Page 105 of Prince Charming

“She’s called Marianna. And it’s because of her why I needed to talk to you.”

“She’s on the up and up?”

“She’s not a sleeper cell for theBratva, if that’s what you’re asking.”

The question was innocent and typical of Lawless.

Had he been on the outside, he would have done an in-depth search on Marianna.

Knowing this, it didn’t stop the bite to Tag’s voice.

He heard Lawless’ corroded chuckle. “That’s good. So what can I do for your woman?”

In a few sentences, Tag laid it out what he needed and why.

“It’s a tall order, Tag.”

“I know, but is it doable?”

“Anything is possible if you have the right reach. Fortunately, orunfortunatelyfor you, depending how you look at it, I know a guy who can get what you need.” Lawless added. “It’s gonna cost you. And I don’t only mean money.”

“What will he expect?”

“With Jay Benz, you never fucking know until you know. So, be sure this is what you really want to do, because the moment you sign your name in blood to him, he’s got you by the balls.”

“He sounds a barrel of laughs. How do you know this guy again?”

“You could say I was his protégé back in the day.”

“Holy fuck, he taught you how to be an evil shit?” Laughed Tag.

“Nah, I was already that, but he did hone my skills. He’ll be suspicious at first, the man doesn’t trust anyone. Mention my name, that should get you a meeting. The rest is down to you.”

Tag only had a moment to thank Lawless when he heard a muffled voice in the background. “Let’s go, Penn, you’ve had long enough.”

“Keep your panties on.” And then to Tag he said, “gotta go, Champ, he’s a nervous shit. Good luck on Saturday. Try not to get dead.”

Tag chuckled. “Marianna said the same thing, no one has faith in my fists.”

“Course we do. I’ve laid ten grand down on you, so don’t fucking lose.”

Even from prison, Lawless could achieve anything, even putting down a bet.

Lawless had been right.

Tag used the number and got through to a watchdog or secretary, whoever the fella answered Jay Benz’s phone was. He hung up when Tag asked for a meeting. Ringing back again, it only took, “Lawless vouches for me.”

They set up a meeting for fight night.

If all went right, things should happen soon.

Intent on finding his little dancer, he came up short out on the gym floor when he saw a familiar blonde. Gritting his back teeth, he stalked up to Sofia. She’d been plaguing him with calls until he blocked her number. With nothing to say to the woman, he didn’t hold grudges, but he didn’t want to be friendly either.

“Baby, it’s good to see you.” She beamed.

“Not your baby, Sofia. What are you doing here?”

“Can’t I come by to see you?”

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