Page 17 of Caged

I hope I look like I’m on the edge of absolutely losing my shit.

His dark brows furrow and his jaw clenches.

“You’re hurt. I can take you to a clinic?—”

“No! My ex, the one who sold me to those monsters, he works at a clinic! And, his brother is a cop! I’ll be fine. I just need to hide for a little while, then I’ll leave town.” I think that lie should take out most of the options.

Sniffling, I go through the motions of limping away from him a few steps before turning back. “Um. Do you know which way to the women’s shelter?” My head really does hurt. Gingerly, I let my fingers explore the wound and wince.

His left eye twitches while he watches me. “Come on. You can get cleaned up at my place while you figure out where to go.”

I have to tread carefully.

“You don’t have to. I’m sure your girlfriend wouldn’t be happy if you brought home some strange woman.” I pretend to look away, but sneak a glance to see his expression.

His dossier said his wife died years ago. But, he might have someone new.

Nikolai straightens almost imperceptibly before shaking his head. “Not an issue.”

Whew. One less obstacle.

It leaves the door open for other tactics to get the information I need.

I don’t think torture would work on him.

Na myod poymayesh bolshe mukh, chem na uksus. Will catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

“Okay. I just don’t want to get in the middle of any more shit.” I smear my blood on my torn pants.

Damn. Those guys really did get a couple of hard hits in.

The pain is starting to sink in.

His firm hold on my elbow startles me at first. But, there’s something comforting about the way he’s helping me.

He’s gentle, but direct. And, seems to be conscious about how far away to keep himself, yet is still useful.

I hate that he’s such a damn gentleman. If he was a complete hound, it would make this easier.

The clock on my brother’s life is ticking.

“Thank you. You didn’t have to save me.” Slowing my movements, I let out a few groans as I slide into the front seat of his Hellcat.

He waves his hand nonchalantly. “Those vermin should not have been there at all.”

Tyler helped me lead them there, knowing that particular bar was enforced by Nikolai’s boss, Mikhail.

It’s been frustrating for Tyler to try and gain any information about the players here in Vegas. He said everywhere he turns, there’s some sort of cyber wall blocking his queries.

Almost like they’re protected from someone better than Tyler at hacking.

But, that’s impossible. He’s the best I’ve ever seen.

I’m lucky he’s my cousin and on my side.

We’ve made an unbeatable team for years. Let’s hope that streak continues.

Nikolai makes a call while we’re driving. He speaks in Russian the whole time.

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