Page 42 of Rule
Pulling a gun out of the holster at my thigh, I loom over the nearest man who is still daring to breathe in my presence. Aiming at his forehead, I pull the trigger with a quickbang,deafening me in this environment. Pausing for only a second to recall shooting Andrew James and how much easier this was. How far I’ve succumbed to the darkness inside me thanks to the men who love me.
“Next,” I mutter, aiming and firing again.
Bang.
Bang.
Breathing heavily, I survey the battlefield, my body aching from the numerous blows and injuries I have sustained. The six men of the Inner Circle lie dead around me, and despite the pain, I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I faced them all and emerged victorious.
I'm alive; they are not. The metallic scent of blood fills the air, a grim reminder of my victory and at what cost.
"Scarlet," Max’s voice in my ear brings me back to the present. “You did it.”
“Yeah.” Staggering out of the warehouse, I collapse into Tristan’s arms, always there to catch me when I fall.
"Are you okay?" he asks gingerly, touching a gash on my arm, wincing at the sight.
"Nothing that won't heal," I assure him, though I can't deny the throbbing pain. "I won.”
“You sure did, dirty girl. My cock thanks you.”
Snickering inappropriately after killing six men, I start to laugh hysterically. “Pity I couldn’t have just shot them all, to begin with.”
“Ah, but where is the test in that?” Adam asks. “It’s easy to point and shoot. You needed to prove yourself worthy.”
“Yeah, I know, but still.”
"Let's get you patched up," Miles insists, carefully supporting me as we make our way out of the battlefield.
"Scarlet, this is only the beginning," Max whispers, his eyes filled with promise and desire. "You will lead this Secret Society into a new era."
“Rest,” I gasp, the laughter being the end of my energy resources. “Then food, drink, and sex.”
“Done,” he murmurs, pulling me to him with a kiss on my temple before lifting me into his arms and cradling me as he carries me back to the car while Hugo calls the clean-up crew.
As we leave the scene of my victory, my thoughts race with possibilities and challenges that lie ahead. A small, triumphant smile creeps onto my face. I know I am ready to take on whatever comes next. With Max, Tristan, Hugo, Miles, and Adam by my side, there's nothing we can't overcome.
"Bring it on," I whisper, steeling myself for the future and embracing the power that now surges within me. Together, we will change everything.
ChapterTwenty-Four
Scarlet
The cool evening air of Liverpool envelops us as we sit on the rooftop terrace of our favorite bar, two days from the battle that gave me rule over Origin. The city's lights sparkle in the distance, casting a dim glow on the faces of Max, Tristan, Adam, Miles, and Hugo as they each take their seats around me. Our eyes meet, filled with determination and passion for the task ahead. I slept for two days straight and while my side and leg hurt, I feel refreshed and exhilarated.
“Congratulations, baby girl,” Max says, clinking his glass against mine, a wide grin spreading across his face. The sound of our champagne flutes sends tingles down my spine.
"Thank you, Max," I reply with a smile, my heart swelling with happiness and pride. My eyes travel to each of my lovers as they join in the toast. Their joy and relief are evident, each one expressing their support in their unique ways.
"Scarlet, we're so proud of you. You've come so far," Tristan murmurs, placing a tender kiss on my forehead. His sea-green eyes sparkle with certainty, and I feel a sense of belonging unlike anything before.
"Cheers to our fearless leader!" Adam jokes, raising his glass high before taking a swig. He winks at me, and I giggle.
"Here's to new beginnings," Miles adds, his voice soft yet determined. His fingers intertwine with mine, sending a warm wave of reassurance through my body.
"May we always stand by your side, Scarlet," Hugo finishes, his deep voice resonating through the room. His strong embrace envelops me, making me feel protected and cherished.
As I look around at these incredible men who have chosen to love and support me, I am overcome with gratitude. But there's a nagging thought at the back of my mind – a reminder that our journey together is far from over. We have much work ahead of us in rebuilding Origin and healing its divisions.
