Page 45 of King

“We’re going to explain everything to you as soon as you’re out of here,” King said, his voice calm but firm. “But not right now. Just know that Amara is fine, and you’re both safe.”

For a moment, Joey didn’t look convinced. His frown deepened, hesitation flickering across his face. “Promise?” He turned his gaze first to Amara, then back to King. “Dad kept a lot from me, and it’s not cool. I want to know what’s going on.”

“I said it,” King replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. “And when I say something, I mean it.”

Joey studied him, searching for any sign of dishonesty. Then, finally, he nodded, his exhaustion winning out. His eyes fluttered shut, but just before sleep claimed him, a slow, mischievous smile tugged at his lips. “Just know… I remember everything you and Jake taught me about fighting. I’d hate to kick your butt.”

King huffed a quiet laugh, shaking his head. Amara exhaled, relief and unease mixing inside her. Joey might be sleeping, but the questions weren’t going away. And soon, she’d have to find a way to give him the answers he deserved.

Amara stretched, rolling the tension from her shoulders as her phone buzzed in her pocket. The sound was sharp in the quiet room. Slipping it out, she glanced at the screen, her stomach twisting when she recognized the number from the funeral home.

A heavy breath escaped her as she pushed to her feet, careful not to disturb Joey. She moved toward the door, each step feeling heavier than the last. She wasn’t sure she was ready for this conversation, but ready or not, it was happening. Steeling herself, she stepped into the hallway and answered, bracing for the weight of what came next.

CHAPTER 22

King watched her go, his eyes tracking every movement. He knew exactly who was calling, and the pain etched across her face made his chest tighten. He walked to the door and leaned against the doorframe. Crossing his arms, his gaze never leaving her. Their eyes met for a brief second, and he wished more than anything that he could take away the grief radiating from her. But she had to face this, and all he could do was be there when she did.

The sound of heavy footsteps echoed down the hall, snapping King’s attention to the source. His muscles tensed, ready for anything, until Kane rounded the corner. King let out a slow breath and relaxed slightly.

Kane gave Amara a slight nod as he passed her, then turned his attention to King. “What’s up?”

King didn’t shift from the doorway, unwilling to take his eyes off Amara for too long. “How’s the kid?” Kane asked, glancing in at Joey before looking back at him.

“He’s good,” King replied, though his frown deepened. “But he’s asking questions. Have you found anything out?”

“That’s why I’m here,” Kane said, leaning against the wall opposite him. “I messaged the woman who brought Joey to the ER. She responded. I told her to meet me here.”

King’s jaw tightened. He didn’t like that. “Why here?”

“Because she’s being followed,” Kane said, his expression grim. “Jinx did some digging, and the guy at the pub watching her is a private investigator.”

King swore under his breath, his mind racing.

Kane nodded. “I figured here, no one would have eyes on us. And this way, you can ask her any questions you need to without interference.”

King didn’t respond immediately, his gaze flickering back to Amara. He had too many questions, too many pieces of the puzzle that didn’t fit. But one thing was clear: whatever trouble Joey’s father had been involved in, it hadn’t died with him. This woman knew something; he felt it in his bones.

“You think she’ll show up?” King asked, his eyebrow cocked.

“She was warned that if she didn’t show up, I would find her,” Kane said with a smirk. “She’ll show. She’s afraid of something. She asked about the kid.”

“You don’t think she was involved?” King asked trusting Kane’s instincts since he himself hadn’t met this woman yet.

“Oh, she’s somehow involved, but do I think she hurt Joey or killed his dad? No, I don’t believe that," Kane answered, glancing at his watch.

“Joey said he was hit by a car.” King let Kane in on that information.

“What?” Kane’s features turned hard as he glared at King. “You fucking serious?”

“Unfortunately, I am.” King hissed. “And I will find whoever was behind that wheel even if it takes me a lifetime.”

A man in scrubs stopped beside Amara. Frowning, King pushed himself away from the wall and walked in that direction.

“Ms. Travin?” The man said when Amara hung up the phone.

“Yes,” Amara frowned, quickly glancing over her shoulder to see King walking toward them. The relief on her face told King so much. She was afraid and looked toward him for protection, and his protective instincts went into overdrive.

“I’m Dr. Winston.” He introduced himself, sticking his hand out. “I was coming to see how Joey was doing.”

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