“But they don’t even say anything. I only hear breathing.”
“You never prank-called someone before?”
“Never. That’s so mean.” She frowned as if appalled I’d ask such a question.
“It is mean.” I nodded, biting my tongue. Ava didn’t need to know I was part of the mean population who phoned innocent people for a laugh or out of boredom. Pre-teen girls did the dumbest things at slumber parties.
“You’re going to need to replace the tire.” Ire lumbered toward us. “What the hell did you drive over to put a huge gash in it?”
“I didn’t drive over anything.” I hopped off the barstool. “What kind of gash?” I had a sick feeling in my stomach. First the weird calls and now my tire. It totally sucked having an eventful life.
“It’s about two and half, maybe three, inches long.” He spread two fingers apart as an example.
“Oh my gosh,” Ava said. “What do you think could’ve done that to her tire?”
“A knife. I’ll have Grizz check the security footage to see if any teenagers were dicking around in the alley.”
“That’s a good idea.” I nodded but still felt off. “Kids tend to get wild as the school year comes to an end.”
Ire grunted, taking Ava’s hand. “You ready?”
“Do you want us to wait around until closing? We don’t mind.” Sweet Ava, I adored her.
“It’s just stupid kids. I’ll be fine.” Even though there were no more appointments scheduled for the remainder of the day, I had to stay until closing.
“I’ll tell Grizz to keep eyes on you until closing.” Ire took his phone out of his back pocket.
“Thanks.”
“Okay then, see you tomorrow.” Ava issued a small smile as her man led her out the back.
“Yep, have a good evening.” I waved to them.
There was nothing for me to do. Nothing to dust or straighten on the desk or the merchandise corner. Ava kept everything neat and tidy at all times.
At least it wasn’t dark out and wouldn’t be until after seven.
I tried not to let my imagination go nuts. The tire and phone calls were only a coincidence, not the actions of someone with malicious intent.
Don’t go there, lady.
Clearly, I’d watched too many horror films. I eyed the monitor. If Ava had seen someone messing with my car, she would’ve told me. Hell, she would’ve called Ire right away.
You’re fine. It’s just a fluke.
Only one more hour to go…
5
Cobra
“What’s your beef with my biscuit?”
I raised my gaze to Lady M, then dropped it to my fist. “Sorry.” I opened my hand to let the crumbs fall onto my plate and wiped my palm on my jeans.
“Every day, I find you deep in thought with your jaw tight. Each time you tell me, it’s club business. I’m no fool, Abe.”
“It’s Cobra.” I hated being called my birth name by anyone who wasn’t Karma.