And every time it’s used, a debt is owed.A price is paid.A power shift is sealed.
Since the mayor used her influence to secure me a big win, I’m more thanmotivated to take her on a euphoric trip to nirvana.
Twice the win for me.Because Lucy Rainford?She’s a fucking bombshell.
~
AN HOUR LATER,Santo Luciani saunters into my office.
A year ago, he was a brownnoser in suspenders and bowtie.A disguise so good we never saw the mafia don underneath.Now that mask is off, he’s all Italian cut suits, wing tips, and menace.
“Aw, you came all this way just for me?I’m flattered,” I say.“Let me guess, I made the naughty list again?”
“Narcissistic as always.No, I’m not in Vegasjustfor you.”He unbuttons his jacket and lowers into the armchair across from my desk.“But yes, you’re in deep shit.”
See what I mean?This fucker never brings good news.“Of course I am.”
We belong toTHE O,the most powerful secret organization in existence.And lately, Santo has become the head honcho’s new favorite.Which is why he’s the one delivering this message.
“The short of it all?You’re on Black.”
Translation: I’m on the kill list.“Well, fuck.I’m all out of strikes, huh?”
“All out.”He leans back.“JB’s done with you.Thinks you’re irreverent, reckless, and a constant pain in the ass.Her exact words were, ‘He’s an insolent mongrel.’”
I let out a whistle.“Ooh.Be honest, she’s into me, isn’t she?”
He stares back at me.Stiff, stolid, impassive.
Man, I miss the old “Guy.”He was less of a tightass.
I’ve never been good at being controlled or following the rules.But no matter how high you climb, how much power you hold, there’s always someone more powerful.Someone to answer to.
Even if it’s death itself.The ultimate boss.
Fate accepted, I rock back in my chair, fingers laced behind my head.“How long do I have to get my affairs in order?”
There’s something else going on.THE Odoesn’t do death warnings.When they decide you’re done, that’s it.That I’m even getting a heads-up about it ishighlyunusual.
“You were supposed to be assassinated last night.”His tone is flat, detached.“But…don’t ask me what changed.All I know is, she called it off.Decided to throw you one last chance.”
What?Whothe fuckinterfered with my death?I’ve been looking forward to its glory for a while now.“Who said I wanted a chance?”
Santo blinks at me like he doesn’t understand the question.
Right.Not many people are as welcoming of “the big end” as I am.
Santo continues, “They’re putting hot coals under your feet.”
Of course.We’re all JB’s little playthings, dancing to the beat of her drum.“What does she want?Me on my knees, begging?Because that’s never happening.”
He shakes his head.“Not her style.”
Wouldn’t know what her style is.I’ve never met the woman in person.Have only ever seen her faceonce,when she randomly video-called me to tell me I’m a pain in the ass.Cold, curt, threatening, she made it clear that if not for my familial ties to their East Coast kingmaker, Torin Garza, she would’ve buried me a long time ago.
People in power hate what they can’t control.Despise those who stand unflinching and untamed.
I should know.
