Page 1 of King

PROLOGUE

It’s like Dejavu.

I stand outside her club and look up at the sign. The only difference is tonight it’s pouring rain. It’s almost as if the universe knows the mood I’ve been stuck in since she left.

When I woke up in Germany without my leg, she was like my avenging angel. Asking all the questions, I couldn’t. Helping to arrange my care in the States. She stuck by me until I finally pushed her away.

All because I felt unworthy.

She was a Queen even then, and I was nowhere near the level of matching her. I’m ready now, and hopefully, I’m not too late. I’ve been waiting for them to open, but there still aren’t any lights on.

I frown and walk around the back into the alley and see the back door propped open. Maybe they’re running late. Although, if memory serves, this place was a hot spot last time we were here.

“Excuse me?” The man smoking a cigarette next to the door jumps.

“Sorry, I was just wondering when you would be open?” The guy stomps out the smoke and walks into the street light so I can see him.

“Bruno?” I ask, and he nods.

“The Pearly Gates closed down two months ago.” He whispers, making me frown.

“Why?” I glance around, seeing all the other clubs in the downtown LA area thriving.

“Gianna,” He choked, and I stepped closer to him.

“WHAT?” I growl, and he shakes his head.

“She’s gone missing.” I stumble back and throw my hand out to catch myself on the brick wall.

“You’re him, aren’t you? Her King.” I nod and hold my chest.

“Then we have time. Come, I will show you.” I follow him into the empty club and straight to her office.

When the door opens, my senses are overwhelmed with her. Pictures, smells, memories. Bruno goes to sit at her desk but stops at the look on my face.

“Apologies,” He steps out of my way, and I sit in her chair.

“I’ve been paying the girls from a slush fund, but it’s almost dry. I stopped all the deliveries and placed our accounts on hold. She owns the building, and taxes are paid until next year. I didn’t know what else to do.” Bruno succumbs to the tears he’s been holding back.

I look at the papers on her desk.

Bruno collects himself and points at a pile of open envelopes stacked neatly in a basket. I pick one up, open it, and read the single line written on it.

Your time is up.

- IB

I pull out my phone, snap a photo, and text it to Abel.

“Bruno, do we have the supplies needed to reopen?” I look around and know in my bones Gianna would be furious that her business was suffering.

Not for the money but for her girls. They depended on a safe place to work and have families to feed.

“For a week at least. I can get the supplies coming back in.” I nod.

“Call the girls and tell them we’re opening tomorrow night.” My phone rings as he leaves to do as I ordered.

“IB, Ignacio Baez?” He yawns through the phone.

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