Page 44 of Caged
Alexei’s brows drop. “Why me? I keep secrets.”
That draws a laugh out of Jax and a snort out of me.
We all know he’s the one who dropped the news that my wife was Jax’s sister at the worst possible moment. It nearly ruined Jax.
“Fine, Alexei. Don’t tell anyone that we’re moving the diamonds. Keep it under lock and key.” Mikhail lifts one eyebrow. “They’ll all know faster if you try and keep it under wraps.”
Alexei’s lower lip juts out and he crosses his arms. “I feel used.”
Mikhail waves him off. “There are much worse things in life than being used as a parrot.”
Jax slaps Alexei on the shoulder. “Better than being an ass.”
“You’re the donkey.” Alexei elbows him back.
They’re both animals.
“Go. Spread your secrets to the world so that Knox finds us.” Mikhail gestures to the door, ushering us all to leave.
“Where should we go?” Jax glances at his watch. “If we hit one of the bars, we can drop enough hints and I can be back by dinner. Sofia has plans for us tonight, so I’m not staying out late.”
“I can.” Alexei mellows and falls in to step with us. “Lara still isn’t answering my calls.”
Jax slows and looks up at him. “Why do you watch her so closely? Maybe she just wants some space from this whole lifestyle?”
Alexei shakes his head. “It’s my job.” He sets his jaw and speeds up, outpacing us and disappearing around the corner.
“Does he have a thing for your sister?” Jax waits until we’re in the parking garage before asking.
I shake my head. “It’s complicated. He’s been like that since we were young.”
How do I explain the way we grew up?
“Ah. I get it. Still up for drinks?” He straddles his Ducati and slides his helmet on.
“No. I need to get back. Melissa is watching Elena.”
His visor bobs up and down. “Nice. Getting cozy with the new nanny!” He holds out his fist for a bump.
“It isn’t like that.” I scowl at him and climb in my Hellcat, slamming it shut before he can say anything else.
Could it be?
She’s nice enough, and has a hot body. But, there’s just, well, something I can’t put my finger on.
I know she’s not telling me everything.
And, there are moments when I see a fire lit in her eyes that she dampens when she sees me watching.
What isn’t she telling me?
Is that burning ember who she really is, or is it the teary facade she shows me any time I ask her a question?
I’m not sure if I’m frustrated or intrigued.
The house is quiet when I get home, and the smell of fresh popcorn lingers in the air.
Tossing my bag next to the door, I hear Elena giggle from the living room.