Page 10 of Outcast’s Return

“I dunno,” I replied. “It’s something about you. The way you look at me, I guess.”

“Angel?”

“It’s like a nickname. For you.”

“I hate it.”

I couldn’t help but laugh.

And so did Jolie.

But then we quickly realized where we were and what we were doing, and we immediately hushed ourselves.

“I’m going to call you that from now on,” I whispered in the darkness.

“Don’t you dare.”

“Yep, I’m gonna.”

Jolie blushed. The teal of her eyes was so bright, illuminated by the computer screen.

For a moment, I had completely forgotten about my grief and my pain and my defenses, and it was all thanks to her.

“Good night, Fabien.”

Before I had the chance to even say a word, Jolie leaned forward and gave me a peck on the cheek like it was a compulsion she gave in to, and then she quickly ran out of the office and back to bed.

And I was left sitting at the computer, frozen in time for a long moment as her footsteps faded away.

And then I slowly lifted my hand to touch my cheek.

3

PRESENT DAY

FABIEN

“Anyone but her.”

I storm out of the Castaways’ lodge and head straight back to New York City without a moment’s hesitation.

I’m not even thinking as I swerve along the roads back to the city. I simply put my foot on the gas and go. There’s blood on my hands, still lingering from the initiation fight, but I don’t give a damn. Not even as it dries on my knuckles, mixing with my sweat.

I am in shock, and for one hell of a good reason.

I never wanted to see her face again, and yet here she was, on her knees as a fucking test.

As I drive, I call Baptiste. He answers quickly. Good. I need to talk things over. I arrange to meet him in a bar near his skyscraper office. I don’t tell him why. I don’t dare let any goddamn emotion creep into my voice.

“It’s important, Baptiste. I need to speak with you. Right now.”

“I’ll be right there.”

Our brotherhood is strong enough that when one of us calls, we drop everything. No reason needed.

I get to the bar before he does, choosing to sit in a back booth away from anyone else. Away from any prying eyes.

Shit. I’m still topless. No wonder the staff is looking at me weird.