"I don't believe in coincidences," Hanzo replied, studying Jessamae intently. "You mentioned that Nomer first contacted you yesterday?"
Jessamae nodded, her brow furrowing. "It's just so peculiar."
"It seems like he's done his homework," Hanzo remarked, taking another sip of sake. "Do you think so?"
"Then it's settled," Hanzo stated firmly, his eyes glinting with determination. "It wasn't an accident. You will come to stay with me, at least until this matter is resolved."
"Hold on," Jessamae replied cautiously, not wanting to get her hopes up. "Are you saying you're going to help me?"
"On the condition that you agree to my terms," Hanzo clarified.
"What exactly do you have in mind?" Jessamae asked, her curiosity piqued.
"I'm going to need your assistance with him," Hanzo said, pointing to Jasper. "I won't lie, it will take time. He's like a virus, getting worse over time."
Jessamae glanced at Jasper, her concern evident. He returned her gaze with a ravenous grin and blew her a kiss. "Can't wait, Sweetness."
Turning back to Hanzo, Jessamae still felt uncertain. "I won't commit any illegal acts if that's what you're asking."
"Why, I'm offended, Miss Suarez," Hanzo replied, his mouth widening into a sly smile as he lit a joint with a flick of his wrist. "This is a regular establishment, just like any other. We always do our best to follow the rules here."
The recent events flashed through Jessamae's mind, and her heart began to race. This was dangerous, she knew it.
Her lips pressed together, her voice filled with caution as she glared at Hanzo. "If I agree to this... whatever this is, we're even? You'll help me?"
Hanzo nodded, his gaze unwavering. "For how long? What if I don't find out who hired them in three months?"
He considered her question for a moment. "Why don't we discuss that tomorrow? I'm exhausted."
The room fell silent for a moment until Jessamae broke the tension. "Alright. It's a deal."
She extended her hand for Hanzo to shake, and he took it. His large, calloused palms were warm and strangely comforting. A surge of electricity shot through her, the lingering sensation of his touch still igniting a fire within her. "I'm going to regret this, aren't I?"
"Probably," Hanzo replied with a cheeky grin. "But that's half the fun, isn't it?" He shook her hand twice. "It's a pleasure doing business with you, Sweetness."
Following Hanzo, Jessamae trailed behind him towards the sleek black limousine parked behind The Lounge. Her suit, drenched from the rain, clung to her body, and the biting cold made her shiver uncontrollably. She couldn't help but let out a gasp, the freezing temperature taking her by surprise.
As they approached the limousine, questions flooded Jessamae's mind. Why would a biker like Hanzo own such an extravagant establishment? And how did he come to possess a limousine? Did he perhaps engage in some illicit activities?
However, her attention was quickly diverted as a woman emerged from across the road. The street lamps illuminated her figure as she hurriedly unlocked her blue hatchback. It was evident that she was an exotic dancer, with her blonde hair and tall, voluptuous frame. She wore a black mini skirt, matching pumps, and a white tube top. Jessamae's eyes caught sight of a tattoo adorning her left shoulder—a trio of blue butterflies. It was quite artistic.
Jasper whistled loudly, trying to capture her attention. "Hey there, Sugarplum!"
The woman sneered and flipped him the bird. "f**k off, would ya!"
Observing the dark circles under her eyes, Jessamae could tell she was exhausted, likely from working another long shift. She knew all too well what that felt like.
Discreetly, she whispered to Jasper as she climbed into the car and tossed her wet clothes onto the floor. "Don't do that. Women don't appreciate that kind of behavior. Leave her alone."
She expected Hanzo to join them in the limo, but he waved her away, slammed the door shut, and leaned against the open window. "I wouldn't have to if you would just agree to a date, Jessamae. Come on, just one date. You can choose between steak or seafood."
Jasper nodded solemnly. "I have a broken heart to mend. I'm going to drown my sorrows in alcohol and gambling until I pass out."
"Alright, buddy," Hanzo said, winding up the window abruptly, cutting off the conversation. "Just try not to get yourself killed."
Jessamae shook her head in disapproval at the two foolish men. They never seemed to learn.
Hanzo instructed the driver to turn on the heat, and she immediately felt grateful for the warmth. Exhausted, she sprawled herself horizontally on the opposite seat, her vision blurred by the dim lighting. "Is it alright if I just... rest here for a while?"
Hanzo takes a leisurely sip of his sake, his gaze fixed upon Jessamae as he reclines in a stretched-out position, a peculiar darkness now ablaze in his eyes. "Do as you please, for I couldn't care less," he mutters with a hint of disdain.
Jessamae curls up on her right side, her eyelids fluttering shut as the embrace of sleep begins to envelop her. "Is your cantankerous nature a constant, or is today an exceptionally special day?" she inquires, her voice laced with a touch of curiosity.
"It's a gift that keeps on giving," Hanzo retorts, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Is your sarcasm a permanent fixture?" Jessamae counters, her patience wearing thin.
"Do you always bombard me with countless questions?" Hanzo fires back, his dry tone revealing his annoyance.
Jessamae clamps her mouth shut, frustration mounting within her. This guy is insufferable. She tucks both arms beneath her breasts and pulls her frozen knees towards her chest, her irritation reaching its peak.
Suddenly, Hanzo's words slur as he speaks. "I've been contemplating," he begins, his speech slightly slurred. "Perhaps it would be wise for you to remain by my side for the entirety of our agreement."
Uncertain if he is still harboring anger towards her, Jessamae dismisses the thought. Who cares, anyway? It dawns on her that he is proposing she live with him for the next three months. Well, she'll see about that!
"Maybe you should consider sending your family away, if it's possible. Perhaps to another state, for their own safety," Hanzo suggests, his concern seeping through his words.
Jessamae nods her head without opening her eyes. "I'll explore the options and see what can be done."
Sleep soon claims her, and the next thing she becomes aware of is a jarring poke to her cheek.
"We have arrived," a deep voice chortles, confirming her suspicion that it's Hanzo.
Jessamae pushes Hanzo's hand away and reluctantly opens her eyes, wondering how long they have been on the road. It feels like only ten minutes. "Alright, alright, I heard you," she grumbles.
The gates swing open, and Hanzo rolls down the window, allowing the cold, salty air to rush into the car.
The limousine glides silently down an extensive and winding driveway, cutting through a vast expanse of land adorned with towering trees. The distant roar of crashing waves reverberates in the distance, so thunderous that it feels as if the beach is just within reach.
Jessamae blinks awake and forces herself to sit upright, eager to take in the breathtaking sight before her.