Page 9 of His Prize

“You mean, literal teeth?”

“No. It’s just a saying.”

“It wasn’t a saying with your uncle.”

My eye twitched. “Well, it’s a saying with me. I need someone who’s going to listen first and ask questions later. And it’s clear to me that Bruno out there isn’t willing to do that.”

“So, we’re on a first-name basis because…?”

“Because, at least for now, I’d like you to be my personal bodyguard. Think you can do that?”

She smiled. “I can definitely do that, Miss Bonnie.”

“Wonderful. Now, stand and keep watch with Bruno outside. I’ll call you if I need anything.”

“Yes, Miss Bonnie.”

And when I sat back down at my uncle’s desk, I felt a bit more accomplished than when I had stepped foot into this place a few hours ago.

Which made me feel that I might actually be able to pull this off.

“All right, time to get started,” I breathed.

Then I pulled out the first drawer of paperwork to sift through.

4

Bonnie

“Ash?”

The study door opened. “Yes, Miss Bonnie?”

I looked up from the files. “I’m ready to head out. Could you walk me to the car? It’s waiting out front.”

“Yes, Miss Bonnie.”

I heard Bruno scoff to himself outside, and I committed that moment to memory. Not that I’d punish him for it. Oh, no, no. But, I would remind him of it. Once my uncle went away for good and he got a small demotion, I’d remind him of this moment—of the moment when he had chosen to follow an ex-Don instead of his current Donne. Then, I’d give him a chance to work his way back up the ladder, like any sensible boss would do.

I wouldn't shoot him in the middle of the foyer.

Like I’d known my uncle to do.

I slid some file folders into my purse before I stood. I took one last look around the study and drew in another big whiff of air before heading through the open door. Ash escorted me to the Town Car waiting for me, and I saw my aunt in the window, holding Brianna close to her side while the two of them scolded me as I slipped into the car.

“Miss Bonnie?”

“Yes, Ash?”

“Would you like me to accompany you back to your place?”

I shook my head. “I’ll be fine. My driver is trained in evasion tactics as well as self-defense. We’ll be okay until we get back to Israel’s.”

“Well, if you ever need me, I slipped my card into your purse.”

I paused. “You did?”

She grinned. “Drive safely, Miss Bonnie.”

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