Page 44 of Hot Stuff
“He didn’t.” Rafe’s jaw clenches. Then he turns to Mrs. Cantrell. “I think it’s time we pull the ace in our hand.”
“Yes. It appears so.”
“It’ll be fine. I’ll be with you every step of the way.”
I’m not sure what is happening here but these two seem to have a far deeper relationship than I’m aware off.
“Look, I’m not sure…” I glance at Cantrell’s wife.
“You can be candid. Laken is aware of her husband’s faults.Allof them.”
“Ah, well, um.”
“Walker, please, be honest with us. Think of this vehicle as a vault.”
“What I have doesn’t necessarily need to stay locked in here.”
“Okay. But before you start, let me assure you there will be no repercussions for you from the Knights. And I guarantee after you leave this car, the first thing I will do is contact our lawyers and have any paperwork required to terminate your contract done with a legal document saying the Knights give you permission to announce your retirement as you see fit.”
I glance at Rafe. I’ve never known Mrs. Cantrell to be involved in the running of the team. Rafe as GM has always been what his title says, the manager.
Except on the rare occasion that Cantrell himself got involved. Of course, unlike yesterday, those times Rafe was there to override or guide him.
“This information does not leave this vehicle until it is made public.” Rafe’s stare drills into me.
I nod. “Of course.”
“Jerry Cantrell doesn’t actually own the Knights. Gerald Senior left the team to Laken.”
“But—”
“Jerry doesn’t know,” Mrs. Cantrell adds. “And I’m in the process of organizing things so that I can sever any and all ties with my husband.”
“Oh. Well, you might need or want what I have to aid that.”
“And what is it that you have, Walker?”
“Pictures of him and Kristina Bancroft in compromising positions.”
“How did you get those?” Rafe asks.
“Ah, that’s something I cannot tell you, but they are authentic.”
“Oh, I have no doubt they are.” Mrs. Cantrell shakes her head. “He’s such an idiot.”
“No argument here,” Rafe adds.
“So, can I get my agent to craft my retirement announcement today and send it out first thing tomorrow?”
“You can send it today, Walker. The minute you step out I’ll be on the phone, but I will personally call your agent the minute the paperwork is signed.” Mrs. Cantrell holds out her hand. “It’s been a pleasure having you on the team, and I wish you the best in the future.”
I take her hand, surprised by the strength of her shake. Rafe offers his hand next.
“You need anything else, call me or Laken personally.”
“Thank you. Both. Where do you want me to send those pictures?”
“I’ll be in touch about those in the next few days.”
