Page 99 of Devil's Property

I pressed my hand against my face, groaning as she laughed at me. “He’s not too bad. I think he’s trying to keep me here.”

“Ooh-la-la. I told you, a fairytale.”

Fairytale wasn’t the word I’d use.

“Just so you know, Dad was headed to Santa Barbara after meeting with me so he could talk with you.”

“He never arrived. When I couldn’t get in touch with him, I came to LA where I discovered the truth.”

“I’m sorry you had to find out that way,” she offered. “Daddy mentioned he’d set up a trust fund for us. Did you know that?”

“He left a few things I haven’t had time to look at, but a trust fund is like blood money.”

Brooke took my hand. “Dad sacrificed for us, Fallon. I don’t know all the ins and outs of a crime syndicate family other than watchingThe Sopranos.”

“A fairly accurate depiction.”

“Then it’s survival of the fittest. When Dad had a chance to leave, he did. I think the life came back to haunt him.”

“You mean to haunt his family.”

“Yes. What if Dad is as much of a victim as we’ve both been?”

I didn’t know how best to answer that. “I don’t know.”

“Maybe that’s something you can figure out with Navarro. Although maybe not, since you two hate each other and all.”

“I don’t know if I hate him. Okay, I did, but now? I’m not so certain.”

She wagged her finger. “See what I mean? He’s a very nice man and thinks highly of you.”

“Now, how would you know that?”

“Let’s just say we bonded over a slice of pizza.”

“Where was I?”

“Painting outside. Don’t look so shocked. He was making certain I was okay and we got to talking.”

I gave her a hard look. “Which means you grilled the man.”

“Of course I did. Any man who has the hots for my sister gets my rapt attention.”

“Spill it. What did he tell you?”

“Oh, no. You’re not getting a single thing from me. You can find out on your own.”

“You’re a terrible sister.”

“You know you love me,” she countered. Her smile fell. “He really does care about you. I can tell just from his expressions. Maybe give him a chance.”

“Why should I?”

“Because you were the one who tried to kill him. Remember?”

“Oh, that.”

“Yeah, that.”