Page 218 of Johnny

“But you’ve handled it well, Johnny. Much better than anyone expected. You kept your nose clean.

Stayed out of other people’s business. Didn’t get caught up in drama. For the most part, that is.”

I’m not sure what that last part means, but an image of me helping Logan escape the mob flashes to

mind.

But she’s right. I didn’t get involved. I hid up in my tower trying to pretend none of it was

happening.

“Of course, there was that little uprising at the Kane estate a few weeks ago. And Brooke Alder is

back, which you did not report. And it’s clear you came down here to find Charlotte Kane. But all in

all, Mr. Boston. You’ve done an exemplary job. Your brothers are a mess. One an out-of-control

addict, the other well… let’s just be frank here. Joey Boston is quite the little deviant. I’m sorry to

say—and let’s be clear, this isn’t my personal opinion—but polyamorous relationships are not what

the Way is looking for. Neither of them will ever fit in with our organization.”

I hold my breath for the next part. Because this is when I find out whether or not what I did to Jesse

and Joey was worth it.

“They are no good to us. So… we’re going to cut our losses with them. But you…” Her smile is

less tight now. Not genuine or relaxed, but just a little less tight. “You… you are the perfect example

of what a proper Way upbringing can accomplish.” She lifts her chin up and directs her gaze to Megan

next. “You as well, Miss Machette.” She glances over at her father. “I have to hand it to you, Monty.

Great job with this one.”

I exhale. And maybe, just maybe I allow myself to relax. Just a little.

“OK, enough of the small talk. Let’s get down to business, shall we?” She fingers the ribbon on the

folder, then unties it, and set it aside. “In here you will find your service record and our new offer for

you.” She hands the folder over with a bright smile. Nothing like the tight one she was flashing at Megan.

I take it from her hand. Holding her gaze the entire time. Then put it down on the plate in front of

me and open it up.

Squint at what I’m seeing. Which appears to be… some kind of contract. Only it’s written in…

Akkadian cuneiform. Like the tattoos on my arms.

I look back up at her. “Is this a joke?”

She laughs. “No.” She chuckles. Like this is such good fun. “I have been watching you your whole

life Johnny Boston. I thought you’d appreciate that. But the real contract is in there too. Just lift up that