Page 70 of Beautiful Devil

The first Russian slumped to the floor, blood pooling under him, the third shaken enough saliva was oozing from his mouth. Yet he remained quiet, but I sensed he was seeking help from one or both of his comrades. That wasn’t going to happen. That’s not how the game was played.

“It would appear we need to do this again. Another subject I believe.” As soon as I issued the words, Alexei motioned to the same two soldiers, who grabbed the second man. Only this time, he managed to put up a hell of a fight, almost breaking free of the hold.

“Ne delay atogo. Pozhaluysta!” Don’t do it. Please! The third man begged, sweat rolling down both sides of his face.

“Do it and get this shit over with,” Sevastian hissed. “I have another meeting to attend.”

Such was the way of our lives. Always busy.

There was no hesitation, the popping sound reverberating in the open space.

“Last time. Where is Volkov?” I moved to within inches of the third man.

“Miami! He’s in Miami!”

“There. Was that so difficult?” I asked, turning away immediately. I couldn’t care less what happened to them now. I had the needed information. “Finish this, but I need to talk to both of you.” I looked from Alexei to Sevastian. I had a feeling the assholes would be fed to the fishes.

Alexei nodded, immediately heading to one of the other rooms, closing the door after I entered. At least the aquariums located within the space held more peaceful creatures.

“Did you know your father has been working with an organization attempting to hunt down Dimitri Volkov?” I wasted no time asking the question. I had plans to make, which included heading for Miami the next day, but not before fulfilling the promise I’d made to Emily. I could be an honorable man.

I could tell by the way the two men looked at each other that they had no idea.

“Where the fuck did you get that information?” Alexei barked.

“From Ovachov who hired me to track and kill the man.”

There was continued surprise, which allowed me to feel confident to continue.

“Twelve powerful leaders are working together in order to rid the world of the cockroach. Personally, I have no problem with the concept. What I do have a problem with is too much of my information was leaked to Ovachov in the first place. Somehow, at least a portion of that information was transferred to Volkov, which allowed him to breach my security. That’s not acceptable. And that leak comes directly from your organization.”

Sevastian was in my face within two seconds, prepared to take a swing.

“Go ahead. Do it. But if you do, it will be the last time you’re able to use that arm.” My statement was clear, and he knew it was true.

“Cut the crap,” Alexei snarled, moving closer. “If you’re insinuating our father had anything to do with leaking information, you’re out of your fucking mind.”

“That may be the case. Perhaps there is a soldier close to your father who learned of my identity and whereabouts. Whatever the answer is, find it. And eliminate the problem. If you don’t, this will be your only warning that you will learn the true nature of my business practices.”

Alexei was a brutal, vile man, but he also knew when not to call a man’s bluff.

“I will find out and handle the situation,” Alexei assured me.

“Excellent. Now, I have other business to attend to.”

“What about the information Ms. Shephard might have?” Sevastian asked, half laughing as if the entire situation was a joke.

“It will be found after a visit is made to Emily’s mother.” I glanced from the younger brother back to Alexei.

“How long do I need to keep her in the facility?”

I shook my head. “She’s dying. You said so yourself. You will not disturb Mrs. Shephard in her last hours.”

“It would seem you’ve found your kryptonite,” he answered.

I glared into his eyes, trying to keep my anger in check. He’d found his as well, the woman exactly what he needed. He’d gone to great lengths in order to protect her, something I’d been a part of. He owed me and he knew it.

“Perhaps. However, it will not interfere with business. Volkov will be found.”

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