“It’s fine. Go.”
He nodded and walked out.
“What was that all about?” I asked her once the door closed behind him.
“Nothing.”
I got the feeling there was something up between her and Ranger but doubted either one would give me a straight answer about it.
“Let’s talk,” I said, motioning to the living room.
When she sat on the sofa, I took a seat in one of the chairs.
“Nick, I’m going to say this one more time and then that’s it. I got you away from Caruso, even worked it so the asshole went to jail with the help of Doc and the other guys. But now, I’m done. You’re safe, and I have my own life to lead.”
“I should never have agreed to come to California. I hate it here.” She studied her fingernails and then looked back up at me. “I’m bored out of my mind. I want to go home.”
“You’re the one who told me your husband had ‘connections,’ Nick. Have you forgotten that?”
“He’s in jail, Tackle. He can’t hurt me from there.”
“You don’t think any one of those connections would be capable of carrying out his wishes while he’s on the inside?”
She shrugged. “None of my friends are here, neither is my family.”
“Make new friends.”
“I’m not interested in new friends. I want to go back to Boston.”
“If that’s what you really want to do, I can’t stop you. But I’ll warn you, if you do, you’ll be on your own. No coming to me for help. I’m not doing this again, Nick.”
“I’ve made up my mind.”
“Okay, we’ll fly back together tomorrow.”
Nick smiled and clapped her hands. “Perfect.”
“One of the guys will bring you to the airport. I’ll meet you there.”
“Wait. Why do you have to leave?”
“I have other matters to take care of while I’m here. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
The smile left her face, and she didn’t clap again. I really didn’t give a shit. I’d talk to Doc, let him know she was leaving against my advice, and that would be that.
29
Sloane
“What about your place in Newton?” my mom asked when I told her and my dad that I wanted to move into Boston.
“The commute is getting harder on me. Besides, it’s month to month.”
My father hadn’t said much, which was never a good sign. What he did say, confirmed my dread.
“It’s time you told us the real reason, Sloane.”
I took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “You aren’t going to like this, and after I tell you, remember that I am an adult capable of making my own decisions.”