Page 51 of Burn the World Down

I was pretty sure that was code for getting me to have some exercise with a short walk. I munched on the rest of my candy bar and followed him down another path.

A huge, circular pool came into view.

It was too cold for swimming, but the pool looked immaculate. It was flanked by wooden pool loungers and dark-wood cabanas. They all had carved metal sides and breezy white curtains. I bet it was amazing in the warm weather.

“It is truly an honor for the Avernus to support such a worthy cause,” a smooth, masculine voice said.

We circled a large garden bed and ahead, I saw a man in a glossy suit standing at a microphone. He was blindly handsome, with a square jaw, perfectly styled blond hair and very white teeth. He looked like he should be an evening newsreader or doing commercials. There was a group of people nearby, some clearly press who were holding cameras and taking notes. Beside the man was an oversize check resting on a stand.

Nash pulled me into the shade under a tree where no one would spot us.

“The Avernus couldn’t think of a better charity to support than Veterans Village. Ensuring all our heroes have safe,affordable homes, and the resources they and their families need is vital. Thank you.”

Flashes blinked as the man shook hands with a woman and handed over the check.

“Mr. Tyler? Chance?” a reporter called out. “The Avernus has a history of helping veterans. What’s next for your casino in regards to your favorite cause?”

The man smiled. “I believe our Events team is planning a charity golf tournament and a spectacular gala ball. More details to come soon.”

“That went well.”

Bastian’s voice made me jolt. I saw him standing on the other side of Nash. I hadn’t heard or sensed him join us. He wore a suit that was tailored to his trim form. I realized that he was roughly the same height and weight as Nash, but the suits hid it well.

“Looks like it,” Nash agreed.

“That man owns the Avernus?” I really thought he belonged in a commercial, for toothpaste or expensive cars.

Nash chuckled. “Chance? No, he doesn’t, but everyone thinks he does.”

My brow creased.

Nash jerked a thumb at Bastian. “He owns the place.”

Bastian dusted off the shoulder of his jacket. “Considering my previous…employment, I had no desire to be the face of the casino. Chance does it for me and is well compensated.”

Now my eyebrows winged up. “So you can run the place from the shadows?”

He smiled at me. “I’m quite fond of the shadows.” He tilted his head. “Your face is looking better today.”

“Thanks.” He was being nice. The swelling had gone down, but my bruising was still impressive. At least my lip was almost healed.

“I’ll leave you to it,” Bastian said. “I have a meeting to get to. Let’s do dinner soon.” He winked at me. “Georgie, I look forward to getting to know you better.”

Nash scowled. “Don’t wink at her.”

That just made Bastian laugh. I watched him stride away. The way he moved was mesmerizing.

Nash took my hand and we ended up back on the path to his villa. “We need to check the orchids.”

“Can I water them again?”

“Yes.”

“So, you grow orchids, Landon became a doctor, and Bastian owns a casino.”

“Yes. He built the place.”

“It must have cost a fortune.”