by Ezra Dawn
Relinquishing my hold, I let Bruno lead Mr. Ryan away and head back into the office.
Before I can step fully inside, the window shatters and a bullet lodges itself into the desk. Callahan tackles Mickey from his chair and covers him with his body while I pull out my gun and take cover behind a bookshelf near the office door. Staying low, I creep over to the window, so I can peek out and look for the shooter.
Callahan peeks around the desk and says, “Do you see anyone?”
“No. Whoever it was is probably gone now. We should send a couple guys out to check the building next to us.”
“It’s abandoned.”
“So? It has a roof and snipers love roofs.”
Callahan laughs and says, “You have a point. We’ll send a couple guys out and have someone come patch up this window.”
Mickey moves until he’s behind the bookshelf before standing. “I need to have a conversation with the bastard who replaced the window when we bought the place. He assured me it was bulletproof but it’s obvious he lied, and I want to know why.”
Callahan grins and says, “I’ll send someone to pick him up.”
Mickey pinches the bridge of his nose and says, “Do it tomorrow. I’d like to go home and unwind a bit before the meeting with the Italians tonight.”
“Of course. Justice can accompany you while I take care of things here. I’ll have the car brought around.”
“That won’t be necessary, I’ll take him in my car, so I don’t have to come back for it. It also means his attackers won’t expect it.”
Callahan nods and says, “Maybe I should have the car brought around anyways. It’ll serve as a decoy just in case the people after him are still out there.”
“That’s a good plan. Bring the car around to the back of the building while I sneak him out the front.”
Callahan pulls out his phone and sends a text message to someone. As soon as his phone dings with a reply, he opens the door and steps out. Mickey follows him, and I bring up the rear, keeping Mickey in between us. When we walk through the hall, two more men in suits fall into step on either side of Mickey surrounding him with a wall of muscle.
Callahan looks over his shoulder and says, “We’re going to make a show of opening the door to the town car as if Mickey were inside it.”
“Got it.”
Callahan and the two guards leave us as soon as the hallway leading toward the back exit appears. Once they reach the door, I wait for them to open it and step out before I lead Mickey to the front. It’ll give them a chance to send the car away so if someone is still lurking around they’ll follow it.
When we reach the front exit, I turn to Mickey and say, “Wait here. I’m going to make sure it’s clear then get the car.”
Mickey nods and I walk out of the warehouse heading straight for my SUV while keeping an eye on my surroundings. As soon as I reach the car, I quickly check it to make sure no one has planted a bomb or tracking device on it before I get in. Quickly, I drive to the front door, and hop out, leaving the car running. Once again, I check my surroundings before opening the back door and winking at Mickey. “Your chariot awaits, mouse.”
He laughs and pats my shoulder as he passes. Closing the door behind him, I circle around the car and climb in.
Glancing in the rearview mirror, I see Mickey looking out the window while resting his chin on his fist. “Where to?”
“My house.”
Grinning, I say, “I know that mouse, I need an address.”
His cheeks turn pink and he says, “Very funny, blondie. It’s the condominium across from the Waldorf.”
Pulling up the GPS, I punch the Waldorf into the search bar, and use that as the address since the condominium is across the street.
“So, Justice… you don’t sound like you’re from Boston.”
“That’s because I’m not. I was born in Nashville, Tennessee but moved to Virginia when I joined the Army and was stationed in Fort Eustis.”
“What brought you to Boston?”
“I needed a change of scenery.”
“Why is that?”
“I was in a relationship. We’d been together for a few years until one day, I came home and found him in bed with the neighbor. Considering I wasn’t even that upset shows just how bad the relationship was. Since we shared a house that was originally his, moving out was the only choice I had.”
“Damn. I’m sorry that happened.”
“It’s fine. I’m over it.”
“You still haven’t told me why you chose Boston.”
“If I tell you, you have to promise not to laugh.”
“I promise.”
“When I moved out, I had to put some of my stuff in storage while I stayed in a hotel. I was living out of a hotel for a few months burning a hole in my savings account while I tried to decide what to do with myself. Since I have PTSD, it was hard finding a job that wouldn’t trigger an episode.”
I glance at him in the mirror and continue, “It didn’t help that I was living in a small town, so it felt like everywhere I went, I ran into my ex. Eventually, I decided to leave but wasn’t sure where I wanted to go. So, I bought a map at a gas station, went to the only bar in town, taped the map to the dart board and told myself that wherever the dart landed is where I would go.”
“And the dart landed on Boston?”
“It did. So, here I am. I was at a bar near my house when I heard a couple of guys talking about your open invitation for a security position. Figured I’d apply since I probably couldn’t get a job elsewhere.”
“You said you have PTSD. How come being shot at today didn’t trigger something?”
“It’s not exactly predictable. There’s no telling what will set me off and what won’t. It’s just something I have to roll with. Most of the time it’s because of something that sounds like a bomb. But occasionally, a car backfiring will have me taking cover and let’s not forget about the nightmares.”
Before I can continue, Mickey says, “Go to the top floor of the parking garage. That floor is secure, so you’ll need the code to give you access.”
