Is she trying to find the sources of my income? If so, it’ll take her years. I should be kind and have Alfie create a dossier she can peruse at her convenience, leaving more time for me.
It’s sensitive information, data that my enemies would love to get their hands on, so I’ll have to insist on security measures, like her being tied up in my private dungeon, before I allow her access.
The thought makes me smile.
Then I see what prompted her to seek out this information and choke on pure rage.
Her search terms read: “New Rome Sebastian St. James.”
Why is she researching my sometimes business partner and oftentimes rival?
“Alfie, cross reference Inara Ramos with Sebastian St. James. What are his movements in relation to hers?”
A friendly, high-pitched voice says, “Calculating. Attendance, New Rome PD ball. Sebastian St. James arrival, twenty minutes after you, two hours before Inara Ramos.”
“What else?”
“Sebastian St. James, co-owner of Club Empire. Inara Ramos, platinum member since September?—”
“Anything today?” I interrupt it.
“Inara Ramos, incoming phone call. Sebastian St James.”
He’s called her. The bastard. “Run transcription.”
“Running.” Alfie chirps twice. “Transcription not available.”
I have Inara’s phone tapped. Every call she gets is recorded. That’s how I tracked her friend Mina. I know everyone she calls or texts and the contents of each conversation.
Except for this one.
Which means he blocked my trace.
St. James is no one to mess with, and my little bird has caught his eye. He’s trying to reel her in, and that will not stand.
“Where is Target Swallow now?”
“Inara Ramos, booked a rideshare. Destination, Club Empire.”
“Keep monitoring. I’m going out.”
No one fucks with my little bird. No one but me.
* * *
MY Swallow,
I knowyou’ve been unfaithful. I watched you go to the club to talk to HIM. What can HE give you that I can’t? We share a bond. It’s special. If you don’t stay away from him, there will be consequences.
I’ve tried to keep the ugliness from our perfect connection, but you leave me no choice. I won’t let anyone have you. I’ll DESTROY anyone who thinks they can get close to you. Even if it hurts, I’ll keep you pure. If that means killing everyone close to you, I will.
And if I have to, I’ll break your wings.
BK
20
Inara
