"What the fuck is this about?" Rosco hauled me behind him as he aimed his gun toward Bobby. His broad shoulders blocked my view. "You should know we aren't alone here. Best just surrender now."

"Fuck that. I make the demands here, and when I get through with the filthy omega dancer, Cord won't even recognize him. Then maybe he'll learn to do as he's told and stay the fuck away from the Ferrinis."

Rosco scoffed, not the least bit concerned for his own safety. "That's what this is about? Two families are getting along now, and you can't take it? Who the fuck are you, anyway?"

I peeked around Rosco’s shoulder to make sure Passion was alright. "Bobby, let Passion go. Please.”

From the tension in Rosco's shoulders and the way he shielded me from view, I didn't think he appreciated me chiming in.Oh well…

Bobby huffed and the barrel of his gun pressed harder against Passion's temple. "Don't worry about who I am. What's important is that the Ferrinis and Mennettis break their alliance. Restore balance."

"Restore balance? What the fuck are you talking about, you crazy fuck!" That outburst came from Passion. “You alwayswere a creepy fucker. Leering at the dancers rather than paying attention to the clients.”

“Shut your whore mouth! I don't give a shit about some omega slut’s safety. My only job is to make sure my boss is happy.”

“And just who is your boss?” Rosco asked.

A shot rang out and echoed through the space. The birds that were making a home in the nooks and crannies around the ceiling squawked and flew. “That was a warning. I’m making the demands here!” Bobby had bigger balls than I thought.

Fuck. Rosco made it clear that he wouldn’t risk my life for Passion. And that meant he was just as likely to let Passion become collateral damage in this stupid standoff.

“Maybe your boss would like to know that Cord is just using the Ferrinis. We have no loyalty to them. They’re a means to an end, just like everyone else in this business. Make an offer and we’ll cut ties.” My offer was all bullshit, and I wasn’t even sure if the lingo I used made any sense, but Bobby lowered his gun just a fraction of an inch.

It was enough.

15

CORD

The call from Rosco about Avery going to rescue a friend had taken me by surprise. Something didn't sit right with me. Not listening to my intuition had led me astray in the past, and I would not make the same mistake again.

Avery wasn't under house arrest. As long as he had guards with him, he could move freely for the most part. Obviously, I would not let him go clubbing or anything like that, but if he wanted to leave the house to go shopping or visit a friend, I would not stop him.

Avery stayed home most of the time. I sensed that my mate was the homebody type who would much rather cozy up by the fire rather than hit the latest club. Though, I knew that he missed his friends. When all of this was over, I hoped he could reconnect with them.

Then Passion called. Avery would not let a friend suffer if he could help.

Concern for my omega had me distracted enough that I cut my day short. I planned to send a team to back up Rosco, but Iwould just go myself. I had a guard with me who could help. "To the old train station, Davison. As fast as you can get there," I commanded once I was in the back seat of the car.

"You think there will be trouble, boss?" Knox asked. He was one of my trusted guards, and one of the best marksmen. Which I would need if this ordeal went south.

"I don't know. I'm not taking any chances."

"Rosco will keep Avery safe," he said.

"I know." Still, I was worried. While we drove, I took the time to inspect my weapon and make sure my clip was full. Knox did the same. Between the two of us, we had enough weapons and ammunition to come in guns blazing if the need arose.

I was probably overreacting, but I wasn't backing down now.

The only vehicle in sight when we arrived was the town car. A good choice for Rosco to have taken for this excursion. The air was still and quiet as we stepped out of the vehicle. Knox already had his gun drawn. His gaze scanned our surroundings, ever alert.

"They must be inside." My gut twisted because something didn't feel right.

The old train station had seen better days. It had been a while since I had been there. It was a great place for less-than-legal dealings. More than one person had met their death behind the walls.

"Stay sharp," I said.

Knox nodded, scanning the area while I pushed the door open.