“I want Darius dead, and he knows this. Thus, regardless of whether I actually do anything, Darius will do everything he can to start trouble with me. If that happens, I’ll still be as good as dead, so I’d rather meet up with him now and take matters into my own hands.”

With that thought, Wilson balled his fists tautly, shut his eyes, and steadied his rapid breathing.

…

At the hotel, Darius’ reaction was different; he was utterly relaxed after responding to the text. He sat on the sofa, crossed