Page 174 of Delicate Storm

Easton’s saying goodbye when my phone buzzes with a text from Christian, and as I read the message, I audibly gasp, drawing his attention.

The A-hole: Is this what you’ve been hiding? Call me. Now

Breaking News: Billionaire twins and owners of Mikkleson Equity, Gabriel and Angus Mikkleson, were arrested in New York this morning on suspicion of extortion. We’ll keep you updated as the story develops.

“What the f—?” My wide eyes lift to Easton’s to find him watching me in concern.

“What’s wrong?”

“Christian’s dad was A.R.R.E.S.T.E.D.” I spell out arrested so that Isaac doesn’t ask questions, but he does anyway.

“What’s that mean?” he says, his eyes bouncing between mine and Easton’s.

“It’s something for adults, Buddy,” Easton says, giving him a smile. “Have you finished breakfast?”

“Yes, can I go and play?”

“Of course.”

Easton waits until Isaac’s out of the room before turning my way. “How do you know?”

I show him my message and a growl rumbles in the back of his throat. “Want me to stay while you call the dick?”

“No.” I laugh, pulling him into a hug. “You have to go. He’s harmless.”

“He has the power to hurt you, so he’s anything but harmless. I’ve got a few minutes. Call him.”

“East—”

“Please.”

“Okay. But I don’t want you to be late.”

“I won’t be.” He kisses my head and sits down beside me, pulling his phone from his pocket. “Put it on speaker.” He opens a message to me and holds his finger over the record button, as though Christian’s going to say something incriminating. While I agree that he’s not the greatest example of a decent human, when it comes to this, I’m still certain he’s innocent.

Easton nods when he’s ready, and I smile at his protectiveness as I press call.

I’m lost in thought while it’s ringing, until Easton’s eyes shoot to mine and he reaches for my hand. “When you’re done, you should call your dad.”

“Wh—”

“Dammit, Paige,” Christian answers, stopping me from questioning Easton. “Was that you? Is that what you knew?”

He’s straight to the point and I’m grateful. Now is not the time for small talk.

“Yes.”

“Then why the hell didn’t you tell me?”

“Uh… Like I said, I was trying to protect you.”

“Why?” he snaps and Easton’s fists clench.

“Because, A-hole, despite what you believe about me, I do have a heart. I just never wanted to give it to you.”

“A-hole. What’s that about?”

“This is a little ears warning. I’m around someone who doesn’t need to hear your potty mouth.”

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