Page 34 of The First Cut

“That’s how I saw it, too. I promise I won’t send you the ones that piss me off in little pieces.”

“Most of them will follow you if you give them a reason to. There are a few, though, who’ll cry about how unfair it is. If you wanna chop anyone up, start them.”

“Will do, Prez.”

“Better get used to hearing that yourself. It’s weird as fuck.”

I grin. “My mama always wanted me to be president. Not sure this is what she had in mind, but beggars can’t be choosers. You got any idea when this is all gonna go down? I need to get shit sorted. CPS is already up my ass about Millie.”

“Soon. I’ve got the house. Lola’s already living there. Makes sense for you to both use it. It’s only a two-bedroom, but should be enough to keep CPS of your backs for a while.”

“Thanks. I’ll take it for now and see what’s out there before I decide whether to buy or build from scratch.”

“There’s a lot of space on the compound. Only a few live on-site. Those with families live closer to town.”

“It’s something to think about. But first, I need to figure out what Millie’s gonna need. And with the baby on the way, I’ll need shit for that too. I don’t know what Lola already has, but I’ll get it sorted. Jesus, at this rate, I’m gonna be gray by this time next year.”

“Nobody said this was gonna be easy. But if anyone can do it, it’s you.”

“I hope you’re right, for all our sakes.”

“Here ya go,” Dice says, placing the coffees down in to-go cups.

“One on the left’s yours. Can I get you anything, Prez?”

“You know where my woman is?”

“She went upstairs. Said she was going to write for a bit.”

“Alright. Thanks, Dice.”

“I’m going to find my old lady. She’s due a break.”

I smirk. “You just want to get your dick wet.”

“You’ve seen my old lady, Hannibal.”

“I have. But it turns out, I’m more partial to your ex.”

Chapter Ten

Lola

It’s been a week, and I’m starting to go stir-crazy.

I might be used to spending time alone, but I usually have more space to move around than just a bedroom. I miss being outside. Everything feels suffocating in here.

I’ve read my book twice and watched a ridiculous amount of daytime TV. If I see one more soap or game show, I might lose it.. I’m half-tempted to climb out the window and shimmy down the drainpipe—but I’m nowhere near as athletic as I was back in my cheerleading days.

A kick to my ribs makes me wince. I place my hand on my stomach, which seems to have popped even more over the past week.

“I know, nugget. I’m bored, too.”

When the lock clicks, I don’t even bother looking up. I just stay where I am and watch my stomach as my son kicks against my hand.

“Can I feel?”

My eyes widen at Hannibal’s words before looking up to see his face.