Page 107 of Burn the World Down

I scowled at him. “You can’t give my woman Christmas gifts.”

“Yes, I can.” He looked back at Georgie. “Tomorrow, you have an interview. With the head of Events here at the Avernus.”

Georgie sat up straighter, then pulled a face. “I won’t take a pity job from you, Bastian.”

“It’s not that. It’s an interview. A toe in the door. It’s up to you to get the job. Now, I will put in a good word for you. I’ve seen your skills, your drive, your work ethic. It’s an entry-level job working for Marilyn Strauss. She’s been working inevent planning for decades. I poached her from Caesar’s Palace. I suspect the Army wishes they could recruit her. She runs everything with military precision and she doesn’t suffer fools. She won’t hire you if she doesn’t think you can do it.”

I saw excitement on my woman’s face. She wanted the job.

“Really?” Georgie asked.

“Really.” Bastian sipped his wine. “She’s expecting you in her office tomorrow, ten o’clock. The rest is up to you.”

Georgie bounced in the chair and clapped her hands. “Thank you!” She leaped up and threw her arms around Bastian.

I narrowed my eyes.

My asshole of a friend caught my gaze and took his time hugging my woman.

I’d kill him later. Right now, I was too pleased that he’d made my woman so happy.

CHAPTER 40

GEORGIE

Holding tight to Nash’s hand, we walked across the grass. At this time of year, it was lush and green. We circled a small man-made lake, surrounded by tall, straight palm trees. Dull gray clouds clogged the sky and there was a cold wind blowing.

Tomorrow was Christmas Day.

Just a few weeks ago, I hadn’t been looking forward to the holiday. I’d been dreading it. I’d been too tangled up in my grief and need for revenge.

Now, I couldn’t wait. I felt like a little kid again. I squeezed Nash’s hand and he squeezed back. He was going to make breakfast for us, and we’d open our presents by the tree. Later, I was going to cook a turkey for a gang of retired assassins. My lips quirked.

If anyone had told me what I’d be doing at Christmas, I wouldn’t have believed a single word. Wouldn’t have believed that I’d be in love, happy, and with so many possibilities ahead of me.

Then I saw the marker set in the ground and my heart squeezed painfully.

I stared at the words inscribed on the gravestone.

Vivienne Linden.

Beloved daughter and sister.

Forever loved.

My throat tightened. I squeezed Nash’s hand again, then crouched. I set the flowers I carried down beside Viv’s gravestone.

“Hi, Viv.” I touched the smooth stone. It was the first time I’d been here. “I just wanted to come and see you, but… You aren’t here. You’re free and flying high.” I smiled, tears welling in my eyes. “With Elliot, and mom and dad.” My chest hitched. “I miss you all so much, but you don’t need to worry about me. I’m doing okay. And I’m not alone.”

I stood, and Nash wrapped an arm around me. I leaned into him. He was wearing a brown leather jacket and looked so good.

“Nash is taking good care of me. Viv, I hope you’re taking good care of yourself. I love you.” I looked at the beautiful orchids that Nash had put together for me. They were gorgeous. Viv would’ve loved them.

“It’s Christmas tomorrow. I’m making eggnog, but Nash bought me a bottle of really good pink champagne. I’ll have some for you.” I grinned. “I also got a new job! I interviewed with the most intimidating woman I’ve ever met. She’s smart, experienced, and bossy. I’ll be working in Events at the Avernus casino. Can you believe it?”

Sadness washed over me. God, I wished she was here. I could almost hear her squeals of excitement, her happy laughter.

“I promise I’ll come back.” My voice was thick. “I’ll bring you some more of Nash’s orchids, and I’ll tell you all about the new job.”