Page 56 of Hidden

I tracked their path, and the undershirt that followed an instant later.

“I would rather not see Titus’s undergarments between us. Are you going to talk to me?” he asked.

I turned back to him.

He crouched in front of me. He seemed wary, but his expression was different than the others. He seemed almost afraid.

“Talk to you about what?” I said. “What’s wrong?”

“About Bryce.” His mouth thinned. “It was my idea. And I know how much you dislike—”

“I’m not angry about Bryce,” I interrupted, meaning it. “It was actually a brilliant plan. Thank you, Miles.” My stomach was twisting painfully, and I found it difficult to believe his biggest worry was Bryce.

Why wasn’t he looking at me with pity or asking questions?

He blinked, his cheeks darkening. “Are you sure? Because I’d rather you yell at me now—”

I touched his mouth, cutting off his statement. “I’m sure. I’m not going to yell at you.”

Relief entered his expression, and his tense shoulders relaxed.

“Besides, I don’t usually shout,” I said. “I’m not sure why you think so little of me. I’m always a calm and rational person.”

Miles’s eyebrow rose, amusement dancing in his eyes. “You’re so self-aware.”

“I know. It’s a mark of maturity.” I nodded, moving to my feet, reaching for Titus’s clothes. “It’s a talent that takes time to cultivate. Last night was a rare exception. Besides, I don’t get angry.”

No, there was no point to getting angry. Uncivilized ruffians would let their anger control them. I was different. I got even.

It wasn’t the same.

Like my eventual showdown with Finn. After I pushed him through a wall and crushed him under my heel, we would be even. Then I could move on with my life.

Maybe we might be friends again one day. He hadn’t been terrible when we were imprisoned by Daniel Cole.

My insides twisted with conflict, because now I owed him a debt. I didn’t like owing people.

Speaking of owing people… I needed access to my funds.

“Miles, how do I…” My voice trailed off at the incredulous look on his face. “What?”

“Just now!” He moved to his feet, pointing at me. “As you turned away, you had a look on your face. Then you went tense. What were you thinking about?”

I pursed my lips. “What look?” Was he delusional?

“It’s the one that says you’re going to do something terrible.” Miles stepped back. “You weren’t thinking about me, were you?”

I fought the urge to roll my eyes. Why was he so paranoid? “I wasn’t thinking aboutyou. If youmustknow, I was contemplating Finn’s punishment.”

“Oh.” His arm dropped back to his side, curiosity replacing the fear. “You’re still going to punish Finn? What is it this time? Are you still going to kill him?”

I frowned, looking at Miles disapprovingly.

I couldn’t believe he would consider such dramatic extremes. “I’m going to stomp on him. Perhaps I might push him, too. Why would I kill him?”

Now Miles seemed confused. “But yousaidyou were going to kill him. You said you were going to kick him in the balls. What happened to that plan?”

Oh,that.