Page 92 of Captured

Both Creed and Easton walked closer, flanking my sides. I couldn’t help myself as the reporter shivered in the chilly air while talking about the heinous murders that had occurred the night before.

“A home invasion?” Easton asked.

“Perhaps.” I glanced over my shoulder at Axe, who was shaking his head, still grinning as I knew he would be.

“You did this,” Creed said with disbelief in his voice.

“No, I didn’t have to. Fate stepped in.”

Creed turned toward me, laughing in sheer amusement. “What did you do, pit Gideon against Liam?”

“I didn’t need to. You see, Gideon has some issues of his own. Take a peek at the morning paper. I’d sure you’ll find the exposé a fascinating read.”

Creed was the first eager one, grabbing one of the copies. “My fucking God. It would seem I’ve underestimated you.”

“Jesus Christ. You did all this?” Easton asked, switching his gaze from the television to the new contract and back to the newspaper.

“I did. It came together beautifully. And I got something in the deal.”

“You purchased Gideon’s daughter?” Creed asked.

“It depends on how you look at it. Since I already had her in my possession, you know what they say. Possession is nine-tenths of the law.”

“As if we’re law-abiding citizens,” Creed said, laughing. “You eliminated two powerful enemies while gaining a fucking sheik as a business partner. Good work. And it ain’t even government work.”

“Well, I thought it was time to return to my position as president of our illustrious corporation.” I glanced from one man to the other.

“No more assassinations?” Easton asked as the reporter droned on about how tightlipped the police were.

“I think it’s past time for another career change. Plus, I want to be home more often. It’s a win-win.” I grinned again, feeling a slight sense of relief it had all worked out the way I’d planned. Then again, greed always allowed for a clear path.

“Well, I guess I’ll need to consult with our attorney on the new financial deal.” Easton wasn’t his normal grumpy self. Perhaps all three of us had finally come to terms with our pasts, ready to keep them under lock and key.

“Yes, I hear you, brother.”

“Should we plan on seeing you at the next board meeting?” Creed asked, the twinkle in his eyes also no longer as annoying as it had once been.

“I think you might. We’ll see what the next few weeks bring in my new life filled with happiness.”

“You mean the love of a good woman.” Easton almost sounded forlorn. None of us had been successful up to this point for various reasons.

“Don’t worry, brother. She’ll come around when you least expect it.”

“Or when you purchase it,” Creed said, back to his usual asshole self.

I shook my head, glancing at Axe. “Well, I did the hard part. The two of you can announce our good fortune to our board members and to the press. I have other things to do.”

“Including going back to the love of a good woman?” There was a wistful look in Easton’s eyes. Perhaps the time spent teaching inside a classroom had been good for him after all.

“Something like that. I’ll call you in a few days. Don’t forget to send me a dividend check,” I told them.

“As if you need it, bro,” Creed chortled. “It would seem like you have everything you need, including getting your sanity back. There’s just one question I have.”

“What’s that?” I shoved my hands into my pockets, no longer needing the drink. The facts Gideon was about to be arrested for Kendall’s murder and Liam was dead had combined with the longing to see my sweet angel to give me a natural high.

Now it was about gaining her trust and hoping she’d fall in love with the man who’d captured her.

Obsessed over her.