Thin Ice 5 - Checkmate by KR BANKSTON Read Free Book Online Page A

Jalen’s in now,” Ian told Ryan who frowned deeply.
    “ How the fuck that happen,” he asked irritably.
    Ian again explained the how’s and why’s with Ryan taking in every word.
    “ How is he doing,” he asked giving Ian a look.
    Sighing lightly Ian honestly told him the man was holding his own, but he wasn’t sure how much conviction he held in keeping the empire running.
    “ That’s why he should have stayed with her,” Ryan threw out regarding their mother.
    Ian then told him about the woman’s death and Jalen’s responsibility for it.
    “ Hmph,” Ryan returned. “I’m slightly impressed.”
    Ian chuckled and told him he was too.
    “ I can’t tell you how damned happy I am to see you sitting in that chair,” Ian told his brother the emotion overtaking him.
    Ryan smiled and rose once again embracing his brother, the connection once more restored. Finally ending the embrace, they gathered themselves and began talking again.
    “ You and KiKi back on track yet,” Ryan asked carefully knowing it was still a sore spot for his brother.
    Ian sighed deeply telling Ryan the whole sordid story, ending with the pending custody proceedings.
    “ Hmph, bet old boy ain’t happy about that shit,” Ryan mused chuckling slightly.
    Ian laughed as well telling him he wasn’t.
    “ So you finally get to see her tomorrow,” Ryan asked again as Ian nodded yes.
    “ We got this, Ice, don’t sweat the little shit,” he added seeing the worry on his brothers face.
    Ian smiled at the declaration, the reality that he had his big brother back once again bringing a smile to his face. Tomorrow was a new day and he would deal with whatever came their way then, for now he just wanted to enjoy the return of his best friend.
    *****
    Nikki knew she was looking good. The stares she got and the lame pickup lines added confirmation as she made her way through the club. Normally she didn’t do miniskirts but this one was tasteful, not trashy, so she wore it. The fire red skirt was tapered at the waist and form fit over her ample hips and butt. Her thighs and legs waxed smooth and glowing softly from the generous helping of body butter she’d used earlier. The black and red top she’d paired with the skirt was see through, the lacy Victoria Secrets lingerie on display as were her perfectly shaped melon breasts. Nikki finished the outfit with 3-inch black peep toe stilettos. She’d been to Utopia a few times, but it had never been bumping like it was tonight. Ice has done a seriously good job, she thought admiringly. Ray had instructed her to bring documents for the custody hearing to him, needing them signed tonight. Her boss had somehow managed to get before a judge tomorrow, even with it being the weekend, for a petition he was trying to get entered and enforced. If Ray could pull the maneuver off, Ian would get immediate temporary custody of Tajdra.
    “ Hey sexy, how about a dance,” the baritone voice spoke in her ear.
    Nikki turned to the sound expecting to find a beautiful Adonis on the other end. Much to her chagrin in his place stood an unattractive, ashy, troll.
    Sucking her teeth, Nikki rolled her eyes and turned away continuing her journey finally making it to the private hallway where the offices were. Carver greeted the sexy woman asking if she were lost. Nikki smiled slightly, identifying herself and stating her purpose for the visit. Carver apologized for not knowing and she graciously told him there was no need. Carver turned and motioned Nikki to follow him down the hallway toward Ian’s office. She took in the ambiance of the décor as she passed. As much as she knew Ian was a criminal in every aspect of the word, the man had impeccable taste. Nikki firmly understood how he’d managed to stay under the radar all these years and continue his illegal enterprises. From casual observations everything about Ian Bailey seemed legit. He wasn’t flashy or gaudy. He dressed well, but always within reason. He