Exit Wounds

Chapter 15/19

Veronica walked into the bar and looked around. She raised a brow at the dozen of men who stood as she entered, but not missing the other dozen or so still seated. Veronica wasn't alone and she certainly wasn't unarmed. She didn't bother to smile. "Mooney here?"

Deshawn shook his head from the table he was sitting at and stood slowly. He walked around his colleagues to get closer to her as he eyed her form slowly. "Damn, Baby. You look like you are about to start World War Three." He stopped a couple feet from her. "Is this because I called you a 'bitch'?" He licked his lips and gave her a predatory grin.

Gavi grunted softly and took a step forward, but Eli reached up with a hand. Eli shook his head and Gavi stepped back in line.

"Nah, Deshawn. This isn't for you. Is your boss here?" Veronica's mouth curved into a small smile. "I need to talk to him."

Deshawn smirked and stood right in front of her. "I can do anything he can do, Baby Doll." Dark eyes looked down over her petite form while he appraised her.

Veronica sighed and took a breath. She released a scream. "Mooney!" She stopped and grinned to Deshawn. "Oh, cover your ears." She was feeling a little wicked today.

Deshawn stumbled back as a winced crunched up his handsome features. He raised his hands to cover his ears. Dark eyes glared up at her.

"Deshawn, stop harassing Miss Mars." Mooney spoke calmly as he came out from the back. He walked past the large man guarding the door and put a hand on Deshawn's chest. "Seriously, man. She's not interested in you. Get over it."

Veronica allowed herself a small smirk, but remained quiet. She appreciated when guys understood her.

Deshawn mumbled as he walked away. He reclaimed his seat at his table.

Mooney turned his attention to Veronica and looked at her escorts. He casually pointed between Gavi and Eli. "Backup dancers?"

Veronica's smirk grew. "Boyfriends."

Mooney grinned wide and chuckled. "What can I do for you, Miss Mars?" He moved past her and walked to the bar.

"I need more boyfriends." She turned to follow him. Gavi stood back and watched the men sit and work, while Eli stayed close to Veronica.

Mooney stopped and raised a brow. "I think you only have so many holes." He smirked and chuckled at his own joke.

"I need more backup-" She paused and sighed softly. "A lot of backup." Veronica stepped forward. "I need a big favor and I think you need a distraction from harassing old ladies in the neighborhood."

"And why would I help you? Why would I offer up my men?" He walked around the bar and poured himself a coffee.

"I get calls for security all the time. What if I offer you and your men-" She glanced at Deshawn a moment before looking back to Mooney. "The ones who behave themselves, a chance to have a legitimate job. You still get to intimidate people, but those who threaten innocent people. You can make money and your mothers will be proud."

"My mother? Damn, Mars." He sipped his coffee. "Don't talk about my mama." He was hiding his grin.

"He's not going to help us, V. Let's move on to plan B." Eli sighed with a shake of his head.

Veronica nodded and shrugged. "Alright. Have a good day, Mooney." She turned and followed Gavi and Eli as they headed towards the door.

"Wait a minute." Mooney chuckled. He watched as the trio turned around and looked back at him with innocent looks on their faces. "You expect me to believe you are giving up? I know you, Mars. I know how you dig your teeth into something and never let go."