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The finality in Saint’s words hangs like a shroud over the room, and I can’t shake the feeling he’s making a mistake.
“Won’t people get suspicious if you don’t allow his own wife to pay her respects? You said Ian and Eric were the ones who set everything up, right?”
“Yeah.”
“Then there’s no threat if it was them.”
The room falls into a tense quiet, Saint’s gaze unwavering.
“And you’ll be okay with that? Being in a room full of mafia after what happened the last time? With Ian?”
“No, I meant with just us. You can tell people that the funeral is private. A small gathering with family only. And, instead of people sending flowers and wreaths, we could ask them to donate to the homeless shelter. That way, it still looks sincere to anyone watching, and we get to help out a good cause simultaneously.”
His smile is broad, and his eyes gleam with pride.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” I chuckle.
“I’m just internally kicking the shit outta myself.”
I laugh a little louder. “Why?”
A quiet symphony of birds outside my window accompanies Saint’s words. “For not telling you sooner how I felt about you.”
My heart swells at the promise in Saint’s eyes. The promise of a new beginning.
Chapter Forty
TheChiefofPolicedelivered the news about my father’s death several hours ago. Luckily, the guards stuck to their story as the chief informed me that they are still investigating but so far have no suspects.From what they could tell, a fight broke out, which they believe was when my father was attacked. As soon as they have any updates, they’ll be in touch. I’m sorry for your loss, yada, yada, yada. I zoned out for most of it.
The chief couldn’t wait for the FBI agent to leave so he could check that our little financial arrangement still stood. He’s as corrupted as they come. They all are, but I rely on their willingness to turn a blind eye. A transaction sealed with a monthly fee. Trusting them, however, is an option I could never entertain. Even with the cops on my payroll. The thin line between cooperation and betrayal hung in the air like cow shit in a field. A mess can happen quickly if you don’t tread carefully.
Part of me felt sorry for the way Kelly had broken down. The other part didn’t give a shit. Heartless yet true. My father was a scheming, evil bastard who didn’t deserve her tears. She should be glad to be rid of him.
I couldn’t confirm it, but I had my suspicions that he was abusing her. Some bruises are harder to hide than others. I guess they’re easier to spot when you know where he strikes. He used to whip me in the same place, on the back, where no one could see.
She didn’t deserve that. No woman should ever be beaten by their husband or cheated on. Eric had no conscience and wouldn’t know what remorse was if it jumped up and bit him on the ass. He fucked other women behind her back more times than I can count. She would spit on his grave if she knew the half of it. He had no loyalty to her or anyone else for that matter.
“That went as well as we could have hoped,” Colton says to no one in particular, taking a seat next to us in the office.
Caleb agrees, pulling a cigarette from his pack.
“Thought you said you quit because Jordin hates the smell?” Colton jokes.
“We all have our little addictions. What princess doesn’t know won’t hurt her.”
“Until she finds out and knee’s you in the balls,” I tease.
“She could,” he shrugs. “Then afterward, she has to kiss them all better. Worth it in my eyes.”
“You’ve never been kicked in the balls before, have you?” Colton laughs. “Trust me, bro, it isn’t fun.”
A light tapping sounds on the door, and I tell whoever it is to come in.
“Sorry to interrupt,” Lexy says meekly, poking her head through the office door. I smirk at Caleb, hiding the unlit cigarette from view.Chicken shit!
“Come here,” I demand, calling her to me.
Her steps are casual as she approaches, but I don’t miss the hint of nervousness on her shoulders.
