Page 76 of A Raven Revived

“You are going to stand by my side while I say my vows, right?”

“I would be honored to.” He sipped on his brandy. “I hope you’ll still find time to have a drink with me occasionally with all of your newfound responsibilities.”

“I may be gaining new friends and responsibilities, but that doesn’t make our friendship any less important, Anderson. You’ve been with me through all of it, even when everyone else thought I was crazy for continuing to look for her.”

“Not that I was really any help, but I’m glad it all worked out in the end. Besides, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed our adventures.”

Fitz raised his glass. “May there be many more of them!”

When Fitz approached the back entrance of The Raven’s Den, he was still a little surprised the large bouncer opened the door for him without even having to say a word.

“I should probably know all of your names by now. Especially those of you who came to Auburn Ridge with us. Lord knows I owe you all a debt. My name is Fitz.” He held out his hand.

“Donoghue.” The large man shook his hand and gave him a nod.

Fitz made his way down the dimly lit corridor, feeling like he should have some kind of escort. His heartbeat escalated as he opened the door that led to the stairs, as if he was going somewhere out of bounds. Was he really going to be a partner in this place? He swallowed before climbing the steps. Giles came around the corner and they met halfway.

“Good evening,” he said jovially. He shook Fitz’s hand. “I know you and I haven’t spent much time together yet, but I’m glad you’ll be joining our team.”

“Thank you. I’m somehow both thrilled and terrified.”

Giles laughed. “I know the feeling well. Selfishly, I’m just happy that I’ll no longer be the new guy. But don’t worry, the hazing isn’t too brutal.”

“Giles.” Ash appeared at the top of the stairs. “Don’t scare the poor man off before he’s even gotten started.”

Giles chuckled. He clapped Fitz on the shoulder and trotted the rest of the way down the stairs.

“Ignore him. He likes to stir up a bit of chaos.” Ash shook his head. He walked down a hallway and Fitz followed. “I’m glad you made it.” He gestured for Fitz to precede him through a door to a room he hadn’t been in before. It was dark within, but as he moved further inside, it quickly became apparent what this room was. It was a balcony that overlooked the gaming floor, and it was marvelous. He could see everything and everyone in exquisite detail.

“I had wondered how you’d been so aware of my interest in the place.” He chuckled. “I thought I was being so careful not to draw attention to myself. Little did I know, you were up here the whole time, watching my every move.”

Ash nodded. “That’s why it’s here.”

His gaze traveled over every person, but then it landed on one Lady Raven in particular.

“You let her dance tonight?”

“What?” Ash strode to look over the edge. “Christ.” He sighed. “I’m sorry, Fitz. I didn’t even realize she was down there.”

“Oh, I’m not upset about it.” He watched in awe and his heart fluttered. “Look at her. She’s incredible.”

Ash nodded, a proud smile growing on his face. “That she is.”

“I never thought I’d see this. Do you mind if I watch for a bit?”

“I don’t think there’s any harm in it. I wanted to talk about her, anyway.”

Fitz nodded, only half listening, entranced by the vision of Daisy moving in synchrony with the other ladies.

“You’re going to need to have some security for her.”

Fitz reluctantly tore his eyes away from her so he could concentrate on what Ash was saying. “I suppose I am going to have to leave her alone eventually if I’m to start working here.”

“We’ll make sure she’s in good hands. As the owners of this place, we have to take certain precautions. All of our wives have around the clock protection when we’re not with them. McKinnon seems to have a bit of a soft spot for her.” Ash sighed. “He’s the head of our security, and one of our best, so I hate to lose him, but I think he's a good choice.”

“And what does McKinnon think of that?”

“I haven’t asked him. He is unwaveringly loyal, though, and will do whatever we ask him to.”

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