Surprises

Part Thirteen

Sonny listened to Reynaldo's report of the night happenings. So far, there hadn't been any more sightings of Sorel's men, but Sonny kept his sense of relief in check. Just because the man was keeping a low profile did not by any means he had given up the fight for Sonny's territory.

Sonny turned away from the window to ask, "Have you seen Jason?"

"No, but I've heard from him," Reynaldo answered. "He should be up in a minute."

"Okay. If you see him, tell I wanna talk to him."

"Sure thing." Reynaldo moved to exit the penthouse and as he was leaving, Jason entered.

"Sonny," Jason greeted.

"Jase." Sonny gave his friend a smile, but when the younger man's expression remained stoic, Sonny's smile faltered. He was used to Jason's lack of verbal sentiment, but usually showed in his eyes. Not this morning. "Something wrong?"

Jason's jaw tightened. "Nothing's wrong. We just... We need to talk. Is this a good time?"

Sonny shrugged. "There's no time like the present." He pointed toward the living room. "Sit. Tell me what's up."

The two men sat. Jason moved to the edge of the sofa while Sonny relaxed in the easy chair. Everything about Jason's body language told Sonny that whatever was on Jason's mind was serious.

"I'm listening," he said when moments passed and Jason remained quiet.

"You're important to me, Sonny," Jason began. "You gave me a home when I didn't have one. I'll never be able to thank you for that."

His words made Sonny uneasy. He straightened and leaned forward. "You don't have to thank me. What are you really saying? It sounds like you're leaving."

"I am," Jason said. "I have to leave this life behind. I can't work with you anymore."

"Why? Is it Sorel? His threats?"

"Sorel?" Jason frowned. "No."

"If it isn't him, what is it? Do you want more? I've offered you your own territory. You can have that, Jason. Tell me what you want and it's yours."

Jason stood and shoved his fists into his pockets. "This isn't about territory. It's a change, Sonny. This isn't the life for me. Not anymore."

Sonny regarded Jason closely. A flush reddened the other man's cheeks and then, Sonny knew. "Ah, it's a woman. Robin?"

Jason shook his head. "No. Someone else. My work with you compromises her. She didn't ask me to quit. I want to."

"For her?"

"No. Yes." Jason took in a deep breath. "There was a time when I wouldn't have quit working for you for nothing. Not even Robin. I loved her and I care about her. I always will, but what I feel now is different. I can't have a life with her while working for you, and this time, I understand why. What we do...is dangerous."

"Yes, it is," Sonny said quietly.

"I want a family, Sonny."

"You should have one." Sonny stood and hugged Jason. "I won't make this harder than it has to be. Our enemies know you work for me. Going straight won't be easy. It could still be dangerous. You should take a guard."

Jason shook his head. "If I have a guard, it will be the same. I can go it alone."

"I just want you to be safe, Jase."

"I will be. You don't have to worry about me."

Sonny gave his friend a sad smile. "That's easier said than done." He went to his desk and pulled out his wallet. "Take this," he said, handing Jason a wad of cash.