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“You never told me what you did with Dante and don’t try and tell me you didn’t confront him.”
Madisen had a teasing tone to her voice, but I knew better. She wasn’t just curious. She was still nervous and rightfully so.
I glanced at Max and the smug look on his face and grinned. “Let’s just say we’ve expanded the Powers Empire.”
“You mean the Powers–Briggs Empire,” Max corrected.
“So true,” I threw out.
“What are you talking about?” she pushed.
“I’m the new owner of a very fancy resort and casino in Las Vegas.”
“You didn’t!” Madisen gasped.
“I did.”
“How did that happen?” She shifted closer, narrowing her eyes as if she didn’t believe me.
“We purchased the property as well as two others out from under him.” My answer shocked both women. “The bank appreciated our business.”
Raleigh squeezed Max’s hand. “You are an evil man.”
“Don’t look at me. Blame Viper. It was his idea. I wanted to kill the man, but he said, why not just push him into bankruptcy?”
“Why will that keep him from coming after me?” Madisen asked, the concern in her voice another stab in my heart.
I brought her hand to my lips, rolling them across her knuckles. “I made it very clear that if he dared try and touch a hair on your head, I’d take the black and white evidence on Barrington’s murder I had to the FBI. He seemed very cooperative.”
“What black and white evidence?” After a few seconds, her eyes opened wide. “You were bluffing.”
“See? I told you I’m not a bad card player.” I laughed when Max grumbled under his breath. “We’re here.”
“And where is here?” Madisen’s rebellion kicked in once again. She leaned forward, staring out the window.
I watched a series of emotions change her facial expression. When she looked at me again, she had tears in her eyes. “What did you do?”
“Nothing.” The sign out front with her name gilded in gold as the artistry in residence had been lit, easily seen through the windows of the limo.
She punched her fist into my stomach then gasped as if hurting me. “I’m sorry.”
“No, you’re not.”
“You’re right. What is this? A gorgeous dress. A limo with champagne. What did you do? Artistry in residence? That’s not possible.”
“Anything is possible. You’ll need to get out and find out.” As soon as the driver pulled in front of the gallery, double parking for a few minutes, I hopped out, buttoning my jacket then moving to the other side and opening the door. I reached my hand inside, a feeling of excitement washing over me.
As she stepped out, photographers were immediately there to take her picture. Madisen smiled as if she was stepping out at the Oscars, a true bright light in a city full of them.
But hers would forever be the brightest in my mind.
I couldn’t be prouder at this moment. I led her to the sidewalk and she shook her head several times. “They’re my paintings. How?”
“They weren’t destroyed when your place was tossed. So, I have an old buddy who owns the gallery. When I sent him photographs of your art, he was thrilled to create an exhibit just for you.”
“I can’t believe you did this.”
“Shhh… Enjoy.”
