Exodus (The Ravenhood)

“A fantastic Thursday afternoon?”

“This isn’t funny!”

“Depends on who you’re asking.” I frown. “And that was some damn good weed. I guess I’ll have to go back to that deli.”

Ryan blinks at me like I just shot him.

“I was just feeling nostalgic.”

“Who in the hell are you?” He asks, eyeing me.

“Relax, you can get the charges dropped. They didn’t even fingerprint me. It was a power play. He wanted to send a message.”

“You mean—”

“Shhh,” I laugh, darting my eyes left and right. “Dare not say his name.”

“Cecelia, this isn’t funny. I looked into him. He owns half this town, including the hotel I’m staying at.”

“The police too. And I’m aware. And I asked you specifically not to do that.”

“So, you are aware Exodus Inc—”

“Very.”

“He’s a bigger player than Jerry was.”

“Operative word for Jerry being was,” I counter.

“I don’t trust him,” Ryan grabs my elbow and escorts me to the parking lot.

I sober. “Neither do I.”

“Then why are you poking this bear?”

“I told you, he owes me.”

“He had you thrown in jail. I don’t think you should plan on collecting.”

“I will. Don’t you see it’s working?”

“Yeah, I can see how you would think that,” he snaps sarcastically.

“Tobias is a different animal. But I need you to trust me.”

“This town is starting to freak me out.”

“Feeling eyes on you everywhere, huh?”

“It’s not funny.

“Oh, but it is. I’ve got him right where I want him.”

“Only if that’s annoyed.”

“Exactly.”

“I really hope you know what you’re doing.”