Page 30 of Burn the World Down

Resolve filled me.

I would do this. Alone.

I didn’t need Nash. I only needed myself.

I carefully loaded the gun.

I could do this.

For Viv.

Shoving the gun in my bag, I slid out of my car.

A cool breeze danced around me, and I pulled my jacket closer. I was surprised at how cold the nights could get here inthe winter. Even at three o’clock in the morning, Vegas wasn’t asleep. Lights blinked from all directions, and I could hear shouts, laughter, and the thump of music.

I didn’t let myself think of Nash.

There is just you. You’re the only person you can count on.

I pulled out my phone as I walked and listened to the message from Viv.

“Hey, Georgie. I just… I just wanted to tell you that I love you.”

I listened to the end. “I hope you’re sipping pink champagne, Viv,” I murmured.

I didn’t care what happened to me now. If I survived this, and took out Snyder and his vultures, I’d get in my car and drive. As far away as possible.

I thought of Viv’s grave in the cemetery here.

I hadn’t been there. I’d still been in hospital when they’d buried her. I hadn’t been able to make myself go to see her gravestone.

It didn’t matter. She wasn’t there anymore. She was flying free.

I stiffened my spine. The closer I got to Red Neon, the louder the distant thump of music. There was no line outside at this time. I nestled into the shadows across the street and waited.

Sure enough, like clockwork, Snyder’s car—an expensive BMW sedan—pulled up, idling at the curb.

I dragged in a deep breath. He’d walk out soon.

I pulled out the gun. It felt heavy. My fingers clutched it.

I’d always been taught that taking a life was wrong. To trust in the law. I’d also been taught that bad guys didn’t get away with their crimes.

Unfortunately, I’d learned that little nugget wasn’t true.

The doors opened. I saw a group of giggling, tipsy clubgoers stumble out. The women were all arm in arm, laughing.

So carefree.

They disappeared down the street, then a second later, the door opened again.

Bruno walked out.

My heart hit my ribs. He was glancing back over his shoulder. He wasn’t smiling but didn’t look any worse for wear after my little attack earlier. Except for the bandaged cut on his cheek. I felt a spurt of satisfaction.

Alden followed him out.

Then Snyder.