Page 128 of More than Paper

An arrogant smile grows on his face. “Good. I’m glad you’re coming to your senses.”

Valeria’s mother says something in Spanish, and she replies, walks over to me, and puts her hand on my back.

“I think we need to get cleaned up and ready for dinner. Don’t you?”

“Sounds good.”

We’re shown into the guest quarters, which is the size of an apartment. When the door shuts, I exhale.

“You did good. Are you going to be okay through dinner?”

“Yes.”

“Santiago should be there.”

“That’s what we need.”

“Hopefully, I can talk to Mama alone tonight,” Valeria says.

That means I’ll be alone with a room full of criminals. Awesome.

You’re doing it for Quinn. Stay focused. Don’t wuss out.

“I’m going to shower first if you’re okay with that?”

“Sure.”

I take my bag into the bathroom and shut the door. After I turn the water on, I stand with my hands on the counter, looking in the mirror, reminding myself of all the things I need to get right.

Don’t commit to anything.

Give both Alejandro and Santiago enough to think they are both getting their way.

Find out why Alejandro doesn’t want Santiago to take over.

It’s the puzzle piece that is needed to give Valeria and I our freedom. We don’t know why Alejandro has gone cold on Santiago, but if he wants me to take over, he has. We need to find out the reason.

27

Quinn

When I wake up,I’m disoriented and not sure where I am. Then I realize I’m at Piper’s.

Jamison.The events of the day before come racing to my mind.

The hurt look on his face haunts me, ripping my heart for the millionth time.

I don’t know why this has to hurt so bad. Why can’t I accept his marriage and the circumstances around it?

I get out of bed and walk out to the main room. Noah and Piper are sitting at the table, drinking coffee, talking in hushed tones.

Guess the guys found a ride.

When I went to sleep, Noah wasn’t home yet, and Charlotte was still at Piper’s.

“I’m awake. You don’t have to whisper anymore,” I tell them and walk into the kitchen to get a cup of coffee. “Did Charlotte go home, or is she sleeping?”

“Xander came and got her last night,” Noah says.

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