Page 111 of Devil's Claim

“Don’t test me, Eduardo. Not under any circumstances. The concept that blood is thicker than water doesn’t apply to the Torres organization. I’d keep that in mind if I were you.”

“Are you threatening me,amigo?”

I grinned as the passenger side door was opened so I could step out. “I don’t need to make threats. You should know that by now. I make promises. And they are always kept.” I stepped out, buttoning my jacket. It would seem the event was black tie. They’d deal with a black suit.

Eduardo said nothing as we made our way to the front door. I nodded to Benito. He was to wait outside, ensuring our visit wouldn’t be interrupted.

At least the brutal bastard had made certain we were on the list of invitees.

While we’d coordinated how our presence would go, my goal seemed entirely different than his. Eduardo simply wanted to remind the powers that be how dominant his empire was in the country. He felt the need given the recent attacks he’d suffered, his own product ravaged. Dozens of smaller and even more violent cartels had sprung up over the last few years.

I’d seen him work. He’d yet to expand his operations, concentrating on cocaine and nothing else. The crackdowns were also rampant, law enforcement absconding with their share, not for the good of the people, but to line their pockets.

The glorious life of crime syndicates. I chuckled to myself as I swept the room with my eyes. As I made my way to the bar, I noticed Diego holding court with several men, most of whom I’d either met or had performed extensive research on over the course of the last few months. A smart man paid attention to his competition and the six men standing in a tight circle were definitely major players in the sale of illegal drugs.

With a whiskey in hand, I made my way through the crowd, taking my time to stop and have limited conversations with other guests. A woman approached, swaying her hips as she did. Diego’s wife Sasha was beautiful, but considered a trophy wife to those who knew their relationship best.

I turned my head, finishing a discussion about real estate prices, the high-end real estate agent attempting to lure me into purchasing a piece of property he assured me I would adore.

“Thank you, Jorge, but I’m happy where I live,” I told the man.

“You should come see the property,” Jorge insisted. “I can make you an extremely rich deal.”

“Rich? I’m curious about the previous owner.”

He laughed and noticed Sasha’s approach, immediately tensing. Diego had made it perfectly clear his wife was off limits. Meanwhile, he regularly visited one of several mistresses. The double standard was alive and well.

Another reason I loathed the pompous man.

“Let’s just say he won’t be needing his property for twenty to life.” He laughed nervously and shoved his business card into my hand. “Call me. I will make it worth your while.” He abruptly walked away.

Sighing, I crumpled the card in my fist, shoving it into my pocket.

Sasha noticed. As soon as she closed the distance, she took the glass from my hand, enjoying a sip. Her eyelids were half closed, soft mews escaping her lips. Evidently, she thought I was interested.

Not a chance.

For all the horrific deeds performed in my life, I was a one woman kind of man.

“You must be Kruz Blanco,” she purred.

“My reputation precedes me. And you’re Sasha Garcia.”

She took her time returning my drink, allowing our fingers to touch. I didn’t mind the overture since I was aware Diego was paying close attention.

“Let’s just say you’re the most handsome man in the room and I’m pleased you know my name. Perhaps you’re the only good-looking man. Plus, I understand you’re a formidable businessman.”

“Someone has been telling tall tales,” I told her.

Her laugh floated through the room, although I could easily tell it was forced. She was purposely annoying her husband. When she placed her hand on my arm, Diego shoved his waythrough the crowd in our direction. I couldn’t have planned the introduction better myself.

“Don’t annoy our guests, my lovely wife,” Diego said as he eyed me with a hostile glare.

“I’m not bothering him, Diego. I’m simply providing a welcome since you’re too busy with your… friends.” She laughed again, the sound more bitter than before.

He tilted his head slightly. Since he was shorter by several inches, I sensed his annoyance was even greater.

“Sasha. If you’ll excuse us, Mr. Blanco and I have some business to discuss.” Her insistence on meeting me had actually done me a favor. Now I wouldn’t need to barge in on a conversation.