The Laughing Assassin [Assassin's Diary] (Siren Publishing Classic) (33 page)

“I think I found it.”

“Who is it? Cigar guy?” Jaden asked as her head turned to meet his.

“Yeah,” he whispered into her ear.

“So what should we do?”

“Nothing for now. We would attract too much attention if we walk away in the middle of our song.”

“Seeing as all eyes are on us, the only way we get more attention is to strip down and make love right here… So we’re supposed to let them go?”

“For now, yeah. Whoever it is, they’re not going anywhere for now. We brought everyone here for the reception, remember?”

“True.”

When the song ended, other dancers moved onto the floor. It was crowded enough that their disappearance wasn’t remarked on too much. But he could hear some of the guests say that the newlyweds were going away for a little alone time. The idea was funny. If he and Jaden were anything other than what they were, the assumption would be the truth. He would be taking his new bride somewhere that he could touch the soft skin concealed by her dress. Maybe even finger-fuck her to climax away from probing glances and prying eyes.

But on this occasion, Jonah and Jaden walked onto the sand and followed the footsteps until the pair found themselves far away from the twinkling lights of their wedding reception.

When they had almost reached the man who’d made the sandy imprint path, Jonah recognized him as Herbert Biormann. Biormann was a close friend of the family. In fact, Jonah and his siblings had all gone to prep school with Biormann’s children, Heidi, Elsbeth, and Ragnor.

He had shared many an occasion with the family at various holidays and special events. So much so that when the short list for the wedding was slashed, Biormann’s name had remained, despite the fact that Jonah didn’t invite one of his cousins to make the space.

Herbert turned to face them once they were within several feet of the older man.

“Congratulations on your nuptials.”

“Thank you, Mr. Biormann,” Jaden said, and Jonah knew she was giving the man the once-over.

“It’s no problem. In fact, I hope that you enjoy the gift I had arranged for you.”

“We haven’t had the chance to open gifts yet, but I am certain your gift will be of among the best tonight. Your taste is reputed to be impeccable.” Jaden spoke with familiarity, as if she had met Biormann before, but Jonah knew that she had never had that opportunity.

“Cat got your tongue, Jonah?”

“No.” He was looking closer, imagining Biormann with a black half mask.

“Well, I am an old man who likes the sand. Would you care to share a cigar with me?”

“It smells delightful. What is it?” That cigar blend smelled very familiar.

“Cuban, of course. You know I prefer the best.” The man did. As far as Jonah had seen, there was never anything less than best and rarest offered to Biormann.

“Well, Biormann, I’ll leave you to your delicious tobacco. My wife and I will be delighted for your presence once you join the rest of the party.”

“Thank you, Jonah, for inviting me. I know the list was kept very small, and this is an honor that I am very grateful to be a part of.”

“Certainly, you are as close to my family as one can be without blood. To not invite you would have been a mistake that I would have regretted.” And not for the reason the man assumed, either. Now that he had the identity of the slaver, the man was as good as caught, and he could finally retire altogether for a quiet life with his new wife.

Jonah clasped Jaden’s arm, and the pair walked back to the tents while he rummaged over the idea that he couldn’t shake loose. Biormann was the black-masked slaver, and he knew it.

Now it was just a matter of proving it.

THE END

Who is Jennifer? A thirty-something single? A mother of two of the most bratty, beautiful kids ever? Well, she is all of that and more. Jennifer is still fixing mistakes by day and falling in love with her novel heroes at night. She hates juggling, but she seems to be quite good at it, and as a consequence she has thirty projects going at once. Actually, she is quite bland and not in a mysterious way. Lately, she has found herself fending e-mails and writing as much as she can. Occasionally, she gets a wild hair up her keister and wears her afro out. As always, her fascination with procrastination keeps her from getting her website together, but one of these days… But if you would like to talk to her, feel free to send a shout-out to [email protected] (or send a request to the same e-mail on Facebook), and she is on twitter @wildinthewillow.

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