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“Block the permit, let the developer sit on it, and I’ll buy it for full price. And make sure it stays as it is.”

“You’re asking a lot out of me.”

“It’s right before an election.”

“There’s no one else on the ballot.”

“They could write someone in.”

“The people around here don’t team up for anything like that. A write-in is unheard of. I’ve got this in the bag.”

“Yet, you’re holding the forums according to code. You want this to be aboveboard so no one can stop you. And you’re clinging to the idea that you’ll win this election. You do want some public favor.”

“Some, but not all.”

“This is a more than reasonable offer.”

“Not for me. No thank you.”

“And you’re willing to let someone else own it and turn it into God knows what?” I leaned in and crossed my arms. “Are you benefiting from this?”

“That would be illegal.”

“Or is someone close to you benefiting from it?”

He paused, then laughed. “O-of course not!”

“Seems like someone is, if not you.”

“You’re gonna give the old man a heart attack if you keep that up,” a third voice chimed in. “Don’t do that to my favorite uncle.”

Son of a fucking bitch.

It was pure luck that they were both here on the same day. Still, I hated seeing his face, and had since the first time he spoke to Jade.

“Kevin.”

“You know my name?” He carried a bag labeled with the developer’s name.

“I looked you up the second you made a move on Jade.” I put my hands in my pockets and stood to my full height. “And I had a feeling you would show up, since I found your job as well.”

He laughed, seemingly unbothered. “Let me guess. You’re here as a favor to Jade. She really wants that land.”

“You seem to as well. Both of you.”

“I’m not letting go of it for anything. It’s mine.”

“You’re gonna piss off a whole town.”

“And?”

I wanted to strangle him.

“No one is more dangerous than someone with a grudge.”

“I’m not worried.”

“You should be.”