Page 29 of King of Malice

The air rushes from my lungs as gratitude makes my shoulders sag in relief. I can’t get close enough to touch my father. I’m too known. But Killian...

My eyes close as relief washes through me. “Thank you.”

“What are the rest of the terms?”

“I want one casino that connects to your tunnel. That will be enough to sustain me. In exchange, I’ll sell you the other two at a bargain price.” What I want is a legitimate source of income that can provide for my family. A casino on the tunnel will do just that. “And I might need a few phone taps. I can’t do them, but I know you can.” I look at Jake who still appears skeptical as he looks back at me. But my attention is diverted again.

“And the arranged marriage?” Ryker asks. He’s been silent this whole time, his gaze watchful as he listens. It’s a smart move toremain quiet. He’s learning about me, while giving nothing away about himself.

I should make a point to get to know him. He’s the man who is positioned to be my brother-in-law.

“Stands.” I say, holding the counter, and giving him a nod of acknowledgment. “But as you meet my family, be warned, my father should not be underestimated and if we fail, my sisters need to be safe.”

I still don’t know how I’ll protect Sasha, but Katarina will be safe married to Ryker Smith.

The pieces are beginning to fall into place.

“Do you have any idea how Killian is going to gain access to your father?”

“He’ll come as soon as he learns about the sale of the casinos. And when he does, we had all better be ready.”

CHAPTER TEN

Ava

I partially waketo the sound of a bell dinging. My eyes flutter as I try to remember where I am and what that noise might be.

But it doesn’t happen again, I’m warm and comfy and I immediately drift back to sleep.

I have no idea how much time passes, but at the feel of arms sliding under me, I wake with a start, my eyes flying open.

Dimitri’s face is right next to mine, his dark eyes assessing me.

“What are you doing?” I gasp, stiffening away from him.

He tips forward, his lips brushing mine. “Hush, milaya,” he whispers. “It’s just me, you’re safe.”

The sound of his voice relaxes me, which is when he pulls me into his chest and lifts me out of the chair.

I should be afraid, but somehow, Anna being sandwiched between us, makes me feel completely secure as he straightens up, taking me with him. “Where are you taking me?”

“To bed.”

“But…” My brow scrunches. “She needs to be upright. You said…”

“I did. And I appreciate what you’re doing for her, but you need your sleep too. You’re already doing two jobs. You don’t need to be a parent too.”

I sink deeper into his embrace. “I didn’t actually mind. Sleeping with her is better than having a weighted blanket.”

“Careful,” he rumbles, giving me a light squeeze.

“Careful with what?”

“Keep talking like that and you’re going to end up with the job full time.”

I smile. “I already have a job.”

“I didn’t mean the nanny position.” He starts down the hall, entering Anna’s room first.