Page 47 of Auctioned Innocence
“Perhaps you’re right, Volkov.” He straightens his jacket, attempting to salvage his dignity. “Though I was merely…sampling the goods.”
“Like wine tasting,” I suggest coolly. “Small sip before purchasing bottle.”
“Yes.” His smile doesn’t reach his eyes.
I’ve made an enemy, but one I intend to eliminate anyway.
“Well said, Volkov.” Madame Rouge’s voice is ice cold as she materializes beside us, her red dress making her look like a wound in the cream and gold room. “Though perhaps our lovely Sofia needs reminder about proper behavior.”
I catch the threat in her tone, see Sofia tense on the platform.
Whatever “reminders” Madame Rouge provides, they’re not gentle.
They’re not something Sofia should endure.
“No.” My voice is hard. “If piece commands such price, best to keep…pristine. For serious buyers.”
I meet Rouge’s gaze steadily.
Let her see Dmitri’s cold interest, his obvious wealth, his implied promises of a record-breaking bid.
She’s a businesswoman first.
Profit will win over punishment.
Finally, she nods. “Remove Mr. Reed from the premises. Mr. Volkov is correct—we save such…examinations for after purchase.”
Sofia is led away, her eyes carefully avoiding mine.
But I saw her minute flinch at those last words.
At the implication of what awaits her if I fail.
My hands itch to tear the building apart stone by stone, to burn it all down with everyone inside.
Instead, I pull out my phone and type rapidly to Marco:Need full files on D’Angelo, Kovac, Martinez families. Connection to Anthony Calabrese. Priority. Also, Reed compromised. Potential threat.
I watch Reed being escorted out, memorizing his gait, his mannerisms, the way he favors his left leg slightly.
When this is over, Julian Reed will learn exactly what happens to men who touch what’s mine.
The thought brings me up short.What’s mine.
When did I start thinking of Sofia that way?
When did my duty to protect Marco’s sister evolve into this fierce, possessive thing that clouds my judgment?
A guard appears at my elbow, interrupting my dangerous train of thought. “Mr. Volkov? Madame Rouge requests your presence. To discuss private viewing arrangements.”
I smile Dmitri’s shark smile. “Of course.”
I follow the guard through opulent hallways, noting security camera placements, guard rotations, and potential escape routes.
The east wing has fewer guards than the west.
The service corridors would provide faster egress than the main halls.
The ventilation system might be large enough for someone Sofia’s size, if necessary.
