Page 86 of A Taste like Sin

There’s a storm building on the horizon, evident in purplish clouds swarming the skyline.

“I’m willing to employ my…resources to attempt such an endeavor,” he warns. “Though I have some

work that must be done this afternoon.”

“Work,” I parrot. Disappointment unfurls in my chest before I can help it, erasing the tendrils of fire

sowed by his words. “After all this time, I still don’t know exactly what it is you do.”

“Sí.” He releases my hand, bracing his on his knees. “Though I’m sure your father told you all about

my career path.”

“But I want to hear it from you.” I reach for his hand again. It twitches as if he has to fight not to pull

away. “I’m sure there’s more to you than supposedly running a criminal empire and using art for

money laundering purposes.”

“Is there?” He tugs his hand free and stands, grabbing his cane propped against the end of the chaise.

“I need to leave earlier than expected, it seems. I’ll be back—”

“I’ve offended you.” Even if I have no idea how. “I’m sorry if I did.”

His footsteps slow and then increase as he approaches the door. “I’ll return later tonight if you decide

to humor my offer.Adios.”

I listen to the door close after him, unwilling to move from my slumped position. Already, the sunlight

is fading, surrendering to a darkening skyline.

The muted color scheme of my surroundings works to enhance the ominous aura tainting the

atmosphere. Alone again with my thoughts, I find it harder to ignore the most dangerous ones teasing

the edges of my psyche.

My father.

He’s dying.

He’s lying.

And without him, I have no one. Damien Villa may be a fitting diversion now, but for how long will

he stay? How long until I bore him? How long before I can no longer take the secrets evident between

us even as all other boundaries fall?

How long before I break under the pressure of it all?

I SHOWER AND LINGER NAKED IN THE BATHROOM OF MY PRIVATE SUITE. TO MR. VILLA’S CREDIT, THE

décor is complementary to the scarlet and ebony hues of the bedroom itself. A large sunken tub with

golden features and black marble flooring create a dark, luxurious oasis.