Page 72 of When We Fall: Part One

“Perhaps you need a little more. I’ll provide for another shipment of weapons. No monetary charge to you if you agree. In fact, I’ll provide any kind of weapons you want. Even design something new for you. All you need to do is say yes. This contract will extend for however long you remain married to my daughter.”

I ground my teeth and looked to Enzo.

I knew this was a hell of a deal, but fuck no. Not at the risk of hurting and losing Rosalie. There was no way in hell I’d marry Celeste.

“Ethan isn’t interested,” Enzo said, his voice tight. I knew what sort of deal we were turning down. I glanced to Celeste and gave her a disgusted look. She only fluttered her lashes at me and licked her lips.

Fucking gross bitch.

“My dear, it would seem Ethan isn’t available,” Vander Veer said. “Perhaps Cole could help?”

Cole’s cheeks reddened as he balled his hands into fists. “I’m sorry. I’m also unavailable.”

“Enzo? Are you certain you’re set on marrying the commoner?” Vander Veer looked to Enzo.

“I am,” Enzo said. “Perhaps we can discuss this more at another time, though. I’m sure there are other things we can barter for. More drugs, perhaps. A club on the west side? Perhaps both.”

“Thorn?” Vander Veer perked up.

“Yes.” Enzo smoothed down his shirt. “My father gave me that club, and it does well.”

“Oh, I’m aware. I’ve heard stories. I’d be interested in seeing the inside.”

“Absolutely. We can arrange a meeting,” Enzo said.

“Daddy.” Celeste stomped her foot.

“Don’t worry, pumpkin. I’ll let you come with us. Perhaps Lorenzo could show you around, too.”

Enzo inclined his head and gave them another tight smile. “Of course.”

“Then it’s settled. We’ll discuss this later. I’m busy for the next few weeks, but…” I tuned Vander Veer out as he prattled on about his shitty schedule. I opted to look around and noticed Celeste watching me.

Fuck, I hated her.

She was the equivalent of Juliet to me.

She winked at me before focusing on Enzo. I shook my head and met Cole’s eye. He gave me a look that said he was ready to go.

Thank god.

Several long, boring minutes later, Vander Veer and Celeste were escorting us to the door. Vander Veer walked next to Enzo. Cole was close so he could listen. I trailed behind stupidly, giving Celeste the opportunity she’d been waiting for.

“I’ll have you one way or another, Ethan,” she said softly as she fell in step next to me.

I said nothing, deciding nothing was the best course of action at this point. We were nearing the door. My escape.

I inhaled sharply as she wound her arm through mine.

I can’t fuck this deal up. Fuck. I hate this. I HATE THIS.

Trying to remain calm, I looked over at her.

“Don’t touch me.”

“Fine.” She released me and let out a soft giggle. “But I bet you someday I’ll touch you all over. When I do, you’ll beg me for more…Daddy. I heard you can take it like such agood little boy.”

My stomach churned at her words. Everett used to say that to me. That I was a good little boy.