Chapter 18
The car pulled up to a sprawling estate just past Limond City’s suburbs,
Briar stepped out, her eyes narrowing at the word Nocturne carved into the iron gate
This wasn’t some greasy diner–it screamed old–money vibes.
Enzo sauntered over, hands behind his head, smirking. “Hey, Ms. Shepherd, Cyrus doesn’t bring just anybody here. You’re kind of a big deal”
“Pit, what, a burger joint’s too mainstream for him?” Briar shot back, one brow arched. She let out a dry laugh. “Sounds like a flex. Don’t gas me up like I’m special,”
Enzo popped the trunk and hauled out a wheelchair, Cyrus, looking half–dead, slid into it with surprising case, no wobbles.
“Cyrus,” Enzo teased, “you’re barely alive and still out here? Watch your back, man–you–know who might take a shot”
Cyrus gave him a lazy side–eye, and Enzo shut up quick,
Briar strolled beside them, sizing Cyrus up. It was obvious he called the shots. What she couldn’t figure out was why, with everything already out in the open, he was so dead–set on this dinner
She leaned toward Enzo, a sly grin creeping up. “So, who’s this you–know–who‘ you’re whispering about?”
Enzo flinched. Damn, girl, you move like a ghost!”
“Chill, dude,” Briar chuckled. “Who were you two talking about!“
Enzo snorted. “Why’s a nosy kid like you gotta know?”
“Just curious.”
“Curious, hub Keep your nose out of it–curiosity kills cats, you know.” His face stayed stone–cold, but he flicked her a quick glance.
Briar zipped her lips, but her mind was racing. These two were on edge, and she was the one they were watching
“So, these lowlifes, bold enough to pull a job in the Strueze region, are actually scared of something she mused internally. ‘Spooked, yet still dumb enough to play their games.
Briar kept her steps light, her smile all sunshine, hiding the coiled viper underneath.
A woman in a striking red dress rushed out of the mansion, its grounds, reminiscent of a classic estate–gravel paths winding through manicured lawns, oak trees rustling in the breeze.
She was maybe early thirties, flawless face, warm smile widening as she approached. “Cyrus. Enzo, a heads–up would’ve been nice!”
Her eyes landed on Briar’s rugged boot–camp getup. “And who’s this?”
Cyrus stayed silent. Enzo shrugged. “Melanie, meer Briar Shepherd Ran into her at Limond U. Just a friend.”
“A friend, huh? Melanie York’s smile grew, her eyes lighting up at Briar’s raw, natural beauty.
She added, Ms. Shepherd, you’re a knockout. Come on in–I’ve got a private room ready for you guys”
Briar trailed behind Cyrus’s wheelchair, quietly sizing up Melanie.
Her instincts screamed: this wasn’t just some hostess. Those sleek curves didn’t hide the toned muscles in her calves, and the calluses on her trigger finger shouted gunner.
Briar’s senses kicked into overdrive, already mapping her exit.
“Ms. Shepherd?” Melanie brushed a strand of hair aside and flashed a grin. “Something on my dress?”
Brar didn’t flinch, even when caught staring. She raised a brow and smirked. “Melanie, that dress is fire, but you’re stealing the show.”
Melanie practically glowed at the compliment. Everyone loved a pretty girl with a sharp tongue.
“Smooth talker,” Melanie said, winking as she leaned in. “So, what’s so great about me?”
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Chapter 18
_ “Melanie,” Cyrus cut in, voice like ice.
“Whoa, you’re sticking up for a girl now!” Melanie teased, smirking.
“She’s just a kid”
“A kid, huh?” Melanie’s brows shot up as she turned to Briar. “Alright, spill–what’s so great about me! Nail it, and I’ll whip up something special in the kitchen just for you.”
Briar blinked. This lady’s pushing thirty and acting like a teenager?
Still, flattery worked wonders. Briar was about to drop some smooth words when a voice cut through “Briar? What the hell are you doing here?”
She spun around, locking eyes with the last three people she wanted to see, strolling out of the estate.
Briar’s grin streiched wide, dashing pearly whites. “Mom, Dad, fancy seeing you here. Small world, right?”
Her voice dripped with casual charm, like she was catching up with old pals.
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