Page 68 of Beautiful Devil

“Yes. My father kept track of every major player in the world of crime. At least those he knew about. And no, I have no idea the full extent of what and how he kept the intel he found. My father refused to go into any details.” She exhaled, her gaze flitting in my direction. “While Volkov is a wanted criminal in several countries, including the United States for what could only be described as crimes against humanity including torture, extortion, blackmail, and murder, he’s never been caught. In truth, there is very little information on either him or his family. The Russians are experts at covert activity, keeping much of their world private. He also seems to roam the world without being stopped. I do know he’s not well liked in Russia because of his extreme level of brutality.”

All I could do was smile. The beautiful woman sitting in front of me was well educated, sophisticated, and had far too much knowledge about criminal activity and weapons. I’d never wanted anyone more than I craved having her in my bed.

And in my life.

“That’s very accurate. He’s set his sights on taking over every major crime syndicate in several countries and it would appear he could have the army to do so.”

“Jesus. Are you serious?”

“Unfortunately, I am.”

“I’m no expert in criminology but I don’t see how that could happen. That would take billions of dollars as well as tremendous resources including manpower. Let alone the logistics would be a nightmare. I could only imagine the wars that could be fought inside several countries. Why would he risk losing so much money without certainty of profit?” Her brow wrinkled as she thought about what I was telling her. “Unless there were some guarantees, other organizations and syndicates working with him. Is Volkov the man responsible for attacking your estate?”

“I’m not certain, but it would appear he’s bound and determined to make me a target. You are right, there is a group of individuals working together. The person representing them is requesting that I handle his elimination.”

“That sounds dangerous. It also sounds desperate.”

The woman would make an excellent covert operations leader.

I brushed my knuckles across her cheek, grimacing from the single jolt of current coursing through my blood. She’d become a lifeline, the only air I needed to breathe. “Whatever the case, what I’m about to embroil myself in is dangerous. I can’t allow anyone to threaten my world. I’m not going to lie to you that bringing you to New York with me is a reckless decision and before you say anything, I made you a promise I obviously intend on keeping but that’s why you must do everything I ask of you without question. Can you do that?”

Emily nodded only once, her eyelids half closing as her breathing became scattered. “Why did Volkov target you?”

The question I knew she’d eventually ask, the answer likely to tear us apart. I’d thought of every scenario to try to keep her safe, but nothing seemed secure enough. I lifted her chin with a single finger, forcing her to look into my eyes.

“Because I’m more dangerous to him.”

“O-kay. Why are you considering doing this at all?”

“Because if what I learned is true, everything I believed about my life is a lie.”

“I don’t understand.”

I leaned forward, pressing my lips against hers, drinking in her subtle yet powerful scent. “My name isn’t Kostya Baranov.”

“Then what is it?”

“Kostya Volkov, the firstborn son of Dimitri Volkov. So, you see, Emily. I really am a monster.”

* * *

“An interesting location,” Diego said in passing as we stood near the aquarium store located just outside of Manhattan.

I took a deep breath as I surveyed the busy street, horns honking and brakes squealing every few seconds. “The Kozlov family has diversified. A fascinating choice.” I glanced at the sign and chuckled.Rare Marine Life for the Consummate Consumer.I could only imagine the type of sea creatures that were on the menu.

“A stretch but fascinating.”

“You need to broaden your horizons, my friend. Stretch your limits. Think of the strawberry farm and the money it provides.”

He laughed as he unbuttoned his suit jacket, nodding several times. “You’re right. Who would have ever thought growing fucking fruit would bring in millions of dollars a year?”

“The savvy professionals always cater to those enticed by indulgences. This should be enjoyable.”

“I found out how the Russians immobilized the sensors. One of the soldiers had found an intricate handheld device with a scrambler attached. Extremely unusual, brilliant technology, a device we should clone. If what I believe is true after dismantling it, there isn’t a security or communications system in the world impervious to being hacked.”

Exhaling, I shook my head. “That gives Volkov additional power. Is there any way to block it?”

“Maybe, but that’s going to take me time and I might need some assistance.” Diego gave me a hard look.

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