Sin & Saint (Executioners Book 4)

by J. M. Dabney

  “Break a hip, you know—”

  “I’d arrest your ass if I didn’t need you, Linus.”

  “No, you wouldn’t. I’m like your best friend.”

  “That doesn’t say much about my sad existence. Can we get to work now?”

  “We’ve been working, you’ve been counting and trying not to murder us since you got here,” Raul stated from his spot beside Pure at the conference table.

  “I don’t think anyone needs to know about my sex life, that’s between me and my boys.”

  “Did you forget who your friends are?”

  “You’re not my friends. You’re annoying people I can’t get rid of.”

  “We’re fucking hurt, but not as hurt as your boys’ asses if you broke the bed pounding one out. Nice one, man.” Little snorted, then chugged an energy drink.

  That kid didn’t need caffeine. “Quit thinking about my boys’ asses. What is it with y’all and your obsession with sex?”

  “Aw, come on, man, most of us except Linus ain’t getting any. We live vicariously through the erotic exploits of our friends.”

  “We’re getting plenty, Little. We don’t scare, well, except Pure he’s—”

  Raul cut Liv off with a growl, “Can we get back to fucking work?”

  Raul’s obsession with the innocent Pure was weird. The man wasn’t going to do shit about it, but anyone made one comment about Pure, and the man went homicidal. The man needed to man up or just fucking let it go.

  “Since Pure’s boyfriend is ruining our fun…” Linus appeared disgusted by their ruined fun. “Little, what have you found out?”

  “Shipments—”

  “People,” Gage corrected.

  “People are being shipped about once a month, been no sign of activity the last three weeks. The reports that I’ve found and what Hunter came up with, there’re sightings last Sunday of every month. Kinda weird if you ask me. A venture as profitable as what they have going on. Shit, the numbers are staggering.”

  “Hunter said that it’s a small operation based out of Atlanta and New Orleans. Seems when Thorpe went down, his partners scaled back, possibly to cover their asses. The names in the files are the main players that we could find. There’re several dirty cops on the payroll. From small-town deputies to state police.” Gage pointed to the flat screen TV. “I talked to King.”

  “What did he have to say about it?” he asked as he studied the faces on screen. A few he recognized from his days with the state police. No one he’d worked with directly but that didn’t mean anything.

  “Same as when we were dealing with Thorpe. Truckers make extra cash with shipments. Weights are fucked with to make it passed weigh stations. Sometimes they pick up runaways, contact someone and turn them over for a hefty fee. Enough coordination and the same Troopers are on duty, and they wave the identified transport through.”

  Linus sat on the long table in front of the window. He observed as the man lost the amusement of minutes before.

  “What you thinking, Linus?”

  “Pelter, I’m thinking these people fucked up when they thought to use Powers. But with this amount of corruption? It has to go a lot higher than some Troopers. Did anyone hit your radar?”

  He nodded to Gage and the man pulled up the pictures he’d emailed him earlier.

  “This was my team, most good guys, a lot with ex-wives or kids in college. They pocketed cash but left the drugs. Not enough evidence to indict. There was one guy, in particular, I had my eyes on. But the problem was, I couldn’t take it higher up the command.” He walked toward the screen and pointed at the bastard in particular. “He disappeared quite a bit during our operation here to take Thorpe down. He’s closeted, so I thought he was just meeting a trick while out of his territory.”

  “What makes you suspect him?” Liv drew his attention.

  “He worked on the Louisiana State Police. Why he left was a mystery. Just one day he was transferred into my unit. He didn’t meet the profile. Most of the guys I worked with worked their way up. I wasn’t given a choice about his assignment. For a while, I thought he was a plant, since I already suspected some of my team of being dirty. I couldn’t go to anyone, so I contacted a friend at the FBI. I trusted him.”

  “What he have to say?”

  “Gage, it was the same bullshit. The amount of human traffickers is fucking ridiculous. They deal in runaways. Women smuggled in from other countries who have no one who’s going to miss them. We don’t find out shit until we find bodies or we luck into finding where they’re being shipped in from. Gallen took a lot of personal time on the clock. I had my friend check his financials. Nothing seemed odd. Which didn’t surprise me.”

  “Dirty cops stay hidden so fucking long because they know what not to do unless they get greedy. But with your former team—”

  “We were trained to find the clues. Yeah, Liv, I tried my damnedest to find out who was who and all I had was speculation and no real evidence. Except for one thing, a witness. She wasn’t going to talk and sure as fuck wasn’t going to stand up in court and point him out. She went off grid about two months before I moved here.

  “I thought with me gone, they’d slip up, but again nothing. They froze me out. When I got the reports of activity out at Thorpe’s place, I went out a few times. Always missed whoever it was, but fresh tracks meant someone was out there. It’s out of the way.”

  “Yeah, in this town, you gotta know the spots. Thorpe’s place, even the kids don’t go out there to drink or party.” Little stood and grabbed another energy drink from the fridge.

  “How do you not have a heart attack?”

  “It’s the only thing that keeps me going.” Little took the spot beside Linus. “I had a friend hack into aerial photos, maybe track down times. The best I can tell, its monthly. Quick in and out trips, off-load the merchandise and head out again. Next weigh station they pull out the correct paperwork with the right info. Free and clear.”

