Chapter 17
LUCAS
“It was a good pitch, but a fifteen-million-dollar marketing campaign may not sit well with Xander.”
Glenda Tram, Creed Brothers Incorporated’s director of finance, laughed. “Well, Mr. Creed is known for his frugality.”
Lucas chuckled. “That, my dear, is an understatement.”
Though his little brother did enjoy the finer things in his personal life, he pitched every single penny when it came to business. His ability to manage company expenditures was invaluable.
Anna, the young waitress approached with a smile. “Can I get you guys anything else?”
The Italian restaurant was just below his office. He and his associates lunched there at least three times a week, and Anna was usually their server. She was an incorrigible flirt. At least, when Bella wasn’t around. “No, thank you, Anna. Just the check, please.”
“Coming right up.”
Glenda grinned. “She sure does have a thing for you.”
Lucas chuckled. “It’s the suit.”
Glenda raised a brow. “Yeah, okay, the suit.”
“What time is your meeting with Xander?”
“Two O'clock. And I’m leaving nothing to chance. I’m bringing backup.”
Lucas smiled. His curiosity was piqued. “Who, may I ask, is your backup?”
“Well--”
“Creed!” someone called from across the restaurant.
Lucas looked around for the source and turned right into the barrel of a gun.
Before he could flee, a shot rang out. Heat pierced his chest painfully enough to knock him out of his seat.
He felt the blow to the back of his head as it hit the floor, but that was it.
After the pain was numbness, and then… nothing.
The world around him faded into darkness.