Page 15 of Xavier

“I’ve got authorization to place bugs, but no in. I need you to do it. You told me he’s not home for a few more days. It’ll never be safer.”

V holds onto my hand so tight I’m afraid he’s going to cut off circulation. This is the first time I’ve seen him actually afraid. “We made it out clear. You take this opportunity. I can’t.”

“You owe me.” Maguire is really the king of significant looks.

“You’re going to bring that up now?” V glares.

“You’re not in prison, are you?”

They have a stare off, and Maguire wins. V slumps in his seat. “You watch her while I go.”

“I’ll keep her safe,” he promises.

And that’s my term to speak up. “I’m going with V.”

“No!” they say it in stereo.

Now it’s my turn to squeeze V’s hand. I ignore Maguire. He seems helpful, but he’s not the one that matters here. “We’re never coming back, are we?” It’s a scary prospect, leaving my life behind on the hope that this man is everything I’ve ever dreamed he was. Scary and so exciting I can’t wait.

“No,” V sounds sorry as he says it. “It’s too much of a risk while you’re dad’s free. And even after Maguire takes him down he’ll still have old enemies looking to settle scores.”

I’m never going to see my father again. I should feel sad about it. But that’s not my regret. “My mom left me some of her jewelry. And some sentimental things. I want them. You’ll be in the house with me. It’ll be safe enough. It’s still my home, after all.”

“I can grab them,” he offers.

“And waste time? It’ll be faster if we both go. You’ll keep me safe.” I’m sure of it.

I’m sure V is going to make another argument, that he’s going to waste more time. Instead he leans in and kisses me, then he turns towards Maguire.

“Give me the bugs. It looks like we’re both going.”