  He tugged at his goatee in frustration. “If it is Gallen, then he knows this is my town.”

  “He thinks you’re getting too close and he’s going after yours.”

  He didn't need Linus to point out his greatest fear. He wasn’t stupid enough to think that Gallen hadn’t done his homework.

  “That’s the biggest worry I got right now. Eric and Ellison are staying out at my place. I don’t know. I don’t want to freak them out, but—”

  “You don’t got a choice, man. We’ll set up a guard,” Livingston offered.

  “Me and Raul can split the shifts. When Pelter’s with them they’re good,” Pure spoke up. “Besides, Sin and Saint know us, and they’ll be more comfortable instead of bringing in outside contractors. I could call some of my old teammates who owe me a favor or two, but strangers in town draw attention.”

  “Yeah, I’ll go home tonight and talk to them.”

  “We’ll set up a rotating watch. Wren wouldn’t mind pitching in when he’s not on duty. My team is single, most of us don’t have a family to target. I’ll meet with the Crews and tell them to keep an eye out. The partners are pretty observant, and they rarely go anywhere alone. We’re a pretty paranoid group.” Linus poured himself another cup of coffee.

  “Man, if I brought this shit to y’all doorsteps—”

  Linus cursed and shook his head. “Pelter, this ain’t your fault. Thorpe set this place up with his years of running dirty out at his place. We set an example. You might not think you made much of an impact around here, but this place is hundred times better with you protecting this town. We sure as fuck don’t want to go back.”

  “We’ll take care of this. I got the PR covered, and Peaches will handle any unpleasantness of possible jail time.” Gage leaned back in his chair.

  He knew Linus was right, but it didn’t help the fact he felt guilty. He’d possibly put his boys in danger, and that was something he couldn’t accept.

  “I better get going, Layla’s out at my place with Eric and Ellison.”<
br />
  “Meeting the future mother-in-law.”

  “Don’t sound so fucking amused, Linus. I’ve never met parents before.”

  “About fucking time, and don’t even think about having anyone perform the ceremony or Lily will kill you.”

  “Who said anything about marriage?”

  “You know you’re marrying those boys of yours. I’m just surprised you didn’t do it after the first night they stayed at your place.”

  “Shut up, Linus, I have to survive meeting their mom, and then I’ll think about rings.”

  “Whatever you say. We got this handled. I’ll call when we set up mission planning.”

  “Thanks, Linus, everyone. I hate that I brought this here.”

  “Ain’t your fault, don’t know how many times gotta tell you that. I’ll have Hunter take care of a few things.”

  “I don’t want to know.”

  “I wasn’t going to tell you.”

  “I’m already so far off the books with this one.”

  “You’re Sheriff around here. Your operation. As long as it’s on your book, doesn’t matter. Your investigation, your rules.”

  They took care of a few more details and then he left, not feeling much lighter. As the weeks passed and his investigation stalled, he hadn’t had a choice but to contact Linus. The situation had to end, and he didn’t want to deal with the bullshit. He was ready for a nice, quiet life with his boys and this situation was fucking with his plans. If it was Gallen, that fucker would regret being anywhere near Eric and Ellison. His family came first, and their safety was the only thing that mattered to him.

  Sixteen

  They Didn’t Need a Security Detail

  His body was pleasantly sore after a quickie before his mama arrived from shopping in town. Yet what ruined him and Saint’s post-orgasmic bliss was the fact Camden wanted them to have security. He understood it and knew how shit was when Thorpe ran the town, but they didn’t want to account for their every move—at least not to anyone besides Camden.

  Their man made them promise though, and what Daddy wanted, Daddy got. Why he loved that annoying man, he didn’t know. Okay, he did, Pelter was damn near perfect. He took care of them. Their every need was met. They were always safe, and they couldn’t take that away from Camden. They didn’t need a security detail though. They were capable of taking care of themselves.

  “Eric, are you dressed,” his mama yelled through the door.

  “Yes, but when has that stopped you?”

  He laughed as the door opened. His mama hadn’t changed much since the last time they saw her. She was thin, but her muscles were defined by the work she did.

  “Where’s your man at? He isn’t hiding, is he?”

  “No, Camden isn’t hiding. He had a work call, and I think he went to his office. Saint was with him.”

  “We’re not going to walk—”

  “If you were twenty minutes earlier then you would’ve walked in on something.”

  She linked her arm with his, and they walked downstairs. He slid the doors of Camden’s office open. Saint was perched on Camden’s desk, Camden’s arm lay across his lap, and Camden was just hanging up.

  Camden stood up but leaned down to kiss Saint before striding around the desk and extending his hand toward Mama. “Sorry, Linus needed some information. Mrs.—”

  “Please, call me Layla.”

  “Layla, I’m Camden, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. Ellison and Eric have told me a lot about you.”

  “I’ve heard a lot about you too, over the years. Was surprised when they told me you’d agreed to date them.”

