Page 37 of Wicked Oath
It makes everyone else laugh.
* * *
After I get home,I find James in his study, reviewing paperwork. Most of the time we’ve spent together, we’ve been naked and having sex, so it’s strange to see him fully dressed and bent over a desk working. Sometimes I forget he’s a mob boss in his own right.
I knock on the open door. “Hey, can I ask you a question?”
He glances up, smiling at me in that effortless way of his. “Of course.”
I slip the photo from behind my back and hand it over to him. “Owen found an image taken from the crime scene at my father’s warehouse. This man was leaving the area at the time of the fire, I guess. Do you recognize him? My brother’s adamant about catching the person who did this.”
James looks at the photo, his face unchanging. “No, I don’t know him.” He smiles up at me. “Sorry, that doesn’t help matters.”
I shrug. “It’s fine. I just thought I’d ask. Though …”
He raises an eyebrow, waiting for me to go on.
“Doesn’t he sort of look like one of your men?”
James’s face still doesn’t move an inch. The easy smile remains on his face. “No. I think I’d know what my men look like.”
“Right.” I wave a hand. “Silly me. I just had to ask.”
“Of course.” He reaches across his desk and captures my hand in his. “You just want what’s best for your family. I would never endanger you or any of your family. I’ve gained power through common sense, not violent brute strength, and I hope Owen catches the man who did this. I’m here if you have any more questions.”
“Because you’re my husband,” I say.
“Exactly.”
I nod and leave him to finish up his work. As I walk away, my gut wants to believe him, yet …
I know I should be comforted that he didn’t react to the man in the photo, but his non-reaction almost seemed worse, like he was making an effort not to react.
And if James doesn’t want me to see his true reaction, then it makes me wonder …
Is he hiding something from me?
I shake my head. This is ridiculous. I’m letting Owen get to me.
I trust my husband. I made a vow to him. I’ll be at his side no matter what, no matter the outcome.
Our marriage is happy so far.
I want to make sure it stays that way.
CHAPTER10
James
Istorm out of the house and hurry to my car.
After Olivia showed me the picture of Finian, I knew things could get out of hand quickly if not handled efficiently.
So now I’m on my way to meet with Finian at one of my bars. It’s the middle of the day, so no other customers will be around, giving us privacy.
He’s waiting for me at the bar as I rush up to him. “What the fuck were you thinking?” I growl.
Finian raises an eyebrow, bunching his prominent scar higher up his face. “I don’t know what you mean, boss?” He casually takes a sip of his beer.
