Page 67 of Revenge

“I want to see her. Take her to the apartment.”

“Do you really think it’s a good idea?”

“Then take her to yours.”

“All eyes are on us. Focus on my niece.”

“I want to see her.” I stay quiet. “You better not tell me she’s gone. So help me, I won’t be merciful. I don’t care that you’re my brother.”

“She went into hiding.”

“Good. Give me the address.”

“Viktor—”

“What are you hiding?”

“She’s gone. Max took her. That’s all I know right now.” A necessary lie. He doesn’t need to know where she is or that I know. Another lie I hate telling.

“You better turn every rock. I want her found tonight.” He ends the call.

As I enter my apartment, my cell rings. The screen reads Ava.

“How are you?” I greet her.

“I’m fine. I’m not going home. I’m safe.”

“I know. Don’t go home. I need you to stay where you are. Don’t tell anyone where you are. I have a few things to work out. You will be safer there.”

“Do you know where I am?” she asks me.

“Yes.”

“Of course you do. Viktor?”

“No. Only Marco and I know. The fewer people, the better. Call me if you need anything or if something changes.” She’s quiet. “Ava?—”

“Okay.”

“Actually, shut off your cell. Unless you need to speak with me, keep it off,” I instruct her.

“Okay.”

“Good. Stay safe and out of sight.”

“Thank you.”

“I told you, you don’t ever need to thank me.”

“But I do. I can’t imagine the price you’re paying. I’m sure Viktor is giving you hell.”

“Don’t worry about Viktor. Let me worry about him. Cell off when I end the call.”

“Bye, Oliver.”

“Bye, Ava.” I end the call.

I’m walking a fine line, but I will do whatever I have to. I’m going to protect Ava from everyone, including from my brother, no matter the cost. I want my nephew to have a better life than me. I don’t regret being a Manarch, but I want more for him.

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