Page 90 of Power
“Where?”
She regarded him for several seconds. Though her beauty held his attention, he was more fascinated with what she’d say. Would she come clean about herrealcareer or continue the personal shopper charade?
“We were both junior buyers at a major department store,” she said.
He bit back a smile. “Right, personal shoppers.”
So, we’re back to make believe.
He pulled the cake box over. “Which cake would you choose? What about Frederica?”
“The tiramisu was her favorite.” A rueful smile touched her eyes.
“She has excellent taste.”
“Had. Shehadexcellent taste.” A shadow fell over her eyes. “She’s not here.”
“She’s not here physically, but her spirit is with you.”
“I’m not sure I believe that.”
“Frederica will always have excellent taste.” After a beat, he asked her which cake she’d pick.
“Cheesecake. So, on the third night, we’d share the chocolate and pistachio swirl.”
“Would you feel better eating this now or should we freeze them?”
Her phone rang. She glanced over, perked up. “Excuse me.” She answered. “Simone Redding.”
“Red, it’s Providence Luck.”
“Let me take you off speaker.” She tapped the button, pressed the phone to her ear. “I’m here.”
He knew Providence was offering her the job. He sipped the hot drink, took another mouthful, and set down the mug.
After listening for a moment, Simone said, “A partner? That makes sense.” More listening. “Outside the organization? You mean, like, at the Bureau?” She furrowed her brow. “Monday? Absolutely.” She grew silent. “I’ll ride in with Slash. Thank you for this opportunity.” She hung up, heaved in a deep breath.
This was Luciano’s moment.
Tell her.
“Congratulations on your new job,” he said.
“How did you… I mean… that wasn’t?—”
“I’m your new partner, Simone. Welcome to the dark side.”
SIMONE
Simone wasn’t okay.That much she knew on her own, but she was hearing things. Strange words were coming out of his mouth.
Is he trying to mess with me? Is this a joke?
Luciano collected her hands in his, caressed her soft skin.
“I know the explosion wasn’t from a gas leak,” he began. “I know Frederica was on a mission to arrest someone making bombs. Maybe The Bomb Maker.”
“How do you know this? Is my phone tapped?”
