The Handsome Devil

Chapter 73 - Running in circles

"Who's that?" Deya hissed impatiently while eyeing the twiggy guy peeking from behind Dylan's figure.

It was enough that he called her for an impromptu meeting, increasing their risk of getting caught. But bringing over a stranger?

However, before she could unleash hell, the blonde quickly cut the distance between them, grabbing her elbow gently and leading her to the farthest corner of the closet.

"Please, let me explain" He whispered anxiously, apparently not wanting the man to overhear their conversation.

"You got 30 seconds" The girl returned in cold undertone, and Dylan let out a sigh.

"I know that we haven't discussed this--" He started only to be cut off.

"No, we haven't. Otherwise I'd tell you that bringing in another person is reckless" Deya blurted out frustratedly and crossed her arms.

"You're right" He quickly checked their companion over his shoulder before going on. "But I'm really convinced he'll help us move forward"

There was a minute of silence as they stared each other down. Nonetheless, Deya couldn't deny that their efforts led nowhere so far.

"How?" She mumbled lowly, taking another good look at the man. He was of average build, no strong facial features, and wore a casual sweater with jeans. All in all, not a thing about him stood out to her.

"He's an artist" Dylan followed her gaze, and she noticed the man shiver once he realised they're watching him.

"An artist?" She repeated in disbelief. Putting aside that he didn't exactly fit her image of one, she wasn't sure why they need him in the first place.

"I found him in the city sketching old historical buildings. No connection to Bulldogs whatsoever" Dylan mumbled under his breath, and the girl shot him a sceptical look.

"So, he'll draw a sketch of Connor's mansion and then what? You'll get it framed and hang it above your bed?" She spat out sarcastically, eyes finally returning to him.

"Well, the guy knows his stuff, he's been wandering the city for years" The blond quickly blurted out. "Chances are he'll recognise it"

"Those are some thin chances" Deya noted bitterly and ran her fingers through her hair.

"I know. But once we have the picture, I can give you more relevant photos to screen through. And.. I don't know.. maybe post it on the city's online forums to see if someone knows where it is?" His eyes were looking at her hopefully, and she forced herself to swallow her frustrations for the moment.

"Fine, I'll do it" She took a step forward, but Dylan quickly blocked her way.

"Just one more thing" He started hesitantly, struggling to find the right words.

"What?!"

"He's a... strange fellow. Gets spooked easily" He noted lowly while taking another short glance over his shoulder. "I really need you to be your sweetest self when dealing with him. No raising your voice, sarcasm, or just giving him a hard time in general, ok?"

"What am I, some kind of shrew?" It was hard to hide the offense from her voice, but as they fell into silence, she had to admit that his reasons were justified. It's not like I've been a ray of sunshine recently.

"Just making sure" The man eventually murmured and turned on his heel. Nonetheless, this time it was Deya stepping into his path.

"You know, since you went behind my back, AND seem to have plenty of demands, I think it's only fair I asked something in return" Her eyes narrowed at the man as if daring him to refuse.