“Don’t worry so much, cuz. I’m sure this will be fine. If anything, it’ll be fun.” Shrugging, I shut off the engine and open the door, transferring the phone to my shoulder as I juggle my worn briefcase while I exit the car.
“Just…don’t get killed. I don’t want my son growing up without you. You’re an honorary uncle to him.”
It warms me briefly that she’d put that level of trust in me. It also concerns me. Perhaps she should see someone as well. Then again, at least I can make sure her son is well defended, and teach him fun practices. It’s always good to pass on knowledge to the next generation.
“Yeah, yeah. See you later, Ely. Be careful. Just because we got rid of our traitors…” I let myself trail off as I study the mansion suspiciously. Somewhere in there is a traitor. And perhaps I’ll have time to find them, if I’m not kept too busy with everything else…
With a worried sigh, Ely hangs up, not bothering to say goodbye. I shrug as I slide the phone into my pocket. If Ely could see my choice of attire, she’d probably scold me, but fuck knows these subjects need to get used to me. I only pretend under certain circumstances—and since this requires me to live on-site, I have no intention of wearing the skin of normality twenty-four seven.
I take the steps two at a time and the guard blinks at me. I can tell he wants to say something, but he opens the door for me anyway. I’m assuming Doc let them know to expect me.
Walking in, I wrinkle my nose at the foyer.Fucking hell.How can it be so ugly?Whatever. I’ll get used to it. Hopefully. They’d better give me a room that doesn’t look so gaudy. Otherwise, they can expect a remodeling bill.
“Are you Javi?” the butler asks me, appearing as if by magic. I blink at his sudden appearance, because it’s creepy as fuck. That’s usually my area, but he deserves a prize for superior lurking.
With a tight smile, I nod. “Yes. I believe I have an appointment.”
“Very well,” he states, and although his face is a mask of indifference, there’s subtle disapproval there. Likely he’s not used to seeing someone with as much fashion flair as me. Fucking suits seem to be the standard choice of wear here. Hell, even the guard was wearing one. “Follow me.”
I let the man lead me through a series of hallways and into what seems to be a conference room. It’s…bland. Seriously, have they not heard of decorating? At least, the chairs seem comfortable. I take a seat as the man withdraws, closing the door. I set my briefcase on the table as I wait, impatiently. There’s not even any artwork on the walls.What the fuck?My fingers itch to pull out a notebook and start making notes, because that’s for sure going in my clinician notes.Even I know that shit isn’t normal.
The door opens and I glance over, unsurprised to see Carter in the front, followed by Keegan and Jude. None of them need an introduction—my research is thorough. Carter at least isn’t wearing a suit, although that likely could be explained by the flour on his dress shirt. I’m somewhat surprised he cooks…or bakes…whatever. It’s a good sign, and my mind files it away.
“I’m sorry. You’re a little earlier than I expected, and I was baking with my son,” Carter offers with a smile. His eyes are tired, his face drawn, but there's happiness there as well.
I stand as they come closer, and I nod toward each one, not offering them my hand. Touch…isn’t my favorite thing. Thankfully, Carter seems to pick up on the cue. He gestures for me to sit as they take their spots; Jude on Carter’s left side, and Keegan on his right, with me across from them.
“No problem,” I respond calmly, waiting a beat before I follow up with, “Would that be Roman or Cole you were baking with?”
Keegan stiffens and I smother a laugh. Carter’s voice turns slightly cold as he retorts, “You certainly seem well informed. It was Cole.”
“I find it easier if I’m fully aware of my test subjects’ backgrounds before moving forward. And since this job is so…detailed, I thought it best to have extra information ahead of time. I’m sure you can understand.”
Jude visibly jerks at the mention of test subjects. He quickly signs something to Carter, and I have to suppress a smile. I can’t catch all of it, but I’ve been brushing up on Sign Language. I doubt I’ll be proficient in everything, considering they use a mix of ASL, SEE, and LIS, but Jude’s immediate objection to my wording presents an excellent opportunity to discover his stress point. I should perhaps tell them I understand some of what’s being said, but why ruin the fun?
Carter clears his throat and I stare at him politely, waiting for his next move. “Ah, that’s interesting terminology. However, you’re here for Hollis and Lio. I don’t believe any additional research was required.”
Or appreciatedgoes unsaid, but excitement flows through me because this is my chance to set them straight. “Actually…Doc made it clear I’d be living on-site, and as a professional, I have an obligation to make sure everyone is doing well. That being said, you can expect for more than Hollis and Lio to receive help. I also plan on working with the court system tomake sure Tennant is no longer available for such cruel bullying. That should not have happened. Still, I will not leave anyone who needs it without assistance.”
Carter’s face undergoes several rapid changes, as the relief of Tennant being released collides with the worry about what else I’ll find.
Keegan speaks up. “I believe you won’t be able to help those who aren’t ready for psychological help. Perhaps you should concentrate on why Doc brought you in instead?”
“Hmm. Disappointing.” Keegan raises an eyebrow at my response. “As a Dom, I’d expect you to want those near you to have help. Either you’re a shitty Dom who doesn’t care, or you’re trying to hide the amount of fuckery that exists here. In which case, I can tell you, I already know most of it. Hell, the Martellis could have fueled a dissertation all on their own with the mighty Il Padrone’s interesting methods. But, don’t worry, the Amatos aren’t slouches either.
“And, of course, there’s you, Mayhem. Quite the checkered background with patriotism, loyalty, and betrayal leading to your lover being killed. As for you, Jude, there’s family trauma. And Carter…the divorce is quite traumatic, on top of torture and childhood trauma.”
I stop talking, sitting back and folding my hands in my lap as I watch them digest how much I already know. The uncomfortable shifting and tightening of their facial muscles means I’ve scored direct hits. Good. They need to know I’m serious, because fuck if I’m going to only focus my talent on two people when there are way more here who need help. I may have a fun hobby of taking…things… apart, but I believe in my calling of taking care of people. Whether they want it or not.
“You have us at a disadvantage,” Carter says slowly. And I nod. Of course, I do. “What are you expecting while you’re here?”
I open my briefcase, taking out several folders. They’re all labeled with people’s names. Dropping them in front of the men, I say, “I expect full access to everyone. I’ll get this organization in top shape. I’ve already started my files, but I want to make it clear, work against me and I’ll walk right out that door. Step aside and let me do my job. I’ll also need a team of therapists. I’ll let you know who.”
“I believe Doc is bringing in Stanley West as a therapist.”
I laugh, because that’s going to be a shitshow of epic proportions. “Stanley, huh? Well, he never did like the guy. Can’t blame him, but it's interesting way to get rid of someone. Don’t worry, I’ll leave a list for who you’ll be replacing him with.”
They exchange glances, but don’t say anything. I think they may be a tad overwhelmed. Shrugging, I stand.
