The Brink (Unbroken Raine Falling 3)

“You’re not wrong there,” Liam grimly agreed.

“If you want to cause your ex some pain, I’ve got a nice big toy bag in the bedroom closet.” He leered.

“I’ll bet.” He snorted at the sadist. “If I have to touch her to use those, then no thanks.”

Beck chuckled. “I’ve got to run. Text me if you have any questions. Hell, text me and let me know how Raine’s doing.”

“Will do,” Liam replied, surprised by the emotion thick in his throat. “I appreciate all you’ve done, Beck.”

“You can thank me after we find out that kid’s DNA doesn’t match yours.” He saluted, then turned and rushed out the door.

They sat quietly for several long minutes, Liam digesting the conversation. Then he turned to Hammer. “Is there something you’re not telling me about Raine? About Bill?”

“Not at all,” Hammer assured. “I’m just thinking… I know you said Gwyneth didn’t ask for money, but she’s got to have a price.”

“She’s got more money than god, Macen. She’s here for me.” Even Liam could hear the defeat in his own voice.

“Well, then, I guess for the first time in her pampered life, Gwyneth’s not going to get what she wants.”

“I could give a shit what she wants. I’m more worried about Raine.”

“We’re going to take care of her tonight,” Hammer reassured.

“What if it turns out I do have a son? Will she still want me then?”

“Of course. Raine’s heart is huge. There’s room in it for me, you, and Kyle. If he’s yours, she’ll love him, too, because he’s a part of you.”

“Thanks. I needed to hear that.” Liam sighed. “I want you to know that no matter how the test comes out, I am committed to you and Raine. I’ll do whatever I have to, but I won’t let Gwyneth come between us.”

“Now you’re talking.” Hammer smiled and raised the bottle.

They drank a toast, and for the first time all day, Liam felt as if he had a bit of solid ground beneath his feet.

“Listen, why don’t you go back to my room and slide in bed with Raine,” Hammer suggested. “She’s missing you. She could use the reassurance.”

“I’d like that.” Liam was damn grateful for the suggestion. He needed to feel her wrapped around him, breathe in her warmth. “I’m not very centered at the moment. I may sound like some damn Nancy, but just being near her calms me, Macen.”

“It’s the same for me.” Hammer nodded, then grim determination lined his face. “I’ll be in to join you two shortly. First, I want to talk to Gwyneth.”

“I don’t think that’s a wise idea.” It wasn’t that Liam didn’t appreciate his friend’s help, but things were already fucked up enough without Hammer shoving his stick into the pot and giving it a big stir. “I’d rather you let her be.”

“I know, and I understand why. But she’s put on her best face for you. She might slip up with me, give some hint about why she’s suddenly so eager to make you three a family.”

“You’re only going to piss her off. And if she comes screaming down the hall—”

“I’ll cuff her to a cross and duct tape her mouth shut before I let that happen.” Hammer’s lips curled in a wicked smile.

“And you’d enjoy every fucking minute of it, too, no doubt.” Liam stood. “I’ll put this DNA kit in my car so I’m ready when the baby wakes and I’ve moved him far from Raine. If you can’t possibly live without grilling Gwyneth, I won’t stop you. But for Raine’s sake, keep the fatalities in the war zone to a minimum, will you?”

“Boy Scout’s honor.” Hammer smirked.

Liam rolled his eyes and stood, tucking the sack under his arm. “We both know you were never a Boy Scout, mate. I’ll be back.”

As Liam left the bar, Hammer stood. Squaring his shoulders, he marched down the hall, jaw clenched. The day had been a fucking circus. He itched to keep all the animals in line with his whip, but circumstances prevented that. He didn’t like things being out of his control.

The thought of waiting twenty-four hours before he knew whether Liam had gotten Gwyneth pregnant seemed as interminable as a life sentence in prison. Which was where Macen would find himself if Raine’s father made good on his promise.

While Hammer had competent, cutthroat lawyers, he knew paying off Raine’s father for so many years made him look guilty. Innocent men didn’t resort to bribery. Even if Raine testified that Hammer never touched her sexually when she was a minor, the DA could claim Raine suffered from Stockholm syndrome or some other bullshit to convict him.

At least Liam would be here to care for Raine if the worst came to pass…unless Gwyneth sank her claws into him.

Pausing outside the newly renovated suite, Hammer dialed back his anger. He couldn’t afford any chink in his armor. If Gwyneth sensed one, she’d go for blood. The bitch had come halfway around the world in hopes of ensnaring her ex-husband. She was in for a rude awakening.