Page 67 of Until Ace

“Girl, you didn’t even ask her to clarify,” Beverly softly admonishes me. She’s approaching me carefully, like I’m some wounded animal.

And it hits me, she was the first person who’s never asked anything of me. She and her circle of old lady friends who love to eat, drink, and play board games were the first ones who gave me the time of day for no other reason than to be present.

And by doing that, she gave me Ace.

Who did the same and much more.

Chapter 14

Mandy

The next morning, I’m standing in the kitchen, my breakfast half eaten, my coffee sitting forgotten, while I can’t stop staring at the texts I received.

Thankfully, Ace is in the bedroom, getting ready for his day after kissing me dizzy and finishing his own breakfast. When the coast was clear and I was alone, I decided to check my cell.

I’ve been extremely careful with my phone around Ace. Keeping it on silent, or just leaving it on the nightstand, screen down, so when it flashes I wouldn’t tense involuntarily, which is what happens anytime my phone gives any signs of life.

After Mom and Nicole left last night, the party came to a crashing halt.

All the women gave me hugs and soft words. The men gave their murmured support, but it was evident by the looks they exchanged with Ace that they intended on doing something about it.

Sure, I shared my troubles with Ace.

But I didn’t share all.

I know the name of the man who’s looking for my brother and basically demanding I sell my body to pay off Jim’s debt.

Anton Gorskiy.

The head of the Russian mob.

Just thinking about the name sends shivers down my spine. I can’t imagine what meeting him will bring.

Unfortunately, I have no choice.

Glancing at the texts, I know the time has come for me to deal with this.

Unknown

Not even your cop will save you.

Unknown

Your brother sold you to us.

Unknown

We will get our money’s worth.

Unknown

I think I prefer to take what you owe in flesh.

Unknown

Any day now, doll… I’ll come for you and take what’s mine.

“You okay, baby?” Soft words trail to me from the entrance to the kitchen. Shutting down my phone and putting it facedown, I look to my left and see Ace standing there.