Quicksilver Passion (141 page)

She pulled out of his grasp and frowned at the marks on her arm where he had bruised her.
Where the hell have you been all this time?”

He went over and sat on the corner of her desk, noting the big safe behind it.
In prison, thanks to that half-breed you was so crazy about.”

Iron Knife?” She whirled around and her face told him she still loved the Injun bastard.

Yeah, Iron Knife. The sonovabitch cut me like a steer! Last time I seen him, he was riding away with that white gal that he was so loco over, Summer.”

Her pretty face turned ugly with jealousy.
Summer returned from Boston to him?”

Yep. If they’re both still alive, I reckon they’re together out there somewhere, him kissin’ her all over, his lips all over her—”

Stop it!” the Indian woman snarled at him.
Stop it!” Her rage was uncontrollable as she paced and cursed,
Well, Summer may have him, but I’ve got the last laugh! I made love to him just a couple of days before I saw you last Jake! I’ve got his . . .” A look of sudden fear came over her face.

You got his what?”

Nothing. I didn’t mean nothing.” She looked scared.
Okay, Jake—I suppose we might as well be partners. I could use a man’s help around here.”

He laughed.
And I want all the privileges that go with a partnership besides the money—any of the girls I want, whiskey. I’ve got some ideas that I think will increase your business.”