Reborn In a Murderer’s Embrace (Dexter) novel Chapter 318

I was brimming with confidence, certain that if I could just get a face-to-face with the president of the All-Stars Consortium, I could bring him around to our way of thinking and secure a partnership.

Surely, that was a better bet than risking it all on a shaky deal with Henry.

Colin paused, his gaze lifting to meet Eric's, who had somehow materialized at the doorway without a sound. "Phoebe, let Eric handle this."

I hesitated, a knot of worry tightening in my stomach at the thought of Eric flying solo on this one.

"Trust Eric; he's a pro," Colin whispered, his grip on my hand growing firmer. "He's got this."

My eyes flicked to Eric, who gave me a reassuring nod, though a trace of guilt shadowed his features. He probably felt bad for not being able to protect me on Colin's behalf.

"Sir, ma'am, don't worry, I'll handle the charity gala," Eric said softly.

He remained just beyond the threshold, not stepping into the room, but I could see the bruises on his face and the scrapes on his arms.

Ever since Colin had been admitted to the psychiatric ward, Eric seemed to be running at full tilt. Though I didn't know what exactly he was up to, I couldn't shake the feeling that he and Colin were keeping too much from me.

Just like Julian had hinted, had the Langley family's fortunes been Colin's doing all along?

Was it true?

"We've only got this one shot, and it won't last long," I said, locking eyes with Eric again. I needed to be sure he could pull it off.

Eric nodded. "Got it."

Relieved by his confidence, I let out a breath. "Okay..."

"Get back to your room and rest. And what's this about you walking around, and why'd you go pulling out your IV?" The nurse burst into the room, her eyes widening in exasperation at the sight of the dried blood on Colin's hand.

"For heaven's sake, you're a grown man. Don't you know to call for a nurse before yanking out a needle?" She gave Colin an earful.

Colin held me close, refusing to let go.

"Come on, be a good patient. Go get your shot," I coaxed in a whisper.