Page 176 of Ravaged Soul
“Shell corporation,” Warner volunteers. “Gunnar gave us the coordinates his research turned up, and the deed is registered to a nesting doll of companies. Sound familiar?”
“The Madden special.”
“Hey,” Blaine mumbles.
“It’s true.”
“Still, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more elegant system. No false identities or documentation required. The companies are registered as subsidiaries that collapse into one another. Beautiful.”
“Fucking lovely,” Hyland grunts. “Where the hell are you both?”
“Coming,” I whisper.
The backstreets form a winding maze of cobbled stone beneath tall apartment buildings, all sealed tight to protect against the chill. I’m not an expert, but I can appreciate the eclectic blend of Soviet and Scandinavian architecture.
Only a few brave souls dash down the deserted streets, likely headed for the market to stock up on weekly produce. No one stops me during the half-mile walk back to our base of operations, tucked into a private home paid for entirely in cash.
The world’s least friendly welcome party awaits outside, wrapped up tight in thick, all-black layers to keep warm and conceal their weaponry. Neither Axel nor Gunnar look happy to be stuck in each other’s company while playing guard.
“You two survived a few hours without killing each other,” I remark jokingly.
“Barely.” Axel kicks at a clump of snow. “You good?”
“Fine. Didn’t know that I needed a shadow.”
“Apparently, we all do.” He glowers at his twin.
In response, Gunnar bares his teeth.
“See what I have to deal with?” Axel rolls his eyes.
“At least he isn’t trying to stab you anymore.” I lightly tap his shoulder. “How’s the wound?”
“Burns like a bitch.”
“Be glad I didn’t remove the whole arm.” Gunnar’s smile is far too animalistic.
“Gee, thanks,” Axel drones.
A plane ride with the pair of them trying to avoid another stabbing or going on a shooting spree was difficult enough. For a while, it looked like Axel would be willing to rip his stitches for the chance to hit his brother again.
I’m still not quite sure what to say to Axel, but I make a point of dropping a chaste kiss on his cheek. He’s been isolating himself, staying away from everyone, since the revelation at the hospital. Considering his flat, lifeless demeanour, it’s taking a toll. I’ve never seen him so sullen.
“On my way up, team leader.”
“Bring the twins in too,” Warner orders into my ear. “Don’t let them kill each other.”
“Yes, boss.”
“Ember.” There’s a warning in his tone.
“Yes?” I reply sweetly. “Problem?”
“Just… get up here. For fuck’s sake.”
“On my way.”
Hah. He loves being called that.
