Page 84 of Jasper

“Why would they do that?”

“Because I told them those were their options, walk away or be slaughtered.”

Again, the deadpan voice. She shivered and sank deeper into the mattress.

“Why?”

“For two reasons. They almost killed my nephew. No one touches a hair on his head without a visit from me. And because Jasper asked for my help to keep you safe.”

Jasper asked for his help? Jasper trusted him?

“Jasper had his reasons.” Conner’s lips twisted into a smile that transformed his entire face. The cold, dead eyes disappeared, and the mean demeanor melted away. “I knew his brother, and for him, I’d do just about anything. Henry’s little brother needed help, and it’s help I could give, so I did. You’ll be safe no matter what choice you make, Sloane. I promise.”

Henry had mattered to this man. A lot. She saw it in his eyes now that they were a little brighter. There was also a deep pain in them when he said Henry’s name. Now, that was an emotion she could trust because it was real.

“Wouldn’t it be wrong not to go to the police? The man had a family.”

“Wrong or right…neither is the right choice. It puts people in danger. Going to the police gives the man some justice, but it puts you and yours in danger. Not going to the police doesn’t give his family closure, but they’re safe right now. There’s no bounty on their heads. You, however, that’s a different story. It makes my life harder, and it means you’ll have to stay hidden and perhaps go into witness protection until they’re all dead.”

“So, what you’re saying is if I keep my mouth shut, there’ll be no bloodshed?”

“Pretty much.”

“You’re sure they won’t come after me?”

“I’m sure.”

“But how can you be so sure?”

“Because I’m The Executioner, and no one fucks with me.”

Chills raced down her spine. Serial killer Conner was back.

“I think I can live with keeping my mouth shut if his family is safe from retribution.”

“Good girl.” He winked at me, his charming smile on display again.

He put Ted Bundy, Charles Manson, and all those other really terrifying murderers to shame. He could charm you one second and slit your throat the next. It was right there in his eyes.

She believed him when he said he’d kill them all and they knew it. With Conner, it wasn’t just a boast. It was a statement of fact.

He leaned back. “How are you feeling?”

“About as good as anyone who’s been shot, I guess?”

“Getting shot is never fun. It hurts like a son of a bitch.”

“That too.”

He grinned. “It’ll get better in a few days. Just don’t let them give you too many pain meds. That shit is a bitch to kick if you get yourself addicted.”

She noticed he’d made himself comfortable, like he wasn’t planning on leaving any time soon.

“Can I ask you something?”

He nodded.

“Why would Jasper ask you for help? I mean, he’s sorta…”