Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem ( Elysia and Tarquin) novel Chapter 887

Keith knew he was in a tough spot. Even with his own skills, there was no way he and his crew could take down the mysterious gang in such a short timeframe. It seemed like the only option was that he had struck some sort of deal with them.

"What did you promise them to get them off our backs?" he was asked, his tone icy, "It's none of your business."

Elliot, frowning slightly, couldn't help but interject, "Keith, you know as well as I do that those people are bad news. Making deals with them is playing with fire."

Keith's gaze softened as he looked at Elliot, "Who said anything about making deals?"

Elliot paused, then countered, "How did you manage to negotiate without offering them something in return? They wouldn't just agree to your terms for no reason."

Clearly, they had been after something valuable from Keith, something he was unwilling to give up. Not because of any sentimental value it held for Tarquin, but because Keith saw this 'treasure' as his own, not a pawn in their games.

"But now, suddenly, they agree with you and no longer want to use the 'treasure' for their schemes. You must have offered them something," Elliot reasoned.

The room fell silent, the brothers surprised yet somehow expecting this concession.

"But," Tarquin continued, "I have conditions. First, I want to send someone with the 'treasure' to ensure its safety and well-being. Second, we should be able to visit anytime, no objections. Third, this is your only chance to take the 'treasure' from under my watch. If it gets hurt or mistreated in any way, I'll take it back immediately."

Keith hesitated, considering the conditions. The first and second were tricky; having someone from Tarquin's side meant constant surveillance, like having a spy in his midst. And while he didn't mind Elysia or the kids visiting, Tarquin was a different story. The 'treasure', though fond of calling him daddy and Tarquin Mr. Handsome, made Keith feel threatened. He feared that prolonged contact would make the 'treasure' prefer Tarquin over him, especially considering their biological connection.