Page 65 of Grim

“Thank you, Yen.”

Yen’s company said their goodbyes and left for a meeting. That left Yen and me. He ordered us another drink.

“I have a confession.” He smiled as he sipped his Manhattan. “The men you were just speaking with aren’t just old friends of mine. They are my soon-to-be associates.”

“Oh?”

“We’re merging companies.”

“Congratulations.”

“I think you just signed them to stay here as well.” He chuckled. “You have something, Kenna. You’re not just smart, you have finesse. There’s a line between schmoozing someone and winning someone over because you’re genuine.”

“I’m flattered, thank you.”

“Kenna, I think you’re amazing at what you do, and I think you’d be perfect for the new hotel I’m building in Hong Kong. I’d like to have you come work for me.”

“Oh.” I didn’t see that coming.

“I know you have a good thing going on here, and there’s no hurry to answer me, but it’s something I’d like you to consider. I’ll certainly make it worth your while.” At a nod, one of his men approached and leaned over to hand Yen a file. “Look this over, see if there’s anything you’d like to change or add, and I’ll make it happen.”

“I will.” I slid the folder close and rested my hand on it. I couldn’t think of anything else to say.

“Now, I want to go swim off the extra pounds I likely just consumed. Instead of accompanying me, why don’t you take the evening off, and if anyone is looking for you, I’ll cover.” He patted my arm. “You’re young, pretty, and single, so go live it up tonight, and tell me all about it tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Yen.” I was lost for words. “That’s very thoughtful. I’ll certainly think about your generous offer.” Also, his very considerate suggestion that I take the evening for myself.

I felt my phone vibrate in my purse and pulled it free.

Minnie: Room six, second floor, you know where. Be relaxed and wear pink.

I opened the calendar for the spa and booked myself a spot. Why not?

Kenna: Count me in.

Two hours in, and my muscles were relaxed, my skin was soft as silk, and now I was draped in a thick layer of aloe while I soaked in a river of warm water. This treatment was meant to soothe not only your skin but your mind. The room looked like something from Star Trek, and when you closed your eyes you felt you were transported somewhere else. That was until I heard someone come in and sit down.

“Question.” I lifted the cucumber peel and found Knox with his arms folded and a knowing smirk on his face. “What, exactly, did I walk in on this morning?”

“Fought off that hangover, did you?”

“Hair of the dog, always does the trick.”

“I’m sure your liver loves you.”

“So,” he grinned again, “about how you were on your knees.”

“Maybe that’s a question for Grim.”

“Or maybe it’s for you. Because last I heard, you drive him to the brink of murder, and the next I see you—with my own eyes, by the way—on your knees about to pleasure my dear older brother. What about this situation did I miss?”

“Maybe we should talk about how you’re screwing my little sister?”

“That’s a casual thing, and I’d be more than willing to share the details of what your sister likes.”

“Out.” I pointed and dropped the cucumber back in place.

“I know what I saw, Kenna.” His voice disappeared as he left the room.

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