Page 76 of King of Desire

“Thank you,” I answer, feeling slightly better. I wave goodbye, but as I make my way up the stairs, I hear footsteps behind me. I turn to see Killian and Gris at the bottom of the stairs.

It’s my turn to be confused. What does Killian wish to say and why is Gris with him? Did I just err?

“I hope I didn’t offend,” I lift my hands up. “I don’t mean to question Triston, I just… My brother Darius. I have to think of him too.”

Killian quirks one brow. “I can’t believe more women don’t proceed with caution when it comes to dating Triston. He’s got a terrible record. If I had a sister, I wouldn’t let her anywhere near a man like him.”

I relax, a smile playing about my lips at having the subject stated so openly. “Thanks for being direct.”

Killian laughs. “Most people hate it.” He points down at Gris. “I asked him to stay in case I made you nervous.”

That completely perplexes me. From the first time I met Killian, he’s been so open and honest. I really like him. “Why would you make me nervous?”

Gris grunts, but Killian only shrugs. “Listen, Honeyeh. We all got to watch you and Tris together at the benefit. Which is why we know, that despite yesterday, you and Triston work very well together.”

My mouth falls open. “Really?”

“But if things don’t work out, we all wanted you to know, Mason isn’t the only person you can come to for help.”

Gris raises his hand. “We weren’t sure if you’d prefer this information from Ryker and Rush, as they are single, or if the taken men would be easier to trust, but either way, just know you’re not alone. You can call on any of us.”

My heart melts and crazy emotion pricks at my eyes. “Thank you so much.”

Killian scratches at his jaw. “I also wanted to ask you about your past. Tris mentioned that your father disappeared.”

My eyes instantly drop. “I don’t like to talk about it. But yeah.”

“Do you know his name?”

“Darius Karimi Senior. Darius is named after him.”

Killian asks me several more questions, his interest making me nervous. “That’s all in the past,” I wave my hand.

“Of course,” Killian gives me a smile. “I’m sorry to pry.” And then he starts down the stairs again.

I turn back up, heading to the bedroom to put on my bathing suit.

But honestly, more questions than ever are swirling in my head. I’m in so deep with Triston, there is no avoiding heartbreak.

The promises Mason, Gris, and Killiam made are a big help. Because I have to think about how I proceed with Triston in a way that doesn’t hurt my brother.

I have to make the best decision for him, no matter what my heart wants.

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

Triston

I watch everyone leave,picking up my phone. I dial Dimitri, listening to the phone ring.

On the third ring, he picks up. “Triston.”

“Dimitri.”

“How was your evening?” he asks, the edge to his voice undeniable. “Satisfactory?”

What happens between me and Honeyeh is none of his fucking business. I’d like to tell him so, but I’ve got a job to do. “I’ve met with my partners this morning and we have an offer for you.”

“An offer?” He rumbles. “What kind of offer?”

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