Page 27 of Revenge

“Aye,” Ray says.

“Everyone has their orders. Call if anything is out of the norm. For tonight enjoy yourselves. Drinks are on the house.” All three men leave, and I breathe easier knowing I have their loyalty.

“It’s as good a plan as any,” Oliver says.

“I thought so. We just need one crack to have the upper hand.”

“Strategy and patience will be the key to our success. Until we learn exactly what Cillian and our father’s plan is, we need to lay low. You also have an image to maintain with Manarch Industries.” His words make me think of Ava. I built Manarch Industries for my future, but after having her in my life, I wanted it with her.

“Oliver, I meant to ask. Where did you assign Marco? I want him at Manarch Industries.” I hadn’t given it much thought to Marco until earlier today when my head of security approached me about needing more men with Manarch Industries going public.

“Honestly, I don’t know where he is. He felt responsible for not knowing where Ava went after he dropped her off. He wanted to move on to other opportunities. I didn’t know you wanted to keep him.”

“Fair enough. Reach out. I would like to offer him a new job.”

“I’ll keep you posted.”

“Then it’s settled. Let’s get a drink. It’s been a long day.”

Chapter Sixteen

Ava

“Good, you’re still here,” Maddie says.

“For five more minutes,” I tease.

“I need a favor.”

“Your favors tend to be time-consuming.”

“I wouldn’t ask if I had another alternative.”

“What did you do?” I ask as I wipe the counter down.

“My babysitter just called. My kid is throwing up. Can you close for me?” I eye her. “Pretty please? I’ll make you that cake you like.”

“That’s not fair. You know I’m a sucker for cake, especially your cake.” She pulls me in for a hug, knowing I have already agreed. How could I say no?

“You’re getting big.”

My belly is getting in the way of everything.

“This little human inside me wants the world to know it’s inside my belly and coming.” I rub my belly.

“Enjoy it. They grow so fast. Thank you for helping me out. You won’t need to do anything but close and lock the door. I’ve taken care of everything else.”

“You’re lucky it’s only another hour. I want my payment on Friday.” We laugh.

“I’ll bring the cake. You bring your appetite.”

I love working here, and everyone has been amazing. It’s about the only silver lining besides my baby. Hopefully, in a week or so, I’ll know the sex of the baby, I can’t wait to hold him or her. I try to stay busy so time goes faster, but no such luck. It’s like time has slowed down. My back is aching, and my feet are swollen. I rearrange merchandise, willing time to move faster. Finally, I’m excited when the clock tells me closing is in less than five minutes. My hope is no more customers will come in. No such luck. The door chimes and I look up.

“Welcome to…” I stop when I meet Oliver’s eyes. “What are you doing here?” I look past him, hoping Viktor isn’t with him.

“Don’t worry. I’m alone.” He walks toward me, staring at my growing belly. “Can we talk?”

“I don’t think it’s a good idea. Besides, I’m working.”

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