With a nod, I pull into the parking garage attached to the condominium and head to the top floor. Mickey gives me the code and once the garage door sealing this level off from the others closes behind us, I park the car.
Climbing out, I open the door for Mickey. He walks over to an elevator and punches in a code. When the doors open, he steps inside, and I follow. The elevator stops and opens to a hallway with only one door. Mickey uses a code alongside the key to open the door, but I stop him from going inside. “Let me check it first.”
“It’s completely secure. I don’t think anyone would be able to get in.”
“It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
He sighs and motions for me to enter ahead of him.
What a clusterfuck. That thought sums up my entire day. First, I was shot at, now this. I can understand looking out for my safety but, I think checking my secure apartment before I walk inside is going a little overboard. Honestly, I can’t say that anyone has ever done that before. Not even Callahan. It’s a little weird but for some reason, makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. Apparently, having blondie look out for me in that way pushes a hot button I wasn’t aware I had.
With a sigh, I strip out of my suit jacket toss it on the couch and loosen my tie. Once relatively comfortable, I head for my liquor cabinet and pour myself some whiskey.
“You know, you probably shouldn’t drink so much. I’m sure your liver would thank you.”
“I don’t drink that much. This is my second glass. Good Irish whiskey is meant to be savored not tossed back like a shot.”
“So, you don’t drink it in your coffee then?”
Turning to face him, I see him standing in the kitchen by the coffee maker holding the bottle I keep there. His eyebrow is raised in challenge like he’s daring me to lie.
With a grin, I wink at him and say, “Now, I never said that. A splash of Bail
ey’s in my morning brew always perks me up.”
“I bet it does.”
Seeing his pink cheeks, I can’t stop myself from teasing. “Get your mind out of the gutter, blondie.”
He flips me off and says, “Kiss my ass, mouse.”
“I’d love to, blondie. Just say when.”
He grabs a bottle of water from the fridge and says, “You’re going to keep me on my toes, aren’t you, mouse?”
“It wouldn’t be fun if I didn’t.”
He rolls his eyes and takes a sip of water.
I pat the cushion next to me and say, “Come sit. We’ve got a few hours to kill before it’s time to leave for the restaurant so let’s watch some TV. You like baseball?”
Justice takes a seat at the end of the couch, putting a whole cushion between us. “Yeah, I like baseball.”
“What’s your favorite team?”
“I don’t really have one. Usually, I just root for whichever team is favored to lose. What about you? What’s your favorite team?”
“The Red Sox.”
Grabbing the remote from the end table, I turn on the TV and flip through the channels, looking for a game to watch. Settling on a Yankees v. Mariners game, I relax into the cushions and sigh. Can’t remember the last time I felt this weary, if ever.
“So, being shot at, is that a normal occurrence for you?”
“Actually, no. This kind of thing usually only happens during a turf war or when a deal goes bad. Today, was a direct attempt on my life. Which means, whoever is trying to take my place is getting desperate. Sending a sniper after me screams impulsive. Whoever it is, is getting impatient.”
“Impatience means the person or persons after you will be less inclined to cover their tracks and will be easier to find.”
“I hope you’re right about that. I’m not sure how much longer I can deal with this. I’m used to looking over my shoulder, but I’ve never had to worry about the threat coming from my own people before. Betrayal has never been something I’ve had to experience.”
Running my fingers through my hair, I continue, “The threat to my life that is a constant not always acted on is one of the reasons why I can’t have a relationship with anyone. Even if that person knows how to defend themselves. Defense only goes so far. It can’t stop a bullet fired from thousands of yards away, and it probably won’t stop a kidnapper either. Let’s not forget what would happen if kids were involved. I’d hate myself if my future children were caught in the crossfire. So, I choose not to get too attached.”
“Sounds lonely.”
“Yeah, it is. But, it’s the price I have to pay.”
“Is what you do really worth your happiness?”
“Not hardly. But, the money I earn that gives me the ability to help those in need is worth any price.”
“Have you ever thought of taking the organization legit?”
“It’s crossed my mind. However, at this moment in time, I don’t have enough of a reason to want to get out of the illegal side of things.”
“Your life isn’t a good enough reason?”
“It would be, if I had something to live for.”
“I don’t know what to say to that.”
“You don’t have to say anything but thanks anyway.”
“You’re welcome.”
“So, how long until we have to leave.”
“Two hours.”
“Think the game will be over by then?”
“I doubt it. It’s only the fourth inning.”
“Damn.”
Laughing at the pouty expression on his face, I pat his shoulder and say, “We can check the scores later.”
“It’s not the same.”
“Why don’t I record it on the DVR and you can watch the rest of it when we get back.”
“I’ll hold you to that.”
Picking up the remote, I press the red button and set the DVR to record.
Nearly an hour later, Justice says, “Hey, do you have any popcorn?”
“I’m sure I do. Check the pantry.”
“You want any?”
“No thanks.”
He nods, and heads into the kitchen. I admire his backside as he goes. Such a fine ass… is it wrong of me to want to bite it? Damn, I hope not because it sounds like that’d be a lot of fun.
“So, blondie, why did you join the military?”
