Page 38 of Dust to Dust

“You were only being honest.”

“Even if I think you’re an asshole, I don’t think you’re capable of hurting people.”

“Do you know what it means to belong to an Irish clan?”

My stomach recoiled. “Like you dress up in bedsheets and hate on anyone who isn’t white?”

Quinn stared at me before a laugh burst from his lips. “Jaysus, Mary, and Joseph, I’m not talking about the bleedin’ KKK.”

“Thank God,” I murmured.

“In Ireland, a clan is like a gang. Here in America the closest comparison is the mafia.”

My hand flew to my mouth as I realized what Lenora and Mabry had been referencing. “You’re in the mafia?” I whispered.

“You don’t have to whisper. The club is swept every day to make sure the Feds or our enemies haven’t placed any bugs.”

Oh God. How could this be possible? I was working in a club owned by the Irish mafia.

“You’re in the mafia,” I said, this time as a statement and not a question.”

“Aye, my family is head of an Irish clan that includes not just Boston, but Belfast as well. My older brother, Callum, is the leader, and I’m the enforcer.”

“I need to sit down.” After Quinn motioned to the couch, I flopped down on the cool leather. “My boss is in the mafia.”

A wicked grin flashed on his face. “The only man to ever make you come is in the mafia.”

With that summation, I rose onto shaky legs and started across the floor. “Where are you going?” Quinn demanded.

I motioned to the liquor cart. “I need a drink.”

Chapter Eight: Quinn

With amusement, I watched Isla shakily pour a tumbler of whiskey. I would’ve wagered a hundred bucks that she’d never had a sip in her life. When she threw back a determined gulp, I held my breath.

Her eyes bulged before the amber liquid spewed from her lips. “Oh God.”

I snorted. “Not your taste?”

“It’s horrible.”

“Why am I not surprised, Little Dove?”

With a curious look, Isla pursed her lips at me. “Why do you keep calling me that?”

“Doves are birds of peace and innocence. Those are qualities you possess.”

She rolled her eyes. “I’d hardly call me dancing in a gentleman’s club innocent.”

“Compared to someone in my world, you are innocent.”

“I guess.” She tilted her head at me. “I suppose I could say you’re corrupting me.”

A growl came from low in my chest as the monster thought of all the ways I could corrupt her beautiful body. I knew I had to get away from her.

When Isla’s blue eyes widened, I said, “Stay here. I need to get cleaned up.”

“I can help you.”

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