B Clones (Clones #1) - Laurann Dohner Page 0,74
time. Dad thought it was important that I knew our community would stick together and protect their own. Neighbor justice. He couldn’t ever hurt her again, since he was dead.”
“The authorities never caught on?”
She shook her head. “He was served really strong liquor, instead of the watered down stuff the bar normally sells. Over a dozen witnesses swore he was downing shots like crazy to account for the amount of alcohol in his system, if they checked. Then they said he got mad because there was a line at the bathroom. He walked out the back door to take a leak and fell to his death. The bar is built at the edge of a cliff. The authorities basically ruled it an accident; a case of stupidity while really drunk.”
“I take it that wasn’t the truth?”
“He had some help going out that back door and walking too close to the edge.”
Blade nodded.
“Are you horrified?”
“No. It doesn’t sound like your people had much choice if they wanted to save that widow from possibly being murdered by her abuser.”
She nodded. “So, back on topic. You only told me about four of your fellow clones. Who makes up your six?”
“Rod. He was a close friend of Ram’s and they worked together. He really wanted off Clone World, because many of the female guests liked to harass him.”
“Why?”
“He makes the rest of us appear unattractive.”
Her mouth dropped open. “No way.”
He chuckled. “I’m secure with my appearance, but Rod is better looking than I am.” His humor faded fast. “I hope he’s not there when we arrive.”
“Why? Do you not get along with him?”
“No. I just don’t want you to be tempted to dump me to be with him.”
She gasped and then lightly punched his arm. “Never.”
He grinned. “It’s a real worry. If I were into men, even I’d want him.”
She snuggled closer. “Maybe I should worry about him tempting you then.”
He hugged her tight and inhaled her wonderful scent. “I only want you, Hailey. I’m very drawn to all your body parts.”
There was a sudden beep. She stiffened in his arms, but Blade just leaned forward, glancing at the small screen.
“We’re almost home. I need to let Big know we’re about to show up on his sensors, so he’ll know it’s us. I couldn’t tell him the name of our shuttle or give him a description. It wouldn’t be smart to do so.”
Hailey tried to climb off his lap but he held her there. “Stay.”
He adjusted her on his lap to free up his hands and sent a ping. Within seconds, Big responded by opening a signal.
“Dad, it’s your sharpest son. I’m going to be home real soon.”
“I’m glad to hear it.” Relief sounded in Big’s voice. “I wouldn’t have known if you hadn’t contacted me.”
“That should change at any minute.”
“Is the girl still with you?”
“She’s right here and can hear you.”
Silence met that announcement from Blade.
He sighed. Big was probably surprised he’d call with someone able to hear them speak. “She’s gotten to know me well and is looking forward to meeting you, Dad. It’s fine.”
“You told her about our family?”
“I did, Dad. It’s all good.”
“I see you.” Big paused. “Nice…”
Blade grinned, trying to imagine the other clone’s face while he was reading what the sensors had picked up. The Morgan was one of the best luxury shuttles. “Yeah. It is.”
“I’m going to really want to hear everything when you get home.”
“We’ll sit down and have a long talk. I’ll get you all caught up.”
“Just be careful coming in.”
Big’s warning made Blade tense. “Did you remodel?”
“Just a little, but it should be fine.”
Hailey glanced at him, frowning.
“It’s okay,” Blade whispered before he raised his voice to be heard by Big. “I’ll be careful.”
“Any surprises expected?”
Big wanted to know if there was a chance he was followed.
“Highly doubtful.”
“Good. See you soon.” Big cut the connection.
Hailey frowned again, staring at the windows. “I don’t see anything out there. Is it a black ship?”
“Go belt in. I’d rather be safe than sorry. Big warned me for a reason, but I don’t see what he’s talking about yet.”
She got off his lap and took the other seat, a confused look on her face.
Blade slowed their speed before turning to address her. “I’m going to be honest with you, Hailey. You’re not staying with me forever, so it’s best if you don’t know where we are. I’d already tinted the windows before you stepped into the cockpit. There’s something in front of us that you can’t see. I’m