Page 31 of Breathtaking

“The easiest thing to do would be to call him. But if that’s not an option, I’d start here.”

I pull her computer onto my lap and run a finger over the screen.

Looks like I’m finally going to West End.

* * *

Walking into the bar is like walking into one of Maddox’s stories. He talked about this place so often and in such detail, I feel like I’ve been here a hundred times before. Edison bulbs are strung from the ceiling, and beautiful old, repurposed wood gives the place a chic, warm vibe. It’s cool without trying, and I love it. It’s also packed for barely noon. Even if my body hasn’t acclimated to the time and thinks it should be closer to dinner than lunch.

Waitresses walk by, busy with trays of food that smell phenomenal, and my stomach growls. Shoot. When was the last time I ate?

A plate of fries passes by, and my mouth waters.

Ohh... I need some of them.

Shoot.

Focus, Lennon.

Maria hangs back, giving me space and the small semblance of privacy I asked for as I make my way to the bar and an unfortunately familiar face.

“Well, well, well,” the youngest Beneventi brother grins when he sees me. “Look who decided to grace the common folk with her royal presence.”

I cross my arms over my chest and glare. “I’m sorry... Have I done something to offend you or are you just naturally an asshole?”

He blows me off and fills two pints of beer while I wait for an answer, with my frustration growing incrementally by the minute until he turns my way again. “Did you want a drink, princess?”

I shake my head. “Is Maddox here?”

“Nope.” The jerk seems really happy about that answer too, and I don’t have the energy to overanalyze that little nugget.

“Could you please tell me where I can find him?” I ask as sweetly as possible, but Lucky Beneventi isn’t impressed, and I’m losing my patience.

“Why should I? The last time he saw you, you bailed. In our world, that makes you worthless.”

Well hell.

Little Beneventi just called me worthless.

I’ve been called quite a few things in my life, but that’s a new one.

I narrow my eyes, attempting to hold my temper at bay. “If I remember correctly, you’d just informed me that your brother had slept with my cousin.”

Even hearing myself say those words still stings.

“Were you two dating?”

“Excuse me?” I bristle, and I immediately see Lucky perk up.

He likes the fight.

Of course he does. He’s Maddox’s brother.

Ugh...

“You and Maddox. Were you dating? Exclusive? In a relationship?” he rattles his questions in quick succession. “Did he break a promise by fucking your cousin?”

“Maybe you should ask your brother that if you really want to know,” I counter. “In the meantime, how about you tell me how to find him.”

---