“It was my way of escaping. My home life wasn’t that great. Dad was an alcoholic who liked to beat on my mom and me. Mom tried to get us out of there so many times, but he always tracked us down. When his habit finally killed him a year before my eighteenth birthday, I wasn’t even sad about it. That house and that town held a lot of bad memories for me, and since I didn’t have the smarts or athletic ability to get into college on a scholarship, the military was really the only option.”
“What happened to your mom?”
He looks over his shoulder at me and grins brightly. “She got remarried a few years after I left and moved to Alaska. My step-dad is a good man. He works on an oil rig, so he’s gone a lot, but my mom doesn’t seem to mind it. I’m glad she found someone who treats her the way she deserves.”
“What about you? Is there anyone special in your life who treats you the way you deserve?”
“No. After my last relationship disaster, I’ve decided to stick to casual sex. It’s easier.”
Hm… casual sex… I could work with that.
“So, if I offered to be your casual sex partner for however long you want, would you accept?”
“I’d love to, but I can’t.”
“Why not?”
“I told myself when I got the job that even if you are my type, I’d keep things professional, so I can focus on your safety. I can’t have my judgement clouded.”
“Sleeping with me won’t cloud your judgement. It’ll just give you more of an incentive to protect me. Now, if you were protecting anyone other than me, I’d agree with you on this subject, but you aren’t so there’s no reason to deny something we’d both enjoy.”
“What if, we’re in the middle of a club and instead of focusing on your surroundings, I’m too busy shoving my tongue down your throat and someone takes a shot at you? While I’m sure we’d both enjoy what you’re offering, I can’t risk your life just to get laid. I’m sorry.”
“Don’t be. I’ll concede for now, but mark my words, blondie, just because you’ve won this round, doesn’t mean I’ll stop trying to convince you.”
He grins and winks. “Looking forward to it, mouse.”
Standing, I stretch and cross to the kitchen. “For now, I think I’ll give you a little taste of what you’re passing up.”
Before he can try to escape, I grip his shirt and pull him to me, pressing my mouth to his. At first, he’s too surprised to reciprocate, but after a little coaxing, he surrenders. I tangle my tongue with his briefly before pulling away.
“Still want to say no?”
“I don’t want to, but I have to. For now.”
I raise an eyebrow at him and grin. “For now, huh? Good to know.”
He buries his face in his hands and says, “I shouldn’t have said that.”
“Too late. It’s out there now, blondie. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to take a shower and change. Shame you won’t be joining me. I’ve never tried shower sex, but it sounds enjoyable.”
He groans and shakes his head. “You’re going to be the death of me.”
“But, what a way to go, huh?”
With a laugh, I saunter away and head for my bedroom.
Damn, that man’s kisses should be illegal. If he wasn’t hard to resist before, he definitely is now. Hmm… maybe now is a good time to look around. See if I can find anything. Since I’m not sure how long Mickey will be, I head straight for the office I discovered when I checked for intruders. Shutting the door behind me, I make my way to the desk and begin opening drawers. Carefully, I remove the papers I find and take pictures of everything, so I can look
them over later and decide what’s pertinent to the investigation and what isn’t. I take care not to put them back in the wrong order and continue my search.
Once satisfied that I did what I could, I exit the office after making sure Mickey is nowhere to be found and head across the hall to the spare bathroom. After relieving myself, I wash my hands and splash some water on my face, using the hand towel to dry off. When I exit the bathroom, I nearly run into Mickey who is busy securing his cufflinks as he walks down the hall towards his room. He grins when he spots me.
“I was wondering where you disappeared to.”
His grin turns cheeky and with a raised eyebrow he says, “Had to rub one out, didn’t ya?”
Feeling a blush creep up my neck, I flip him off and say, “Shut up.”
He steps forward and slips a finger under my shirt collar, pulling it away from my chest as he says, “You blush so prettily blondie. I wonder if it stretches further than what I can see.”
“Christ mouse, you’re relentless.”
With a wink, he lets go of my shirt collar and pats my chest. “You ain’t seen nothin’ yet blondie. Now, I can’t take you to this meeting in jeans and a t-shirt, so I picked out something for you. We’re the same height and build so it should fit. There’s a tie and cufflinks too. As for the shoes, if they don’t fit, you can wear the boots you have on. I left everything on the bed in the spare bedroom. Go get changed.”
Before I can think better of it, I press a kiss to his cheek and walk down the hall to the spare room. When I close the door to the room, what I just did finally sinks in. Shit! I just gave him more ammunition to use against me. If he’s already worn me down this much in only a few hours, how much longer will I be able to say no? Better yet, how long before I start to care? Remember, this is only a job. Get it done and move on. You can’t let yourself care for the target or you’ll screw everything up.
“What’s taking so long, blondie? Need some help?”
“I’ll be out in a minute.”
Quickly, I strip out of my clothes and put on the suit. It’s a shade lighter than the dark gray and red pinstripe suit Mickey has on right now. After I tie the tie, I sit on the edge of the bed and pull on the shoes. They’re a little snug but not uncomfortable. Grabbing the cufflinks, I try not to roll my eyes when I see they’re little grim reapers.