Page 37 of Wade’s Wrath

Butcher looked toward one of his men. “Write that down.”

“And another company,” Harlow said. “Something Holdings.”

“Think,” Butcher ordered.

She squeezed her eyes tighter, and then it came to her. “Donnelly Meridian Holdings.” Wade cursed. “What?” she asked.

Butcher exchanged a look with him. “What?”

Wade leaned forward. “We know the name.”

Her stomach dropped. “How?”

“Donnelly Meridian owns property around Louisiana,” Wade said.

“What kind of property?” she asked.

“Warehouses,” Butcher answered.

Cold slid through her. “How do you know that?” Wade didn't answer, and Harlow looked between them. “What aren't you telling me?”

“Harlow—” Wade started.

“No.” She pushed her chair back. “You said you wouldn't lie to me.”

“I haven't lied to you,” he insisted.

“Then tell me.” Wade's eyes held hers. Finally, he looked at Butcher, and something silent passed between them.

Butcher sighed. “About six months ago, we had trouble with a shipment that went missing.”

“What kind of shipment?” she asked.

“Club business,” Butcher said.

“Was it illegal?” she asked.

Butcher smiled without humor. “Probably better if you don't ask.” Harlow nodded. “We traced the truck to a warehouse owned by Donnelly Meridian,” Butcher continued.

“And?” she asked.

“It was empty,” Butcher said.

“Completely empty?” she asked.

“Yes, by the time we got there, it was empty.” Wade leaned his forearms against the table. “But there were signs people had been staying there.”

Harlow stopped breathing. “What kind of signs?” Nobody answered immediately, and her stomach turned. “What kind?”

“Mattresses on the floors,” Wade said quietly. She closed her eyes. God. “And there were locks on the outside of doors.” Harlow covered her mouth. “And blood,” he whispered that last part. Her eyes flew open, and Wade looked like he regretted saying it. “Not much, though,” he quickly added.

“That doesn't make it better,” she insisted.

“I know,” Wade said. She stood.

Her legs felt weak, and Wade immediately rose with her. “I need⁠—”

“Air?” Wade asked. She nodded. “I'll come.”