re going on the road next week. You’ll start in Dallas and work your way back.”

I raise my brows to keep my mouth from falling open. “Excuse me? I thought we agreed to take this slow? I have an infant at home.”

“We’ll hire sitters,” she sniggers. “do it now while she’s small and if you get custody, you’ll have time to be with her then.”

I sit forward and Reese sits up, taking the floor for me. “There is no contractual obligation for immediate touring.”

“As his manager, I decide his contractual obligations.” Sam narrows her eyes.

“It allows for extenuating circumstances, and I believe he more than fits the requirements,” Reese counters.

“He will be on tour within the week or he will be out, and I’ll make sure he’s tied up until the end of time.” She smiles sickly sweet.

Reese stands with me right behind her. “You may have him now, but you won’t have him for long.”

“Maybe so, but he’s mine until then.” Sam eases from her seat. “Aksel, please make his attorney a copy of the tour schedule; it’s in the computer.”

Aksel shakes his head. “Let me get that for you.”

“Please take her with you,” Sam directs.

I follow Reese to the door, but before I get out of it, Sam catches my hand.