Page 86 of The Fire We Make

“Where did you say you were from Ms. Thibodeaux?”

“I didn’t,” Joy answered. “But I’m from Texas.”

“Hm,” he hummed, bringing his drink to his lips and eyeing her over the rim, no doubt filing that information away for later.

The conversation flowed easily after that.

Their conversation continued around Ace, with him inserting a few bits of commentary every so often to engage but otherwise, being content to watch her work.

He couldn’t help feeling a sense of pride watching Vincent eat out of the palm of Joy’s hand.

There she was.

The version of her he’d gotten glimpses of but hadn’t yet had the pleasure of seeing fully.

Confident.

Strategic.

Not dimming herself but completely in control and standing in her power.

Joy must have made a joke that he missed because he was pulled out of his awe by Vincent’s hearty laugh and Joy’s uncharacteristic one.

Ace couldn’t help the jealousy that rose in him, wanting to keep her smiles and laughter all to himself.

Joy and Vincent clinked glasses as they settled.

“You’ll do well in this city,” Vincent said.

Joy’s expression sobered slightly. “I’m not sure New York is where I plan to stay.”

“No?”

Joy shrugged delicately. “Home has a way of calling people back.”

Vincent studied her for a long moment.

“Well Ms. Thibodeaux, I have a feeling you’ll do well wherever you land. If you ever find yourself needing help navigating complicated situations in Texas or elsewhere…” he reached into his jacket and produced a business card, “…give me a call.”

Joy accepted it carefully.

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

Heat prickled the side of her face, and looked up, finding Ace watching her with searching eyes.

“Good seeing you, King,” Vincent extended his hand towards Ace. He took it, exchanging a firm shake.

“Always a pleasure, Price,” Ace returned.

“You know how to get in touch if you need me.”

Ace nodded. “I do.”

Once alone again, Joy turned to him, her eyes glinting with something that looked like triumph but the rest of her expression unreadable.

“Thanks for the introduction. I see someone else I wanna spea⁠—“

She began walking away but he tugged her back with a grip on her arm until their faces were inches apart.