Page 5 of His Dark Cravings

"Miss Fields," he eventually says, his voice deep and commanding. "I assume you're here regarding your brother's debt."

Wait, how do they know who I am already? The guard knew my name, and so does Xavier, just by looking at me. Did Talon already tell him I was coming?

I push aside my confusion and nod. "Yes, I am. I'll do whatever it takes to get him out of here." My voice is steady despite my nerves. "We can agree to some kind of payment plan, or maybe he can work here?"

A slight smile plays at the corners of Xavier's mouth, like he's decided on something, but his eyes remain cold. "I'm sure we'll figure something out, Miss Fields. We can discuss the details tomorrow. For now, consider your brother's debt suspended for now."

I frown, unsure of his game. "What do you mean?"

Xavier takes a step closer, his eyes holding mine. "I'll release your brother for now, but I expect you to meet me here tomorrow afternoon. We'll discuss the terms of his debt then."

I swallow, my throat dry. "And if I don't agree to your terms?"

His eyes glitter dangerously. "Then I'm afraid your brother will be in a great deal of trouble. And I suspect you wouldn't want that, would you?"

The full weight of his words sinks in. Talon's freedom hangs in the balance, and I know I have no choice but to agree. But why did I have to come down here in the first place?

I square my shoulders. "Of course not. I-I'm sure we can work something out."

Xavier's eyes narrow slightly, as if he's considering my words. "Indeed we shall, Miss Fields. I look forward to our discussion."

He gives a slight bow, dismissing me, and I turn to leave. I feel his eyes on me as I walk away, and I can't shake the sense of being sized up, judged in some way.

I find the guard waiting for me outside the door, and he leads me back through the casino to where Talon is being held. My brother is pacing the room when I enter, his face pale and drawn. He looks up, his eyes widening when he sees me.

"Everly?" He rushes forward, his arms wrapping around me in a tight embrace. "Thank God you're here. I was so worried."

I return his hug, my heart softening despite my frustration with his situation. "It's okay, Talon. I've taken care of it. We can go."

Relief washes over his face, and he grabs his jacket, following me out of the room. We make our way through the casino, the guard trailing silently behind us. As we reach the entrance, Xavier stops us in our tracks.

"Miss Fields," he calls out, his voice carrying across the room.

I turn, my heart sinking as I see him striding toward us. What now?

"A moment, if you please." He reaches us, his eyes settling on Talon. "Your sister has agreed to meet with me tomorrow to discuss the terms of your debt. Until then, you are free to go."

Talon's eyes dart between Xavier and me, his expression a mix of relief and apprehension. "Thank you," he mumbles, his voice hoarse.

Xavier gives a slight nod, his eyes never leaving Talon's face. "Be sure to thank your sister, not me. Our business is not yet concluded."

I swallow as I sense the unspoken threat in his words. "We'll be in touch," I say, and we turn to leave.

As we walk out of the casino, Talon at my side, I can't shake the feeling of Xavier's eyes on my back. It unnerves me, and I quicken my pace, eager to put some distance between us.

"Everly, wait," Talon calls out, his voice urgent. "We need to talk."

I stop, turning to face him. "What is it?"

His eyes flick around nervously, as if worried someone might overhear. "Not here. Let's go somewhere private."

I hesitate, my instincts on alert. "Where?"

He bites his lip, his eyes flicking to the ground. "My apartment."

I consider his request, my protective instincts warring with my better judgment. "Fine," I eventually agree. "But we need to hurry. I want to put as much distance between us and this place as possible."

Talon nods, his eyes filled with gratitude, and we start walking toward his apartment. The streets are busy, and I feel a sense of relief as we blend into the crowd.

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