Page 15 of Risking it All

“Another old fashioned,” Manny stated as he set my drink in front of me.

“Thank you. You can add her drinks to my account.”

“There’s no need. Whatever you think you’re going to get is out of the question.”

“All I wanted was your name, mama.”

“It’s Iris.” She shrugged.

“Consider me satisfied.”

I watched her plump lips wrap around the rim of the glass as she took another sip of her drink. Once she placed it back on the counter, I spoke up again.

“You don’t look like much of a gambler. What brings you to Cashville, Iris? You here for a bachelorette party?”

“You’re right. I’m not much of a gambler, but no, I’m not here for a bachelorette party either.”

“Well, are you at least enjoying the atmosphere? Cashville has more to offer than gambling. There are spas, shows, restaurants, and a night club that hosts comedy shows. Cashville has something for everybody.”

“Dang, you sound like the spokesperson.”

I laughed. “Not exactly. I just know a lot about the place. I want everybody to enjoy it as much as I do.”

“Well, I’m not here to enjoy myself. I’m looking for someone,” she revealed.

“Someone in particular or just someone in general?”

“His name is Reed Fuller. He’s supposed to be one of the owners.”

“What kind of business do you have with him?” I asked.

“I need some advice.”

“Why don’t you call him?” I suggested.

“It’s been a while since we’ve spoken. I don’t have his number. Plus, it’s a matter that should be discussed face-to-face. I figured I would come here and see him since I keep hearing so much about this place. Last I heard this place was his whole life. So far, everyone just keeps telling me he’s out and will be out for a while.”

“Two things can be true.”

Reed was out of the country jet setting for his so-called paternity leave. Who ever heard of some shit like that? His ass had taken three months off. So far, we were only in week two. I didn’t have to explain that to a woman who didn’t seem to know his wife had just given birth to their second child. Apparently, she wasn’t in the loop.

“You’re right. Now I feel like I wasted a trip,” she said, picking up her second drink and quickly draining the glass.

“Well, as far as I know, he won’t be back for a few months. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself while you’re here.”

“Let me guess. You want to help me with that.”

“I feel like I’m a good man for the job. I’m head of security here. I can get you into anything your pretty, little heart desires.”

“Even that comedy show? I tried to get a ticket, but they were sold out.” The way her brows lifted eagerly made me want to give her anything she wanted.

“Absolutely. Are you ready?”

“I might as well be.”

I stood from my seat and extended my hand to her. She swayed slightly when she stood. I quickly moved closer and placed my hand on the small of her back. The dip in her back made me swallow. Fuck, she was sexy. I loved a woman with curves. Her shoulders dropped slightly before she lifted her eyes to me.

“In case you couldn’t tell, I have had a little too much to drink.”