Page 79 of Beautiful Revenge

“No.”

He gives me the peace sign. “How many fingers am I holding up?”

“Two.”

He points to Dean. “What’s his name?”

I sigh. “Mr. Bigshot.”

“Yeah, that’s definitely sticking.” He tosses his mini flashlight in the bag, zips it up, and hoists it over his thick shoulder. He turns to Devon. “If she complains of feeling sick, lightheaded, or she can’t stay awake, take her to the ER. She can get back to ... normal activities as soon as she feels like it.”

“Thanks,” Devon deadpans.

I cringe.

I’ve spent the better part of the last two months trying to stay alive only to move in with the owner of The Manor at Winslet and wish for a speedy death.

“Seriously, feel free to call me if you need anything,” Payne offers. “See you at softball later, Dean?”

“Not today. I’ll be knee-deep in paperwork from this mess.” Dean sighs before turning his focus on me. “Do you feel like answering some questions?”

“I guess.” I tuck my messy hair behind my ear and realize I must look a sight, not to mention crying through my makeup. “Can I ask you something first?”

“Shoot.”

Wow. Mr. Bigshot doesn’t think twice about his poor choice of words.

“Roman,” I start. “Is he...?”

Devon brushes the hair from my face and plants his fine ass on the edge of his desk. “He was alive on the way to the hospital. He has a gunshot wound to his lower midsection. I’m sure Dean will get an update as soon as the hospital has one.”

I pull in a deep breath.

“Hey.” Devon puts a light hand on my cheek. It may be the lightest touch I’ve ever felt from him. “None of this was your fault.”

“I know,” I tell him the truth. “I really hope he makes itthrough. We were in the middle of a conversation, and I’d like to finish it.”

Devon and Dean share a questioning glance.

Devon crosses his arms. “What were you talking about?”

“He said we’d met, but I couldn’t place him. I know I’ve never seen that man before yesterday at the pool. I want to know why he lied to me.” I look from Devon to Dean. “I know who’s behind this.”

Dean hikes a brow. “You know who shot at you?”

I hike a shoulder in a bored shrug. “My ex, Albert Humphries. I told Devon all about it. He also sent me a threatening text this morning.”

Devon’s eyes narrow. “I’m going to need to see that text. But my gut says Roman Malloy has nothing to do with your past because he has everything to do with mine.” He interrupts while I fight to understand what he’s saying. “There’s a lot I haven’t told you.”

CHAPTER NINETEEN

TEMPTING HELL

Devon

“Now isn’t a good time, Bella. I need to get Harlow settled and meds for her headache.” The elevator doors part, and I don’t take my eyes or hand off Harlow. She’s already had two bumps on the head today and lived through a harrowing experience.

She hasn’t pulled away from me since I got back to her after the shooting. After she went storming out on me this morning, I’m calling it a win.