Ыоуве Been Warned   ::   Patterson James

Then again, it could also be due to my feelinga bit awkward around him. I mean, he knows what’s going on. In a way, he’s a conspirator.

Michael says he trusts “the big guy” more than anyone, and by all indications, he has every reason to. Vincent has been his driver for over nine years. Not only does he predate me, he predates Penley.

Still, it makes me a little uncomfortable that he knows about us, that anybody does.

We ride the remaining blocks in silence, and my eyes take turns between the bracelet and the view out my window. The glistening lights, the people, the buildings – the city can be so hypnotic at night.

“Here we are, Ms. Burns.”

As he always does, Vincent steps out and opens the door for me in front of my building. I take his arm at the biceps and he guides me to the curb.

“Thank you,” I say.

“You’re welcome.”

Closing the door behind me, Vincent is about to climb back into the limo. I feel as if I need to say something, though I’m not sure what. Anything, I suppose, to ease the awkwardness. It’s about time we said something beyond general niceties.

“Can I ask you a question, Vincent?”

He turns to me. “Yes, Ms. Burns?”

I sputter for a moment. Then some words come. “Do you like your job?”

“Yes, very much so,” he says. “Mr. Turnbull is a good boss.”

“I’m sure he is. I know he trusts you a great deal.”

He nods.

“You’re pretty loyal to him, aren’t you?” I ask.

Vincent pauses for a second. He’s probably not sure where this is going, and to be honest, neither am I.

“Extremely loyal,” he answers.

“That’s important.”

“Yes, it is, Ms. Burns.” He folds his arms. “There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for him.”

“Good answer,” I say.



4

Chapter 19



I JOLT UP from MY BED midscream, but I’m holding it inside because I don’t want to explain myself to Mrs. Rosencrantz again. I’m soaking in sweat as tears race down my cheeks, the images still burning in my mind.

From the dream… which feels so incredibly real.

I’ve had it again, the exact same one. I don’t believe this!

It’s the next morning, but that’s all that’s changed. I even hear the music, that same song playing in my head. A familiar tune, though I still can’t put a name to it.

And the smell of something burning is present too. Just like at the Fálcon.