Despite his restraint, I know exactly where we are. Vixe is many things but he’s not stupid— he knows handing Baze over costs him face but not handing him over costs him more. At the end of this, Baze is going to walk out that door. That’s just how it goes.
“Last chance, Strout.” Vixe calls down from the porch.
“Bring Baze out.” I call back. “Or we settle this the old way, according to the terms of our truce. You and me, your choice.” I spread my hands. “I don’t mind either way.”
Silence stretches again and Vixe’s jaw works. Then he turns slightly and says something low toward the door behind him.
A few seconds pass, the door opens wider and Baze steps out.
His hands are clenched at his sides, looking just as f****d as he always does.
Vixe motions him towards me. “Don’t cry for nob
