CHAPTER SIXTEEN

"Mike, what a wonderful surprise!" smiled Patti. He patted her ass, kissing her in front of her friends.

"I was worried when I couldn't find you. A few of the residents said you all were coming here. They're all just scammers out to take your money," said the man. "Don't waste your money or your time, baby."

"Scammers? That's something you should know a lot about, right, Mike? Even if we were scammers, which we are not, we're not killers," said Ruby. Mike laughed, bending over the table.

"Watch your mouth, old woman." Mike felt someone at his back and turned to see the massive blonde man with silver at his sideburns. He had piercing eyes that seemed to suck out his soul.

"That is my woman you speak to with such disrespect. I would be cautious if I were you, young man," said Sven.

"She shouldn't be telling lies," said Mike, taking a step back.

"I ain't lyin'," said Ruby. "You're a dangerous man, and you damn sure don't mean to do good with this poor woman. Hide your money, honey. Don't let him near it."

"Let's go, babe. I'll drive you back home."

Patti stared at him, then back at her friends. She didn't know the woman at all, but what she'd said resonated with her. Mike had been married twice, inheriting all the money that his wives possessed.

"You go ahead. I think I'll stay with the girls."

He looked as though he wanted to kill her. Literally, his fists were clenched, and his teeth were grinding together. Sven took a half step toward him, and Noah and U-Jin stood from their tables. Today was not the day to be alone.

"Okay. Okay, babe. You have fun with the girls. You and I will talk when you get back."