  He tensed waiting for the awkwardness. Camden just grinned and wrapped his arm around Saint as his twin leaned into Camden’s side. It was a silent show of support. Their man had told them he was nervous about meeting their mama and they didn’t blame him. Camden hadn’t dealt with parents or a long-term relationship before.

  “I have to be honest, I’m pretty stuck in my ways, and my former job was a dangerous one. They met me when I was still working with the state police. Undercover work doesn’t really allow for healthy relationships especially ones that haven’t been established. I’ve made too many visits to loved ones left behind, and I didn’t want that for someone.”

  “Sounds very lonely.”

  “It was. But when I moved here, I wanted something different, and my boys are beautiful and sweet. There was no way I could resist making them mine.”

  “You going to marry my sons?”

  “Mama, that’s not—”

  “When the time is right, and they’re sure they want to be tied to this old man permanently, I’ll ask them.”

  He didn’t know what to say, he stared at his brother and then they both turned their full attention to Camden. He’d said it like it was nothing, a done deal when they were ready. Oh shit, until he’d said it, they hadn’t wanted to hope for more than they had with Camden, but now it was more.

  “I would’ve rather talked to them about that in private, but I don’t hide what they are to me in public so I sure as hell won’t do it in our house. Before y’all came in, Ellison was telling me dinner was about ready. We can continue the interrogation over a meal.”

  “I’d like that, Camden.” Layla just smiled and turned to leave the room.

  “Don’t gawk, I won’t ask until we’re all sure, but you two are mine. I know it’s only been a few months, but to be honest, I didn’t stand a chance of resisting. Even when I said no the night you two came up to me at Brawlers, it killed me to say it. Now, let’s go eat, and your mom can ask me all the embarrassing questions she wants.”

  They nodded and accepted kisses, then he took their hands and led them to the kitchen.

  “Boys, sit.”

  “Yes, sir,” they answered and took their usual places. Saint on the right side of Camden’s spot and him on the left.

  They watched amused as their mama observed Camden make their plates and fill their glasses before he even thought about doing his own. Each was served which was followed by their forehead kiss. Dinner time was only second to bedtime. They were tucked in while Camden showered, and then they separated to allow Camden between them.

  “Does he do this every night?”

  “Yes, he likes to make sure we’re fed before he makes his own plate.”

  “Layla, would you like—”

  “No, I can make my own, but…thanks.”

  “Not a problem, but you go first.” Camden motioned to the serving platters and bowls on the island.

  “Mind if I ask a question?”

  “I’m an open book, except for my past cases, those I don’t talk about.”

  “Wouldn’t ask about your work. Does your family know about my sons?”

  “My parents aren’t accepting even though I’ve been out longer than your sons have been alive.”

  “Then what brought you to Powers?”

  They darted their glances at their mama and Camden.

  “Boys, eat, you don’t have to wait.”

  Camden didn’t like the thought of them being hungry or tired. He wondered what their mama thought about Camden and the way he treated them. It couldn’t be faulted. The man hadn’t done anything but take care of them, even when they didn’t know he was. After they’d started dating, they heard the stories about what Camden did before he’d showed his interest.

  “I came here to stop my cousin and his crew from being taken out by the old Sheriff. He was racist and homophobic. After he was taken out, I went home. Back to my job. One night Peaches showed up and told me I was taking the Sheriff’s job, and she wasn’t taking no for an answer.”

  “I always did love Peaches,” Layla said as she finished filling her plate and carried it to the table.

  “At first, I did say no, but then I thought about it. A new life. Probably simpler with a chance at something different.”

  “Did Eric and Ellison play a part in your decision?”

  Camden filled
his glass with iced tea and then took his seat with his plate.

  “Maybe unconsciously. I swore I was too old for them, but the longer I was around them—” Camden looked at them. “The less I wanted to resist. I still don’t understand what they see in me, but I’m lucky to have them. Please, eat.”

  “I didn’t know if you—”

  “We don’t,” Camden and they answered together.

  “What are you doing for the holidays? It’s coming up quick.”

  “I thought if they wanted they could decorate the house, but I planned on spending it with them. Still got a few months to plan though. Last year I had all the crews out here. My place is the only one big enough for all of us. You’re invited. You were on a trip I think last year.”

  “I’m always on trips. Busy keeps me from thinking too much. Me and their father didn’t have very many holidays together. I tend to like to spend the holidays alone since my kids found a family to spend it with.”

  “Well, like I said, you’re invited.”

  “Thanks, I’ll think about it.”

  “No pressure. I think Powers has the largest number of atheists for a town this size. We don’t do much but eat and hang out. Presents for the kids at Christmas.”

  “Do you think about kids?”

  “I used to.”

  “Mama.” Saint glared at her.

  “I was just asking.”

  “It’s fine, baby. I don’t mind the questions. I’m forty-five. I think my having a family days’ passed a long time ago.”

  He studied Camden again as they silently seemed to agree to start eating. The man’s mood had changed, and he wasn’t as relaxed as he’d been. They’d never brought up the kids conversation. It wasn’t that they didn’t want kids, Saint had always talked about having maybe one if they ever met someone who’d agree to it. He wondered if Camden had given up the thought of a family at the same time he’d decided relationships didn’t mesh with his line of work.