Page 41 of The Ties We Break

Now it’s my turn to laugh. “Abso-fucking-lutely. Listen, Desmond. You are one of the most sick and twisted men I know, but you know how to come across as friendly, and I say that as a compliment. You know how to play the hidden psychopath game better than anyone. If you think this guy is playing you, beat him at his own game. You are Desmond fucking Doughty, and you are untouchable. No matter how much this guy has invested, or how powerful he is, he can’t beat you. A rich, old, English eejit, hiding behind his money, and all that high society bullshit, will not be your downfall. But for the love of God, do not get involved in women or kids. You have standards and are better than that. It’s not worth it. Okay?”

“Well, if that wasn’t the kick up the ass I needed. I’m gonna miss you, Dec, and I don’t say that to many people.” He holds his hand out, and I don’t hesitate to clasp it tight. You should never show hesitation with Desmond; it’s a sign of weakness. That was one of the first lessons he taught me. However, when he pulls me in for an awkward hug, it’s entirely unexpected. As he pulls away, I know there is one final thing I have to remind him of.

“Desmond, please do me a favour, don’t kill Kian. If you ever get to the stage where you think you want to or have to, please come to me first. He’s my brother,” I state, hoping to pull on the last bit of sentiment that he showed, but it quickly disappears. I know he isn’t the complete psychopath he appears to be, he cares more than he lets on, but I have no idea how far that extends.

“I promise, I will try not to kill him, at least not without your blessing first. I owe you that. Good luck in England, Kid. You better stay in touch.” With that, Desmond walks out of the office, and I can’t help but chuckle. He doesn’t do goodbyes, but I know, in his own way, that was his version.

Whoever this Whitlock guy is that has got messed up with Desmond, he’s in for a rough ride. If Desmond’s departing sadistic grin was anything to go by, he was formulating a plan, and it was a good one. Desmond will bleed Whitlock dry of everything he needs before casting him out like he never existed. If he sees Desmond as the weak fall guy, somebody hasn’t done their research correctly because they are very sadly fucking mistaken. Nobody messes with Desmond Doughty.

After that, I waste no time saying my goodbyes and heading to the airport. I’m counting down the hours until I see Belle again. When I get there, we pick up the keys to our home. I can’t wait for her to see it, particularly the library. Then I can’t wait to christen every fucking room in the house, at least twice.

Moving to England to be with my Belle is undoubtedly the best decision I’ve ever made. Who knows what our future holds, but for once, I am very fucking excited to find out.