Page 14 of Deceptive Desires (The Syndicate #2)

Roman

I park my black Porsche in the back lot of The Syn Den reserved for employees.

I use my key to enter through the employee entrance and make my way into the club. A few workers spot me and throw a ‘hey, boss’ my way, and I give them a nod of acknowledgement.

I don’t need my employees to be my friends. I don’t want them to be. They need to fear and respect me, so I won’t sit around gossiping with them. But I also won’t be rude.

As I make my way through the empty club, I make note of who on my team is working security tonight. I find my head of security, Drew, and pull him to the side.

“What’s up, boss? Didn’t know you’d be observing tonight.”

“I’m not here to work. I’m bringing my woman. I want everyone to know she isn’t to be touched. I won’t be leaving her side, so no need for extra security on her, but keep all entrances safe. I don’t want anyone uninvited here.” He knows what uninvited means.

No one who shouldn’t be on our territory can be here tonight. Despite being at peace with everyone, the Bratva, Mafia, Irish Mobs, Cartels… I won’t take any chances.

“Got it, boss. Can I get a name and picture to pass around? And should we get her on the VIP list?” He doesn’t question the unusual request.

I’ve never marked a woman as mine before. But that changes now.

“No VIP treatment for her nor me tonight.” She doesn’t know who I am, and I intend to keep it that way.

He starts to open his mouth, but the glare I shoot him shuts him up.

“Yes, sir.”

“Her name is Cecilia álvarez Rivera. Five foot seven inches. Latina. Long, dark wavy hair. Lean build. Brown eyes. Soft features. Breathtaking smile. Beautiful goddess. Sexy–”

Drew’s cough brings me out of my trance. I internally curse myself out for getting carried away.

“Here’s a picture of her.” I show him one I took when I was watching her through the yoga studio window.

I cropped it so he could only see her face and not the skintight, sinful outfit she’s wearing or her flexible pose.

“I’ll text it to you. Make sure the bouncers and security know she’s mine.

And make sure they know no VIP treatment for us. Tonight, I’m just a customer.”

He nods gruffly then turns to inform the men.

I survey the room one last time to ensure everything is how it should be.

I go back to my car and head to my penthouse. I need to get ready before I go to her place. I plan on following the girls to make sure they get here safely.