Page 165 of Filthy Lies

“Yet they’re both here, celebrating our engagement.” Anastasia’s perfectly manicured hand covers mine. “The world is changing, Rowan. Enemies become allies when faced with a common threat.”

Before I can respond, the study door flies open. Vince emerges. Our eyes lock across the room, and the cold dread in my stomach crystallizes into certainty.

Something is very, very wrong.

61

VINCE

I’ve been bleeding out for weeks, slow and steady, watching my life force whisk away into the hands of the FBI.

But tonight, the hemorrhage might finally be stopping.

Carver stands across from me in my study, hands in his pockets like he owns the place. Like he ownsme.

The smug fuck has no idea what I’m capable of, even now, even backed into a corner with the ever-present threat of RICO charges dangling over my head.

I could snap his neck before he took his next breath. I could have his body dumped where no one would ever find it. I could make his children orphans with a single phone call.

For now, though, I wait.

“I’ve got to hand it to you, Akopov,” Carver says, sliding a folder across my desk. “Your cooperation against the Solovyovs has been extremely productive.”

I don’t touch the folder. “I fulfilled my end of our arrangement. Now, it’s your turn.”

“That’s why I’m here.” He smiles, which is an expression I don’t fucking trust in the least on his face. “The Bureau is prepared to modify our agreement.”

My pulse spikes, but I keep my expression neutral. “I’m listening.”

“The prosecution will focus exclusively on Solovyov operations and what’s left of Barkov’s organization.” He taps the folder. “In exchange, Akopov and Petrov legitimate businesses will be subject to strict compliance requirements, but no active investigation.”

“Define ‘strict compliance.’”

“Quarterly audits. Transparency in international transactions. No cash deals over ten grand.” He shrugs. “Standard operating procedure for legitimate businesses, really. I don’t foresee any issues.”

I slouch back in my chair, studying him. “And the wire?”

“No longer required.” He spreads his hands. “Consider it a reward for your enthusiastic cooperation.”

The relief that floods through me is intense.Free.Free to live my fucking life.

What a concept.

“What changed?” I ask, because nothing in this life comes without strings attached.

Carver’s smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “My superiors are pleased. And when they’re pleased, I’m in a position to be generous.”

I open the folder, scanning the modified agreement. It’s still a leash, but a longer one.

“I’ll need to consult with my lawyers,” I warn.

“Of course.” Carver checks his watch. “But I’ll need an answer before I leave tonight. The offer expires when I walk out that door.”

I stand, towering over him. “You crash my event, demand an immediate decision, and expect me to just roll over? That’s not how this works.”

“Actually,” he says, “that’s exactly how this works. I’m still the one holding the cards here, Akopov. Don’t forget that.”

My fingers itch to close around his throat, to watch the light fade from his eyes as he realizes his mistake. Instead, I pick up the folder.

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