Absolute Trust (Absolute Power Duet Book 2) by Jeana E. Mann

Author:Jeana E. Mann [Mann, Jeana E.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781943938438
Publisher: Ishkadiddle Publishing, LLC
Published: 2020-07-06T18:30:00+00:00

Fifteen

Cash

After a visit to the runaway shelter, I walk down the street, head bowed, typing notes into my phone. I’m pleased with the progress of the establishment. The kids are doing well. One of our prodigies is graduating from college with a degree in social work and returning next year to work for us. I don’t have many good things to mark the course of my life. But this—Chelle’s Shelter—fills me with pride. If I can save one teenager from the danger and uncertainty of living on the streets, my sacrifices have been worthwhile.

My Range Rover is parked down an alley a few blocks from the shelter. I do my best to keep a low profile. I have too many enemies. Most of the time, Gage is with me, but he’s in Chicago today, taking care of a few loose ends. I turn into the alley, still gazing at my phone, not paying attention. I reach for the handle of the vehicle to access the keyless entry, but someone steps in front of me.

“Cash.”

The hairs on the back of my neck lift. I know that voice. Soft, low, feminine. Dark, sparkling eyes stare back at me. I clear my throat, stalling for time to control my surprise before it shows on my face. “Hey, Cal. What’s up? Long time.”

“I know. I planned it that way.” She’s taller than I remember, a few years older, but just as beautiful as the day we met. I’ll never forget watching her on the stage of that strip club, almost naked, dancing her heart out for a few measly dollars, or the way my throat went dry before our first kiss.

“Does your boyfriend know you’re here?” The only time I met Nikolay Reznik Tarnovsky, he threatened my life if I came after Calliope.

“He’s my husband now, and yes, he knows.” Her sleeveless shirt shows toned biceps and shoulders.

I wait for a surge of sexual attraction that never arrives. Any romantic feelings for her died years ago. Now, all I’m left with is deep sadness over our bitter feud. “Congratulations. I hope he’s treating you well.”

“Like a queen.”

“I never thought I’d see you again.” I expected to be filled with fury and hate over the stolen money, my wounded ego, the way she humiliated me. Instead, a warm affection swells in my chest. Maybe because she looks so much like Jagger. I want to make peace, but my pride won’t let me. “Are you here to pay me back the money you stole?”

“We both know that I earned that money.” Her tone is quiet but adamant. “You never paid me for my work. If it hadn’t been for me, you’d still be a petty criminal living out of his car.”

Her accusation is fair, but my ego won’t let me concede the point. Not yet. “I gave you everything you ever needed—a home, clothing, a purpose.”

“You took me for granted, Cash. You treated me like a servant.” The pain in her voice cuts into my chest. “When we first got together, you promised me a future, independence, and security.

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