Page 64 of Ruin

When I reached Mimi’s door, I knocked, and Cowboy called, “Who is it?”

“Ruin.”

I heard the door unlock before Cowboy swung it open. I stepped in, my gaze settling on Mimi. “What happened?” she asked. “You’ve got cuts on you.”

“I’m fine. That’s nothin’. All I know is that Jiro made a deal with a rival, and it didn’t work out the way they expected it. Everyone’s safe though.”

She let out a shaky breath. “Good.” She shook her head. “Goddamn Jiro.”

“Who’s he?” Cowboy asked. I told him that and what else Jiro had been doing and saying.

Cowboy snarled, “Fuckin’ cunt.”

“Exactly.” I nodded.

“Are you okay?” Mimi asked me.

I moved over to the couch in her room and sank down onto it. Clasping my hands in front of me, I rested my elbows on my knees. “Yeah, fine.”

“Is that why you look worried and yet pissed?” she questioned.

“It’s nothin’, sweetheart.”

“Bull, it’s my brother. If he’s pushed you away, it’s because the scene would have worried him. I’m sure whatever he’s done or said, he didn’t mean it.”

“I know.” And I did, but… yeah, it fucking hurt he didn’t want me at his side after what just happened. I stood. “I’m gonna get in another shower. Probably still got glass and shit all over me.” I moved to the door.

“You can stay a while if you want,” Cowboy offered.

“I’m good, brother. Thanks, though.” I didn’t go to Taro’s room. I still had clothes in mine, so I headed there, grabbed some new gear, and showered, hoping it’d wash away the depressing thoughts.

It didn’t work.

About an hour later, a knock sounded on the door. “Yeah?” I called, standing from the bed.

It opened, and Taro stepped through. I wasn’t the only one who’d showered. He closed the door and stepped further into the room.

“Jiro been dealt with?” I asked.

“Yes. He and his sons. The rest of his family have been left with a choice—to leave or stay and follow my rules. They’ll be watched closely though.”

I nodded, crossing my arms over my chest. I didn’t like the distance between us. Why hadn’t he walked right over to me?

“I’m sorry for the way I acted before,” he started, and my gut tingled in hope.

“Yeah?” I asked since he wasn’t offering up any more.

“Yes.” He went to the windows and stared out.

“I didn’t like being pushed away, Taro,” I told him honestly. “Not sure if you were trying to protect me from things, but I need you to know I can take anythin’. I wouldn’t have been out there at your side takin’ lives if I couldn’t.”

He dropped his head. “I know.”

“Then what is this? The distance?”

His sad eyes connected with mine. “I need you to take Mimi back to Ballarat.”

My brows shot high. “Why?” I demanded.

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