I zip the thigh-high boots and square my shoulders.
It’s time to see if I can pull this off.
The first test is right outside those doors.
“What do you think, boys?” I step out with more bravado than bravery.
“This is a really bad idea. Max is going to kill us all.”
“You’ll do. Let’s go.” Vex has such a way with words.
I saunter over to his wall of goodies and pull out two throwing knives. “Louisella would approve.” After sliding them into my boots, I follow Vex out.
***
It’s cold. I forgot just how cold it is in the middle of winter when you have to walk down the street barely clothed.
Two blocks ago, I dropped the jammer into the trash. In a few steps, my future will be determined. All it’s going to take is one or two ‘tricks’ before someone notices the brand and spreads the word.
You aren’t weak. You aren’t afraid…
That’s the worst lie I’ve ever told myself.
Saving your friend is more important than fear or cold.
I hunch a little and add in the walk I’ve seen done since I was small.
“Wrong corner. Pick a different place to work.” A woman walks up to me as soon as I arrive. She’s in the standard uniform.
“But I like this spot. It’s a free world, and I think I’ll stay. At least for a little while.”
“You’re playing with fire, little girl. Go find somewhere else to make your money tonight. You don’t want to mess around here. He ain’t playing.”
No, he isn’t. And I’ll remember the kindness. “I like playing with fire.”
An SUV pulls up. “Any of you ladies up for a party?”
“Always.” I sashay up to the window and lean in, making sure my brand is in eyeshot of them. One of the benefits of being half naked is it’s hard to miss… “Partying is my favorite. As long as you got what I need.”
“Sure do.” He flips up a hundred-dollar bill in a smiley-face money clip. The sign of a safe ride.
“See you all later.” I give them a fake wave before hopping into the warm vehicle.
He turns the temperature up as we drive away.
“Drive around for ten minutes, and then you can drop me back off.”
“There’s no need to insult me. Let’s make it fifteen. My name’s Fly.”
“Nice to meet you.” I lean against the vents, trying to absorb all the heat I can.
“Vex warned me that you’re taken. But I gotta ask, are you taken in the forever kind of way, or could I tempt you with a ride on my motorcycle when this is all done?”
Like there’s going to be an after for me…If there is, will Max forgive me? “I’ve never ridden a bike.”
“There’s nothing in the world like it. There’s a blanket in the back if you want to use it.”
“Thanks.” I reach into the back and pull the soft throw around me. It’s so much like the ones Max got me…
