Lib Novel Page 48
“A grand.”
I blink. One grand? That’s all she’s been making? Whoever is paying her that little is clearly extorting her. A grand is nothing for a fighter like her.
“Is that per fight or per day?”
She doesn’t answer me.
“We’re willing to offer you four grand per fight.”
Her arms fall lax by her sides. “Are you serious?”
“Deadly so,” I reassure her.
“What’s in it for you? Aside from the money aspect?”
She’s sharp. Sharper than I gave her credit for.
“I believe in trust,” I say carefully, studying her body language. “If you agree to this, I expect you to trust me, and that means with your identity as well.”
She shakes her head. “I’m afraid that’s not possible.”
“Why not?” I ask calmly. “If we’re investing money in you, then don’t we have a right to know who is working for us?”
She shrugs. “Sure, if revealing my identity wouldn’t put me in danger. But it will. And no amount of money is worth that.”
“Before you make a decision,” I say quickly, “take a few days to think it over. And if you are interested, this is where you can find me. Just ask for Alex Stone.”
I take out my business card and hand it to her.
Not wanting to overplay my hand, I turn around and begin walking away. As I go, I discreetly look over my shoulder and see her reading the card. Then, she pockets it.
My lips curve in satisfaction.
Chapter 10
Sophia Hope
I study the business card in my hand as I sit on the park bench.
Alex Stone.
I didn’t even know that was his full name.
Closing my eyes, I tilt my head back and let the cool breeze wash over my face. I feel so conflicted inside.
If it had been any other person, I might have considered that offer, but if I work with Alex and let him sponsor me, there’s a very good chance he will discover who I am—even if he agrees to my terms of anonymity. And at this point, I can’t trust him not to take advantage of that.
It’s a bad idea. But the money he is offering could change my life. I would be able to buy my freedom from the South Alliance much sooner than I expected.
Hearing the crunch of grass under somebody’s feet, I open my eyes and lift my head. The blonde man approaching me prompts me to emit a low groan.
Noah.
How does he always figure out where I am?
I don’t know what he wants from me. Every time I see him, he has something for me and is eager to strike up a conversation. Nobody’s ever given me this much attention, and I don’t know what to do with it. Anxious now, I quickly hide Alex’s card in my jeans pocket and give Noah a small smile as he reaches me. There’s no point in antagonizing him; I’ve seen his ugly side.
He gives me a questioning look. “Can I take a seat?”