Page 67 of His Lair
“Because you don’t kill people you love,” he says confidently. “I do want to hear about these fifty ways, though.”
“I’m… I will see you tomorrow. Just give me some time to think about what I’m going to tell my dad.” I sigh. “I’m glad I’m coming back.”
“Me too. Do me a favor. Don’t leave town without me again.”
“What are you going to do? Tag along on every job I take?”
“I could,” he says.
“Okay, I’ll see you tomorrow.” I cut the call.
He didn’t say he didn’t want me to take on jobs. That’s a plus. I’m not entirely sure I want to keep working, but I don’t think I’m ready to stop either. Technically, I don’t need to. I have enough cash to live a very comfortable life. But I don’t want a man to be the reason I quit doing anything. I don’t want to bethat woman. Especially when I’ve spent my entire life being taught not to rely on anyone, not to change myself for anyone.
Is it changing for Sammie or for myself, though? I want the life that Sammie is selling me. I was happy with him in Vegas. Although all of our interactions were in private, seeing as we never really went out publicly. His friends didn’t even know we were dating. Well, I’m sure they suspected something was happening. They’re smart and preceptive.
I jump online and book two suites at the Wild Card. I know Sammie wants me to stay with him, and I more than likely will sneak into his apartment. But I don’t think my dad is ready to know I have a boyfriend. Or I’m just too chicken shit to tell him that I do.
I take a deep breath. I need to tell him.I can do this. I’m a grown-ass woman. I’m allowed to date.
That is my internal pep talk as I make my way back out to the living room.
“Hey, Dad, can we talk?” I ask, sitting down on the sofa.
“What’s up?” he says.
“I… ah… I met someone. In Vegas. I met a man.”
“You met a man?” My dad pauses the television and turns his full attention on me.
“I mean, I’m seeing someone. Dating someone.” I clear my throat and try to force a smile.
“You’re dating someone?”
“Uh-huh.” I nod my head.
“Well, he must be important if you’re telling me about him. Does he know what you do?”
“He does now. He didn’t at first, but he found out.”
“Do I want to know what this man does?” Dad asks.
“He owns a casino,” I say, leaving out the fact that it’s a front for criminal activities. “Funny story actually. He owns the Wild Card.”
“He’s the son of the woman John is marrying?” Dad attempts to clarify.
I nod my head in reply. “And he wants to meet you.”
“Does he now?” Dad quirks a brow at me.
“I really like him, Dad,” I admit.
“I taught you to take care of yourself, Lailani. Probably too well. Even knowing how capable you are doesn’t stop me from worrying. It doesn’t stop me from wanting to protect you. But if this man is worth your time, if you think he is, then I can’t wait to meet him.” Dad smiles. “Besides, if he breaks your heart, I’ll kill him. I don’t care what crime family he’s connected to.”
Like I said, my dad is smart.
“Thank you, Dad.” I get up and hug him. “But you won’t have to kill him. If he breaks my heart, I’ll kill him myself.”
“That’s my girl.” My dad pats my back and switches the television back on.