Page 67 of Filthy Lies

“Fucking dandy.”

“The flowers would suggest otherwise.”

He runs a hand through his silver-streaked hair. “Details matter, Rowan. Every aspect of this ceremony sends a message.”

“About how particular we are about lilies?”

“About our ability to maintain standards despite threats.” He takes Sofiya from me, bouncing her gently.

My phone buzzes in my pocket. I pull it out to see a text from an unknown number.

Need to talk. Urgent information about Andrei. Meeting you would help. - Nat

My stomach drops.

“What is it?” Vince asks, noticing my expression.

I hesitate, then show him the text.

His jaw immediately tightens. “Ignore it.”

“What if it’s important?”

“It’s a trap.” He hands Sofiya back to me. “Andrei’s using Natalie to get to you.”

“Or she actually has information we need.” I scroll through the message again. “You said yourself that Andrei’s been suspiciously quiet.”

“Exactly why we shouldn’t take risks.”

“Vince—”

“No.” His voice hardens. “The christening is in three days. The Solovyovs are mobilizing. We’ve just established fragile peace with your father. This is not the time.”

I bounce Sofiya gently as she starts to fuss. “She tried to help me when I was kidnapped.”

Vince’s hands clench at his sides. “This is different.”

“How?”

“Because now, there’s an explicit connection to my father mentioned.” He steps closer, his eyes boring into mine. “This has his fingerprints all over it.”

I’m about to reply when Arkady appears in the doorway. “Sorry to interrupt,” he says. “But we have issues with the guest list. Two of the family heads are requesting additional security clearances.”

Vince sighs. “I’ll handle it.”

He gives me a look that says our conversation isn’t over, then follows Arkady out.

I stare at my phone again, Natalie’s message glowing on the screen.

She betrayed me for years.

She also might have information that could protect my family.

I text back:What kind of information?

The reply comes almost instantly:He’s working with Barkov. Planning something for the christening. I can prove it, but only in person. Please.

My blood runs cold. Barkov has been a thorn in our side. If he’s working with Andrei…

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