Page 228 of King of Pain

It’s a young guy—jacked, tattooed from wrist to throat, purple hair styled tall and sharp.

I recognize that hair.

The first to watch over me after Chance left.

I smile. “Ah. The elusive guardian angel.Murph.”

He grins. “Hey.”

I step aside. “Come in. It’s so good to finally meet you in person.”

We shake hands. His grip is solid.

“Chance took Guinness for a run. You must’ve just missed them downstairs,” I say.

Murph nods, eyes scanning the room. A habit I recognize all The Doves possess.

“Grab a seat while you wait. Can I make you a drink?” I ask him.

“No, thank you. I can’t stay. I’m not in town long, but needed to see Chance in person to give him something.”

I nod, curiosity piqued, but don’t press.

“Are you seeing your sister while you’re here?” I ask.

He smiles. “I just came from the gallery. Thought I’d catch them both at once, but Chance was already gone for the day.”

“Ah, yeah, we had a thing,” I tell him.

Murph winces. “Yeah, Chance already told me what you were doing. I hope that’s okay.”

I beam. “I’d be more concerned if he didn’t.”

Murph breathes a little easier.

“And Murph?” I add. He raises an eyebrow. “We expect you to be a part of it—part of our lives.”

He dips his head shyly.

“If it wasn’t for what you did for Chance,” I say, voice soft, “we may not be where we are today. I never got to thank you.”

Murph meets my gaze. “No need. Just know they’ll always be protected—”

The door bursts open and Little G trots in, leash dragging, Chance breathless behind him, sweat-slicked and glowing.

“What—Murph?” Chance says, stunned.

Murph grins and strides over, pulling him into a tight hug.

When they part, Murph scrunches his nose. “Gross. You’re sweaty.Badassshirt though.”

Chance laughs.

“I didn’t know you were in town. Let me shower, we’ll order food, catch up—”

Murph shakes his head. “I really need to catch my flight. I’m on my way to San Francisco. But…” He pulls an envelope from his back pocket. “I had to stop here first. Needed to give this to you in person.”

Chance’s brows shoot up. Murph gestures to the table. “You might want to sit down.”