Page 126 of Trace of Doubt
“Aria could belong to Chandler.”
“Clay, leave it alone. You’re beating yourself up for something out of your control. If Chandler is Aria’s father, it doesn’t make her any less your granddaughter. What’s important is getting her and Shelby out of this mess safely.”
“You’re going to a lot of trouble to help Shelby and this family.”
“Sir, I’m in love with her.”
He peered at me. “I’m glad she has you on her side. But I’m still head of this family, and I’m not spending another hour here.”
76
SHELBY
Aria’s first day at the penthouse showed me a teen who had no illusions about her mother’s evil nature. The girl didn’t visibly shed tears, but her eyes were red. Most of the time she stayed in her room. There I heard the sobs.
Marissa told me to ready myself for brunch, not a surprise since I’d already met Feng Liu. I chose a black sleeveless dress, and Marissa wore bloodred. Lee drove us to Stage7 restaurant. I found the meeting place risky. With all the happenings, why would my sister risk both of us being seen in a public setting known for catering to criminals?
“We leave our phones in the car,” she said. “The men have theirs.”
“Why when you know them?”
“You’ll find out. Do you drink?”
“Not anymore.”
“Good.”
Paranoia took hold, and I tamped it into place.
My sister never approved of spontaneity, and this morning had a purpose beyond meeting with the two men. If only I had the mental capacity to figure it out instead of faking confidence. One thing for sure, her reasons would benefit only her.
“Listen and learn.” Marissa tapped my arm. “Rudder will come on to you, and I need you to play along.”
At the restaurant, Lee stayed with the car, and we were ushered to the rear of the dining area. Heads again turned when Marissa walked past. My sister held a striking pose with her white-blonde hair and curve-hugging dress. She thrived on attention. Always had.
In a private room, Feng and another man drank amber-colored whiskey at ten thirty in the morning. Both stood and Feng introduced John Rudder to me, a sandy-haired man with boyish features and startling blue eyes.
“You weren’t kidding,” Rudder said. “Shelby’s gorgeous.”
I thanked him with my best “I’m impressed” smile. We were seated, and the games began.
Casual conversation dominated behind closed doors. A server delivered wine for all of us and took our food orders.
The talk continued during brunch until Marissa placed her utensils crosswise on her plate. “Ready for business?”
“You’re such a coldhearted woman.” Feng gave her a dimpled grin.
“But I have an affair with money.”
“And me?”
She patted his hand. “You are my priority. Oh, I’d like a word in private before we discussed John’s offer.”
“Take all the time you need.” Rudder waved them away. “Gives me a few extra moments to get acquainted with Shelby.” He opened the door to their small room and requested their server. She stepped inside. “I’d like more wine. My—”
“You’ve had enough,” Feng said. “We have business to discuss.”
“You’re telling me how much to drink?”
