Free A Midsummer Night's Scream (The Dulcie O'Neil Series Book 7) by H.P. Mallory Page B

Dulcie.
    “I want answers,” I said tight-lipped. I glanced at Judah and Ernie, but neither one said anything. They simply nodded their understanding before starting for the hallway, which was just as well because I wasn’t in the mood for any arguments. I had no clue where Wally was, but I also couldn’t say I cared.
    I strode up to the prison bars and gripped them with my hands, leaning into Jax’s cell as closely as I could. I wanted Jax to view me as his equal; and the only way to do that was by not showing any fear. I figured this was about as daring as I could get from a personal space standpoint.
    “I was wondering when you might visit again,” he answered in a charming tone. He took the few steps that separated us and stood in front of me, his cuffed hands wrapped around the bars beside mine. “It gets very lonely in here,” he whispered, looking me up and down as obviously as he could. Even though he was definitely trying to make me feel uncomfortable, it didn’t work. I was already fully prepared for it.
    I stared at him directly and boldly. “I’m sure it does.”
    His eyes centered on my lips for a few seconds before he smiled, his gaze finding mine again. “If only you’d allow me a conjugal visit.”
    “We are both well aware that’s never going to happen,” I scoffed, trying not to sound offended. I’d already prepared myself for the possibility that Jax would escalate his efforts to get underneath my skin. It was entirely up to me to maintain an air of cool confidence and remain completely in control, even if I didn’t feel it so much on the inside.
    “Is it so far-fetched?” he asked with a shrug. “I have been told that I’m a very handsome man.”
    “You shouldn’t believe everything you hear,” I answered with an unforgiving shrug.
    His smile broadened as he considered me with more interest. “And it probably goes without saying that I’ve had more than my fair share of eager women to warm my bed.”
    “I’m not here to debate whether or not you’re attractive or discuss how many bed partners you’ve had,” I replied, narrowing my eyes at him, “because I don’t care.”
    “You don’t care?” he asked, pretending to be taken aback.
    “No, I don’t.”
    “Then why are you here, Dulcie O’Neil?” he asked.
    I felt my heart catch as soon as I realized he knew my full name. There was no doubt now that he was bent on trying to throw me off. This shocker was just another example of that.
    “I’m here to offer you a deal,” I continued without a hitch.
    “Really? I’m listening.”
    “I expect you’re sick to death of whatever crap they’ve been feeding you here,” I started, studying him in a detached sort of way.
    “I would eagerly agree with that statement.”
    “If you give me at least some of the answers I’m looking for, I’ll spring for your lunch. You can order whatever you want.”
    He smiled, flashing his brilliantly white teeth. They contrasted nicely with his tanned skin and the brown stubble that was beginning to shadow his cheeks, jaw, and chin. Yes, he was decidedly attractive. No one could argue that point, not even me. Of course, it wasn’t like I was really focused on Jax’s looks though. I’d left my hormones at the door, remember?
    “Whatever I want, huh?” he asked, eyeing me suggestively again. His gaze descended from my face, settling on my bust, before landing on the apex of my thighs, where he stared at me unabashedly. I held my stance and didn’t flinch or wither. I’d prepared myself for this.
    “Whatever you can eat ,” I amended.
    He cocked his head to the side before his eyes returned to my face. “I have to admit, I’m quite partial to the taste of beautiful, young women,” he started.
    “And you can cut that crap out right now,” I interrupted in an icy tone. “I’m not interested.”
    “If I didn’t know better, I’d accuse you of being a lesbian.” Then he cocked his head to the side and was quiet for a