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She blew loose strands of her brown hair out of her eyes as she stood. “Sure. I need a break from counting anyway.” She patted my biceps as she passed me.
I raised the phone to my ear as Riley left and closed the door.
“What?” I asked, not disguising the irritation in my tone.
“Sorry, boss, I know you’re working, but I have information you need. This is a save-your-ass call,” Dope said.
We were twelve when I first met Dope, a.k.a. Hal. When he’d invited me to his house after school one day, he’d snuck into his brother’s stash, and he got stoned off his fucking ass. He had me laughing so hard I was doubled over. As we got to know each other, I realized he was a genius. Then, about six years ago, I bought him a bag of some seriously sick shit that was grown by the best dealer in the state. I slid the product to him along with an ironclad nondisclosure agreement that my attorney had drawn up. Like most of my collaborators, I needed to trust them, and a signed contract ensured that. Kip, along with a notary, were present to observe Dope signing the document.
Adjusting the phone, I sank onto the edge of the barstool. I pinched the bridge of my nose, ridding myself of the distracting thoughts that riddled my brain.
“What is it?” I asked.
He cleared his throat before he began speaking again. “I've gained access to the information of everyone currently in the club due to the bouncers scanning their driver’s license. While this method is effective for preventing drug dealers and pimps from entering, it's not as successful at keeping other types of criminals out.”
My gaze narrowed, waiting for him to clue me in. “It’s why there has to be eyes everywhere all the damn time.” Releasing a soft sigh, I rolled my shoulders in an attempt to alleviate some tension.
“Our vulture has arrived, and unfortunately, there’s a hitch. His wife is with him, which might make your job a little more difficult.”
“Son of a bitch. Why is she here? That fucks everything up. I’ll have to reassess.”
“Sorry to deliver the bad news, but I didn’t want you to start chatting with him, then get knocked off your game when she joined him. One wrong word and the entire plan turns into a shit show.”
“And my goddamn ass is on the line,” I muttered, standing before pacing the small room.
“Exactly. My recommendation? Steer clear. Go get laid and blow off some steam. You’re no use to anyone all fucking stressed out.”
“That would be great, but I’ve got too much shit to do.” I blew out a heavy breath. “On the bright side, at least it gives me more time to analyze the situation.”
“Just be careful. This guy’s a fucking shark. You’ve been putting in a lot of hours, and I know you’re running on fumes.”
My body stiffened. “Are you doubting me, Dope?”
“Never. But even the gods make mistakes. Just watch your back.”
My irritable reaction had just proven Dope right. I was exhausted and not my best. “Always. Thanks for the heads-up. I’ll catch you later.” I ended the call and stared at my cell in the palm of my hand. Maybe my friend was right, and I should enjoy my evening. Too bad it wouldn’t be with Ella’s thighs around my head.
I stood and approached the door, wondering why in the hell this woman had grabbed my attention so damn quickly. No matter what I longed for, though, I had to get her out of my system. I had shit to do and no room in my life for fucking feelings.
Chapter 3
Ella
“Laters, babe. Thanks for going out tonight,” my best friend Cami said as she pulled her car into my driveway.
“It was fun. I needed to blow off some steam.” I reached for the door handle.
“And that sexy bartender who flirted with you. Ella, you should go back and chat him up.”
My lips pressed into a thin line. “I don’t have time for a relationship.”
Cami shifted in her seat and looked at me. “You’ve used that excuse since before we were in college.” Cami smirked as she tapped her fingernails against the steering wheel. “I’ll just sign you up for speed dating.” An ornery glint filled her eyes. “Or better yet, I’ll find you a hottie on FarmersOnly.” She threw her head back and laughed hysterically. “I’ll even buy you your first pair of suspenders and cowboy boots.” She snorted loudly, then broke into laughter again.
“Don’t you dare.” I glared a hole into her, hoping like hell she wouldn’t go that far just because she thought I needed a man in my life.
Cami’s laughter died down, and she patted my leg. “I want you to be happy. That’s all. I know you’ve been dealing with a lot.”
I stared out of the front window. Cami and I had been friends for twelve years, and she knew nearly everything about me. Almost.
