Chapter 7 - Hidden Knives
Viktor’s guards cocked their weapons instantly, the sound echoing like dry wood snapping. Silas moved to cover Val’s flank, but Val didn't blink. He only stared sideways at Sarah, his jaw slightly tensing.
“Lower the gun, Sarah,” Val said quietly.
“Viktor isn't deciding whether to help you, Val,” Sarah said, her voice devoid of any warmth. “He’s calculating the bounty Declan offered for your head. He has a tracker running on his wrist console right now.”
Viktor’s expression hardened, the mock amusement vanishing from his weathered features. He raised his hand slightly, halting his guards. “Who is this girl, Moretti? She sees too much for a governess.”
“She’s the woman who kept my daughter alive when my own men failed,” Val answered coldly. He stepped between Sarah’s barrel and Viktor, forcing Viktor to look into his eyes. “Make your choice, Rostova. Declan will come for you the second he finishes consolidating my assets. You know how he works. He leaves no witnesses and honors no pacts.”
Viktor stared at Val for a long, agonizing moment. The rain hammered relentlessly on the roof above. Finally, Viktor lowered his hand.
May you like
“Three rifles,” Viktor muttered. “And my fastest boat across the bay. The auction at the Continental starts in forty minutes. If you are late, you won't find Declan. You will find his new army.”
Before Val could nod, a loud metallic thud sounded from the exterior loading doors. A red flare hissed through an upper window, bathing the interior in blood-red smoke.
