Page 112 of Claim Me
Seething, I glanced at Alessandro, his grin something I’d come to expect from the man. He loved discovering leaks and traitors more than the rest of us.
“I searched for any connection between the two men. It would seem they met in college and became close friends. And get this. Drake’s background is in accounting, where he worked with the Popov organization for several years. Just so you know, there are a few other names who might be participants in a long-standing ruse, but I haven’t had time to check on their identities. But I will.”
“Please do. I need a list of all those involved. They will be punished.”
Alessandro laughed. “With pleasure.”
Gritting my teeth, I glanced at the resort. “I want Drake found. If he’s inside this hotel, we need to find him. Take him to the executive suite once you do. I do not want the guests or the other employees disturbed.” At least with it being the middle of the night, there would be no administrative staff.
“Let’s go hunting, gentlemen,” Mikhail stated.
I wasted no time, moving through the casino with precision. We’d all been taught methods of tracking another human, some of our training handled by a former Marine skilled in the art of the hunt.
With my eyes constantly scanning the various rooms I walked through, I kept my cool, even managing to wave to a few employees who had no clue what was about to happen.
After ten minutes, I noticed Drake inside the smaller casino, walking the floor like the good little lap dog he’d become. Just for the wrong people.
Without hurrying, I moved closer, keeping my eye on him. Finally, when I was within a few feet, he noticed me. The instantflash in his eyes allowed me to see his fear. Maybe he noticed the look of rage in mine, my facial expressions often unable to hide my thoughts.
He backed away, realizing instantly he’d been cornered.
“Drake. You and I need to talk,” I said quietly, devoid of any emotion, which surprised the hell out of me.
“Yes, sir. What’s on your mind?” He was already fidgeting, darting looks around me as if searching to see if I was alone.
I took a few seconds to text Mikhail before answering. “Let’s head to the offices. Shall we? It will be much more comfortable there.”
“O-kay. Let me just check with the floor manager.” He started to walk away, but I stopped him, moving in front.
“I don’t think you want to do that. I’m sure you’d prefer we do this in private. Yes?”
Swallowing, he finally looked me directly in the eyes. “Of course.”
I allowed him to take the lead as we headed to the bank of elevators leading us to the fifteenth floor. The executive floor.
He remained quiet, but the smell of fear increased with every step he took.
My brothers and Alessandro fell in behind, leaving Ryker and the others to keep a close eye on the resort. We certainly didn’t need any unwanted guests to interrupt us. The element of surprise was one of the few things working in our favor.
Soon, Popov would know our intentions and if Marissa wasn’t found quickly, she’d be moved to a location we’d have difficulty finding.
The elevator felt suffocating, the mechanics of the older steel box taking a longer time to reach its destination.
When the ping sounded off, Drake finally exhaled. He was rattled.
Poor baby.
He did us the courtesy of unlocking the main doors, even flicking on some lights. As I walked in, I realized I hadn’t noticed the series of balconies located on the back wall of the main administration room. Moving around him, I headed to the door leading out, taking in the view.
I also hadn’t noticed the beautiful setting of the pool and gardens out back. All lit up even now, neon lights shimmering in the darkness.
A perfect setting.
Everyone remained quiet. This was my show and my will would be served. I took my time, unbuttoning my jacket and shoving my hands into my trousers before turning around. “Do you know why you’re here?”
He tried to act nonchalant, but his muscles had tensed to the point of shaking. “No, sir.”
“Come now, Drake. You must know that anything you put out on the internet whether by social media or through the use of email can be traced. At least if you have the right personnel.” I gave Alessandro a nod.
