15
Theo
What Does Jericho Mean?
Isit in my car outside Club 188 for a full hour after being shoved onto a fucking fire escape. I expected Libby to be only minutes behind me. Seconds, even. Because that’s how long it would take me to get to her if roles were reversed.
What is taking her so long that I sit in my car long enough for my breath to fog the glass? And why the fuck can’t she be a known friend to Theo Griffin?
My phone lights up in the dark, the ringtone silent, but the vibration giving one fast buzz against the plastic console of my rental. My eyes remain on the club entrance, my stare focused on the very spot she’ll come out just as soon as she gets her shit together and leaves.
My phone vibrates again, impatiently demanding my attention.
Frowning, I bring it up to find Olly’s name and a message.
Everything good, boss? Radios are buzzing with a ruckus at the club.
When I don’t immediately answer, he sends a second:Griffin? Do you want me to stay on Kane Bishop, or come to the club?
Instead of replying in text, I hit dial and let my eyes refocus on the club entrance.
The call rings only once before he picks up. “Yeah?”
“Libby got busted up tonight.”
“What?” His keys literally rattle and turn in the ignition. Almost two weeks of watching her on my orders has made him somewhat invested, I guess. “She on the way to the hospital? I can meet you over there.”
“No, she’s okay. She’s got a busted face, black eye, split lip. Dude fucked her up pretty bad with one single swipe, but she’s okay.”
“You lit him on fire? Need me to take care of the body?”
This is why Olly is my man. My trusted compatriot after more than a decade of pure loyalty.
“No. I didn’t get to touch him, actually. Dude cop was all over him the second it happened. I’ve been with Lib while the medic was working on her face. She’s gonna be fine, but I’m bringing her to the hotel tonight.”
“Boss…” I can hear the smile in his voice. “You’re bringing herwith her permission, right?”
“Do you think I give a fuck if I have her permission? She has a concussion, which means either she goes to the hospital, or she comes with me. She’s not being given a choice.”
He chuckles. “Okay. What do you need me to do?”
“Maybe just stop at the store and stock up on painkillers, water, snacks. That sorta shit. Leave them in my room. I’ll take care of clothes for her. Then I need you to find out what Jericho means.”
“Jericho?” he questions. “What’s that?”
“Exactly. See what you can find out. I’ll connect with you in the morning. You can let me know then what you found.”
“You got it.”
“Great. You can do that back in your room. No need to keep watch tonight, I’ve got it.”
“Yes, sir. Talk to you tomorrow.”