Page 6 of She Gives Love a Bad Name

“That’s not fair.” Fear flutters through me, but I retain the strength in my voice. “We had a deal.”

“Deals change.” His sadistic smile makes my stomach churn. “If you want to take it up with the boss, I’ll escort you over there now.”

“No.” My heart stops at the thought of facing him before I have the funds. “Fuck. I’ll have it to you by next week. But after that, I’m done. We’re done.”

“Good girl.” Jack pats my knee.

It takes all my effort not to puke at his touch. The silver medallion around his neck catches the overhead light when he stands. I barely maintain my composure until the subway comes to a stop. He exits, leaving me in a state of fury and disbelief.

I know better than to make a deal with a devil. Even one I thought I knew.

There’s nothing I can do about it now. It would be better if I disappeared, vanished into thin air. But I can’t. Not yet. Not until I take care of my debts. Mom’s safe, but not me. I’m fucked.

How the hell did I let myself get into this mess?

When I finally arrive, the mansion on Riverside is quiet. Milly tells me the family is out, on a yacht in the Caribbean or something ridiculous. Relief fills me. I don’t have to deal with the family. With that many ex-wives, drama is never in short supply.

Milly hands me the cleaning carrier, and together we climb the opulent staircase to the second floor. We work in relative silence, but inside my mind, I’m screaming.

This job gives me enough money to get through day-to-day life, but it won’t take care of the debt hanging over my head. Jack’s stark reminder of my predicament leaves me nauseated and miserable.

I can’t let them pull me under. Not when I’ve fought so hard to stay afloat.

Fuck them for putting me in this position.

Milly takes the master suite, and I work on the bathroom. Glittering sapphires and diamonds lay in an open jewelry box on the bureau. My gaze lingers as I pass by. The sparkle calls to me, promising security and closure.Freedom.

I close my eyes and press forward.No. I’m not going to do this. Not tonight. There has to be another way.

There isn’t another way, and you know it, my mind whispers as I spray the vanity in the bathroom.No one is coming to your rescue. If you don’t seize this opportunity, it’s done.I double over at the thought of Jack’s disgusting grin as he hovers above me, taking his payment in flesh and blood.

“You okay?” Milly asks from the doorway.

“Yeah, fine. Just the fumes.” I wave my hand to disperse the invisible gases.

“Crack the window. It helps.” She smiles and returns to her duties.

I open the window, and a cool breeze ghosts over my skin. The sounds of the city filter in on the night air, and I know I’m fucked either way.

One last heist, then I’m done.

I swear on my mother’s grave.

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