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“So, what’s going on with our White Knight?” Mel’s eyes focused on her phone.
“An interesting development in the case.”
“How interesting?”
The deep voice behind them made Anastacia nearly jump out of her skin as Mel moved between her and the speaker. Anastacia spun to find Montgomery, arms crossed over his chest, peering down at her with an eyebrow raised as he waited for an answer.
“Montgomery," she greeted with a smile. “I heard Knight was looking for Dominic a little earlier. Did they get to have their talk?”
“Dominic is more interested in talking with you.” Montgomery gestured to the long black luxury vehicle behind him, just short of being a limo. He swung a hand to her back, pushing her toward the vehicle. “I wouldn’t keep him waiting.”
Anastacia thought she should try to dig her heels in and refuse to go. Maybe she should push Montgomery away and try to run for it. Swipe a thumb down the phone screen to call 9-1-1. Instead, her feet carried her forward. Montgomery could easily throw her in the trunk of the car and trying to push the wall of a man wouldn’t help.
“Well, if he insists.”
Rushing beside them, Mel jumped into the vehicle before Anastacia got to the door. Leaning over, she peered into the gray depths of the car. The tinted windows blocked out most of the light, making the car seem empty. Her nose crinkled against the stench of stale cigar smoke rolling from the opening.
“He’s in here, Stacia, but it’s okay. I’ve got you. I won’t let anyone hurt you.”
With a resolute nod, she slid into the large, leather seat at the back. Her stomach flipped when the door slammed shut as soon as she pulled her legs in. With the front door closed, the vehicle lurched forward.
“Hello, baby. I thought we’d clear some air.”
“DominicDeblous,apleasureto see you again so soon.” Anastacia was happy the fluttering insecurity in her stomach wasn't in her voice. She heard the door locks engage with a heavy click as they pulled away from the curb.
“Still such a polite thing, aren’t you?” Dominic sat in the middle of the bench seat across from her. It was his usual spot if she read the wear of the leather correctly. He pointed his fingers at her, an unlit cigar between them, a predatory smile stretching his cheeks.
A small shift of a shadow hung from his shoulder while another tiny form hugged his side, both spirits partially filling the empty seat on either side of him. He failed to notice them as he made himself comfortable on his mobile throne.
“I try.” She smiled carefully and examined the cigar. “I also appreciate you remembering my sensitivity to cigar smoke. You haven’t lit it yet. I feel if we continue to show one another respect, as we have, why can’t we have a polite conversation?”
“My sentiments exactly.” He pushed a button on the side panel to his right.
“Yes, boss?” Montgomery’s voice buzzed through the intercom.
“I’m feeling peckish. Take me to my favorite café, eh?”
There was a small beep from the intercom signaling agreement.
Dominic’s attention locked back onto Anastacia. “We’ll take the long way. See about droppin’ you off at the station.”
“That’s thoughtful of you. Thank you.” Her smile dropped a little. “You wanted to clear the air?”
“To the point, like Knight. Hopefully, one of the only things you share with him," he sighed and leaned back in his seat, getting comfortable. “I feel like I have someone stepping on my toes. Trying to pin somethin’ on me.”
Her head tilted in question. “Are you inferring you haven’t done something?”
“Oh baby, I have done many a thing, most being unpleasant, but killin’ the newbie isn’t one of ‘em. It’s a risk for absolutely no reward. What would it have gained me?”
Mel sat close to Anastacia and though he still phased through her, the frigid pressure on her side was reassuring. If she needed it, he could play some havoc with the electrical systems. His arm rested over the back of their seat behind Anastacia’s neck, a nearly freezing, but soothing presence.
Leaning toward her, he whispered, “Gatekeeper.”
Anastacia’s eyes flew to the movement she saw when she first got into the car. Mel was right. There was a small spit of darkness over Dominic’s right shoulder, two wide black eyes staring at them both. She took a breath and put her hand out next to her. Not knowing if the action was to give Mel support or to show the Gatekeeper he was with her. Shedidn’t know if it would even make a difference, but she couldn’t help feeling protective of him. Her eyes flicked back to Dominic, who waited for her response.
“Maybe gaining your investment back?” She ran her hand over the seat to feign disinterest.
“I gave nothing to his little friend for their bar. I have better prospects in the works.”
