Page 26 of Filthy Twisted Devil

“I can send it to them myself, if you want.”

She sits up so fast, she practically slams her head into my nose. “How do you have their numbers?”

I shrug. “They texted me. I figured you gave them my contact.”

“Absolutely not. I wouldn’t do that to you. Oh, god, I hope Brinley gave it to them, because I don’t like to think about the alternatives. Hiring a PI would be insane, but I wouldn’t put it past them.”

“I don’t think you need to worry. The texts have been pretty normal. Friendly, even.”

“Elaborate,” she demands.

“No offense, Eden, but your energy is a little scary right now.” Her eyes are narrowed and flashing with fire, and if she suddenly started shooting lasers out of them, I wouldn’t be a bit surprised.

“I’m scary, but trust me, the Locke boys are scarier. What did they say?”

“Wade just texted me about making sure the Sundre liquor store gets stocked with Twisted Devil. He also asked if I’d be interested in a long-term feed-grain partnership for the distillery.”

“You don’t have to agree to anything. Seriously, no matter how much he threatens you. He can’t just insert himself into your business like that.”

“He’s not. It’s actually a good idea. We like partnering with small or bespoke businesses, especially Canadian ones. It’s part of our brand. Jasper actually sent me an article about brand loyalty and local partnerships that kind of sums it all up.”

“Jasper sends you articles,” she repeats, shocked. “And you read them.”

“Of course I do. They’re usually pretty interesting.”

“How many articles has he sent you?”

“Five or six?

She shakes her head. “I’m just surprised. They never reach out to anyone. I’m sorry. Don’t feel like you have to entertain them.”

“I don’t mind. Your brothers are interesting guys.”

“Well, you can send them the photo if you want, then.”

I start a group text, including the Lockes and Eden. I add the picture and caption it, “Exhausted from moving Eden’s roommate out.”

The responses come quickly.

Jasper

Make sure she installs a new deadbolt and changes the locks.

Reed

Yeah, because Brinley’s such a big threat. She’ll break in and steal all Eden’s smutty romance novels.

Eden

Shit, you’re right. I better get some new keys.

10

EDEN

Halloween

“Just go and talk to him!” Pippa tells Ryan encouragingly.