Page 24 of Ride Me

“I couldn’t even if I wanted to,” she joked weakly. “They think I can help him, Ben. Do you? Is that what you felt when you met me?”

She didn’t have to explain. “I know it. I don’t know how, but—”

“You know who?”

He dipped his head in acknowledgment. “Look, you’re my friend now. I’m invested, and I don’t want to see you hurt. So whatever you decide about what happens next, you won’t be alone. That’s a promise.”

Was that why he’d been so insistent on being included? Was he trying to protect her too?

He started down the steps but turned back, his hand reaching into his pocket. “I almost forgot. Mambo Toussaint wanted you to have this. She said to sleep with it beneath your pillow if you need more answers from the powers that be.”

She took the small pouch and clutched it tight. “Thank you, Ben. For everything.”

“My pleasure, darlin’.”

Allegra waited for him to leave before turning to unlock the door to her apartment.

The phone was ringing.

“Damn it.” She slammed the door shut, trying to race for it and almost falling over before she got to the phone on the other side of the room. “Hello?”

“Did he fuck you?”

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