Page 85 of Ruined Vows
Emilia nods. “He’s patient. But that patience is about to turn into action.”
I say nothing for a long moment.
“Thank you.”
She studies me, wiping blood from her knuckles like it’s routine.
“Don’t thank me,” she says, voice smooth as glass. “Just make sure when the time comes, you don’t hesitate.”
She walks off without waiting for an answer.
And I stand there, watching the bruised guard crawl off the mat, already thinking of how I’m going to break Milan without ever raising my voice.
After I hear this information, I head to the armory, where I find my brother, who is methodically checking the scope on his long-range rifle like it’s the only thing that matters. He doesn’t flinch when I walk in.
“Emilia told me,” I say.
“Of course she did.”
He doesn’t look up. I step closer, slow and quiet.
“He thought you’d bite.”
“He thought wrong. He’s desperate.”
David sets the rifle down and finally meets my gaze.
“I didn’t entertain it. I didn’t argue. I walked away before I said something we’d both regret.”
I nod once. “Good.”
“But if you’re asking if Ithoughtabout it,” he adds, “then yeah. For a second.”
That hits harder than I expected. I don’t move, and I let him speak.
“Because I’ve watched you bleed for this family,” David continues. “And I’ve watched them question you for doing the same shit they praised Miloš for. That double standard? It grates.”
I clench my jaw. “So you understand why Milan’s talking.”
“I do. Doesn’t mean I’d follow him.”
“And if he pushes again?”
David smiles, humorless. “Then I’ll let Dragan take the shot. Or I’ll do it myself.”
I stare at him.
“You’re my brother,” I say quietly.
“Not just by blood.”
“No,” I agree. “By choice.”
He gives a single nod, then adds, “So whatever you do to Milan… I’ll back it.”
I exhale. Then leave him to his rifle and his rage. I’m heading home when I get a message from my man in Belgrade.
Radovan is gathering the old guard. He’s calling me soft. Weak.
