Page 150 of The Sweetest Devotion

“We’ll see,” Jadyn said, non-committal. “So, what about you? What’s it like running a casino?”

Cain regarded my father before turning back to Jadyn. “It’s…an adjustment. The whole thing sorta just fell into my lap when my father passed.”

“Sounds overwhelming,” Jadyn noted.

Cain didn’t disagree. “It was. I kept most of James’s team since they know Cartier by hand, and I can say since working with Damon and Phil, I’ve learned a few pointers as well.”

My father was touched by that remark as he smiled and ate some of his pasta.

Growing up, he had never been the type of man who stressed about having aboy. He was comfortable and happy to have me as a daughter. In the weeks since the engagement, it was almost as if he’d adjusted to the idea of having a son as well. Especially one willing to learn the trade.

“So.” Jadyn rested her chin on her fist as she peered at Cain intently. “What made you want to marry Kennedy?”

I smirked as I caught my mother coughing on her wine.

Cain wasn’t fazed. “I saw her at a charity event and she just held the whole room’s attention. She radiated grace, light, humility—she had everything I’d ever dreamed of in a woman.”

“And you just had to have her?” Jadyn commented, her genuine interest showing.

Cain glanced my way. “So long as she’s willing to have me.”

It was a “cute” comment, one earning anawwfrom Irene and even Jadyn, though I was sure at least Jay was faking.

As expected, I lit up at Cain’s words and played my part.

Dinner went on and I went on autopilot, smiling when needed, laughing when others did, and appearing interested even though my mind was miles away.

While I’d only gotten a portion of the shrimp paesano, I noticed Cain had a little of everything. He wasn’t a picky eater I could see as he seemed to enjoy it all without complaint. It was while watching him try some of the bruschetta and smile to himself that it dawned on me. At some point, he hadstarved. I suddenly recollected all of the meals we’d shared together and I could see a pattern. He ate with appreciation and he was always gracious to our server. He was his most humane when eating, because it was a luxury he hadn’t always had.

My appetite slipped away as the idea settled into my mind.

Before he was a villain, Cain Carter had been a victim, too.

When dinner was over, I hugged Jadyn close, wishing to take some of her confidence with me.

“Take care,” she told me. Her vision slid to Cain and her demeanor changed as the smile slipped from her face. “Let’s cut the bullshit since her folks ain’t around. This isn’t a cute little romance—weallknow that. You got my girl wrapped up in whatever the hell you’re doin’ with her dad and that’s wack. She may feel trapped enough to go along with it, but just know…” Jadyn took a step closer to Cain, holding her finger out as she sized him up. “…you fuck with her, you’re fuckin’ with me, and I’m thewrongone.”

Cain didn’t crack a smile or try to find the humor in her threat. He simply nodded, staring Jadyn in her eyes. “I respect that.” His attention flashed to me. “It’s not my intention to ever harm Kennedy. If it takes forever, I’ll be here to show her I’m not going to hurt her.”

Jadyn wasn’t impressed.Good. “Why won’t you let her go and go about your business with Damon?”

“What can I say, when I know what I want, I go after it.” Cain gave a small shrug.

Jadyn snorted. “No reciprocity at all, huh?”

I took it as my cue to cut in. I loved Jadyn down for coming to my defense, but it was hopeless. At least, it felt that way. “Jay… I can handle this, trust me.”

My best friend sighed, coming and wrapping me in a tight hug and rocking me for a moment. “I know, but you shouldn’t have to.”

Jadyn let me go and faced Cain once more. “I mean it.”

Cain stood beside me. “I know you do.” He eyed Vino. “Walk her to her car.”

Jadyn shook her head. “That won’t be necessary.”

Vino went ahead and opened the front door. “I insist.”

“Who said chivalry was dead?” Jadyn managed to joke as she slid past Vino and walked out to the front step. He joined her outside before shutting the door behind them.

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