“That’s why you’re so successful.” Sin paused. “Tonight was brutal.”
“Death always is.”
“You’re covered in blood spatter,” Sin said. “You want to swing by the hotel?”
“I’ll shower at Teddy’s,” Gabriel said.
“They’ll freak when they see you bloodied up again.”
“Someone’s gotta keep things lively.”
Sin chuffed out a laugh. “You are one fucked-up Santini.”
“That, I am, brother” he replied. “That, I am.”
HALSTON
Just past nine that evening,Halston drove into the upscale Alexandria neighborhood and stopped at the curb. After confirming she wasn’t being tailed, she called Caroline.
“Are you here?” her friend answered.
“I’m two blocks out.” Halston drove forward. “I had to be sure I wasn’t being followed.”
“I’m opening the garage door,” Caroline said. “Teddy parked on the street, so you can pull into the garage.”
“See you in a minute.” Halston hung up.
As she continued on, she eyed the holiday-decorated homes, their bright lights illuminating her way. Once in the garage, excitement flitted through her. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d been to a dinner party.
Sydney stood in the doorway smiling and waving. Once she cut the engine, Sydney pressed the garage door opener and the garage started closing. After it shut down, Halston stepped out. She pulled her tote and a bottle of wine from the back seat, made her way over.
“Welcome!” Sydney said before she hugged Halston hello.
Halston entered the beautiful home, offered the bottle to Sydney. “Thanks so much for having me.”
Sydney accepted the gift. “Love Santini wine, and we’re thrilled you’re here!”
In the kitchen, the delicious aromas of baked salmon and beef tenderloin reminded her of Sunday dinners with her family. Both ovens were on, there were covered serving bowls on the center island.
A contemporary table and six chairs anchored the kitchen while faux candles flickered as a centerpiece.
“I love how open your kitchen is,” Halston said.
As Sydney brought her into the family room, Caroline and two men stood to greet her.
“This is my fiancé, Tank,” Sydney said.
Built like one, he towered at six-three with long blond hair and a big smile. “I go by Tank or Teddy.”
Tonight, Halston had worn a platinum blonde wig, had in her tinted contacts.
“I’m Barbi. Thanks for having me over.”
Caroline hurried over, enveloped her in a warm hug. “I’m so happy you’re welcoming in the New Year with us. This is my fiancé, Greystone.”
Crap… it’s New Year’s Eve.
Greystone—also super tall with broad shoulders, a military-short haircut and a mustache—extended his hand. Halston shook it as her thoughts spiraled. She was a fifth wheel at a New Year’s Eve celebration.
