Wow!Holden either had an exceptionally vivid imagination, or he’d watched one too many horror flicks.
She tightened her lips, doing her best to hold back a chuckle. She failed. Roxanne let out a soft snicker. “Does Cord have a habit of fucking women over?”
“He’s kind of a dick when it comes to girls.”
Why am I not surprised?After all, she was standing in his living room because he was trying to ghost her, and in turn, screw her over. Little did Cord know he wasn’t dealing with a heartbroken girl.Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.Roxanne eyed Holden, who was nervously rocking on his heels. She was going to use this to her advantage. If she had to guess, Cord’s brother could provide better insight into how his mind worked. And? The best angle to use in approaching Cord.
“So, Holden, tell me …” Roxanne was interrupted by a slamming door coming from the back of the house. Loud and aggressive footsteps pounded on tile. She leaned forward, trying to see past the doorframe, but she couldn’t from her position. She did, however, hear voices.Someone’s not happy!
“I said I was sorry! Christ, man, like you’ve never fucked up? Oh wait, that’s right you’re a goddamn saint. My bad.” The irritated and anger-laced tone was all too familiar and Roxanne cocked her brow, sharing a look with Holden.Welcome home, Cord. Your day is about to get shittier, you little prick!
“We’re not done here, Cord.” The second voice was deep, smooth and surprisingly, calm.
Cord came storming through the doorway with his fists balled and his boots stomping on the hardwood. She was about fifteen feet away, across the room and he didn’t even look over. If she had to guess from his direction and the layout, he was heading toward the stairs.
“He’s being a fucking dick.” Cord had his attention on his brother who stood near the steps as Roxanne watched the small exchange. “Don’t say I didn’t warn you, man.” Cord rounded the bend until Holden reached out grabbing his arm.
“Uh, you got company.” Holden lifted his chin in her direction. Cord jerked his head, looking over his shoulder with his gaze landing directly on Roxanne.
Hello, asshole!
She waved her fingers, smiling as she watched his tension instantly melt away only to be replaced by dread. Roxanne was fully enjoying the pure shock and panic flashing over his features.
“Oh fuck,” Cord muttered, dragging his hand over his face. As if his day couldn’t get any worse, here she was.
“Hello, Cord. Remember me?” Roxanne rested her hands on her hips and cocked her head.Oh, he remembers.He clenched his jaw and his cheeks hollowed.
“Shit.” He eyed the doorway he’d just come through and quickly glanced back at her, lowering his voice. “What are you doing here?”
“Well, since you won’t return my calls, I thought I’d stop by.”And surprise the hell out of you, shithead!She lost her smile and narrowed her eyes. “You owe me twelve-hundred dollars.”
“What?” Holden’s mouth fell open, darting his eyes between her and Cord. “Why do you owe her money?” Holden cupped his mouth and gasped. “Is she your bookie?”
Bookie?
Cord swiftly raised his hand, silencing the younger brother. He ground his teeth, giving a stern warning. “Shut up.”
Holden shook his head. “Oh man, if J finds out …”
“It’s not about that,” Cord snapped.
Whatever was happening between these two went beyond her little fender bender with Cord. It seemed she wasn’t the only person he owed money. Bookie? She sighed, shaking her head.
Cord inched forward and leaned in, whispering. “I’ll get you the money but you gotta leave. Now.”
Was he serious? It was almost comical and she’d have a good laugh retelling the story.After, she got her money.
Roxanne shook her head. “We tried that once before, remember?” She folded her arms. “I called you several times, left messages, all of which went unanswered.”
His cheeks flushed and she noticed him glance at the doorway again. Whatever or whomever was on the other side of the door would not bode well for Cord, she assumed.
“I know, I’ve been meaning to call you back. I just got busy. I’ll get it to you, I swear.” He pointed to the foyer. “But you gotta leave, right now.”
Roxanne released a heavy sigh, and snickered. “No offense Cord, but your word isn’t worth shit to me. I’m not leaving without the cash in my hand. So, do what you gotta do.” She waved her hand toward the second floor. “Run up those stairs, hit your money vault, your safe or your sock drawer.” She held out her palm. “Twelve-hundred dollars, please.” She paused and held up her finger. “And no, I will not accept a check, for obvious reasons.”
“Oh, you’re screwed, man.” Holden had to stop with his sideline commentary. She was having a hard time staying in character and keeping a straight face.
Cord clenched his fists. “Look, I’m good for it. I just need a few days.”
