Page 41 of Sinner's Malice

“Do we have any leads on Popeye?” Fury asked.

“Have you checked Stone Corporation? He has a room on the top floor. He likes to stay there when he needs time to think,” I offered.

And just like that, all eyes were on me again.

“What did you just say?”

“Stone Corporation. Popeye has a room on the top floor. I thought you knew?”

And just like that, Montana, along with the rest of the board members, bolted from the room.

Chapter Ten

Malice

It was chilly, and I worried she would catch a cold, but every time I mentioned it, she told me she was fine.

I hated that word.

Fine.

There was nothing fine about anything anymore.

Nothing was fine at home.

Nothing was fine with Arianwen.

Nothing was fine, period.

“Sitting there sulking instead of telling me why you’re here will solve nothing.”

“I know.”

“Then speak. I don’t have all day.”

I smirked at that as I looked out over the horizon. There was nothing around for miles, only wheat fields and clear skies. The area was desolate, almost nonexistent, yet peaceful. She could walk for miles and see no one. I hated she was all alone out here, but it was what she wanted, and I didn’t have the heart to tell her no. Instead, I bought up all the surrounding land, built her a small three-bedroom house, and made damn sure she had everything she needed and more.

“Are you happy here?”

She nodded. “I am.”

“You look healthy.”

“If by that you mean I look better than I did when you found me, then I will take it as a compliment.”

“Amelia?”

“Yes.”

“Do you think I’m like him?”

I saw her stiffen slightly before she took a deep breath and relaxed. Holding on to the coffee mug in her hand, she brought it to her lips and took a tentative sip as she contemplated her response.

Amelia didn’t mince words.

She believed in plain speak and the truth.

Even if it hurt to hear it.