Mounting Danger

Chapter 10- You're Dating Him?

1. His work.

2. Family

3. Living situation

4. Get him to be vulnerable

I was going over the list of things Damon gave me. All appropriate questions to ask, he said. 

It was up to me to wean the questions in throughout the night so he doesn't get suspicious. I was also on high alert because he was able to find out who I was without me even telling him.

"It's almost time for my date."

"I'll drive you," Kayle said into a cup of water he was holding to his mouth. There weren't any objections. 

During the drive, Kayle gave me pointers on how to tie in questions so they don't sound suspicious and how to deflect if Ricky asked me something I didn't want to answer. Then, he went completely silent.

It gave me just enough time to begin panicking internally when the hotel came into view. I'd have to catch a cab from there to the restaurant in case Ricky had eyes around. We couldn't risk me being seen with a Hunter.

I stepped out of Kayle's car with a nervous smile. "I guess it's time for my date. I hope I'm not too rusty."

I expected Kayle to laugh, to make a quip even but he didn't. He took a shallow breath and let his face fall.

"You know I don't like the idea of you dating him right?"

"I don't either," I added, closing my door. I looked at Kayle from the outside of the passenger's window. "But it's work."

"Yeah, I know. It's all business to you."

To me? I wanted to question him about the little inflection in his voice but he pulled away before I got a word out. Instead of lingering on it, I summed it up to Kayle being moody. Maybe he was anxious or afraid for me.

But that was silly. He was a killer. You couldn't be one of those with a weak stomach.

I hailed a cab, its yellow exterior gleaming under the city lights. The driver, a seasoned local, raised an eyebrow when I mentioned The Golden Door. The city's whispers about its outrageous prices and opulent reputation were evident even in the cabbie's reaction. Regardless, it was Ricky's choice and I didn't really care since I wouldn't be spending a dime.

Arriving at the destination, The Golden Door stood like a fortress of luxury. Its exterior was adorned with golden accents that shimmered in the evening sunlight.

The entrance, marked by opaque glass doors held an air of exclusivity. Upon entering, the atmosphere shifted from the bustling city outside to a realm of refined elegance. The scent of fine cuisine intermingled with the hushed conversations of patrons, creating an ambiance of sophistication. The interior was a symphony of muted colors, plush furnishings, and subtle lighting. The hostess, a vision of polished professionalism, greeted me with a practiced smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. 

She went through the motions, greeting me with a painfully bubbly voice. I want to tell her she doesn't need to do that with me but I don't want to stand to in any way to anyone.  A few moments later the hostess escorted through the restaurant.

We weaved through the well-appointed dining area, passing tables with gleaming silverware and crystal glasses. She led me to a secluded haven at the far end – a large booth that shielded its occupants from prying eyes. I expected nothing less from a shady man like Ricky. I imagined he'd have to be careful everywhere he went.

I scanned the room before Ricky rose and pulled out my chair. I was looking for any man that could have been his security guard. When my eyes landed on a pair of muscular men sitting a few tables away I knew I found them. They were inconspicuous for the most part but looked in our direction every few minutes. I almost snickered. Ricky was a very cautious man.