Page 56 of Ruthless Kings of Havoc

This is what Matteo wished to ignite.

I don’t know whether to be proud, shocked, or frightened because this is a plan I never would have thought of.

That’s what scares me the most because it proves Matteo enjoys thinking outside of the box.

Like me.

“Aries Albrecht,” he announces loud and clear, making me realize he has a mic attached to his collar that is rather discreet in nature. “To some, Albrecht Eldest. It’s been many years since I’ve stood upon this stage, and I do recognize some in the crowd from those many years ago.”

That doesn’t make anyone excited.

In fact, many look uneasy.

Why?

“Matteo Leighton invited me to the opportunity to return to Leighton Royals University as a Ruthless King to our current Maiden, Evangeline Prescott,” Aries announces. “The opportunity is not only welcomed, but I accept it with immense gratitude. It has been my duty to keep a watchful eye on Miss Prescott, and it feels empowering to continue doing that while pursuing the benefits of attending such a prestigious academic institution a second time.”

He scans the crowd, and I can tell his eyes stop on Domino, who has an odd expression on his face. I can’t tell if he’s angered by the situation or, dare I say, frightened by it. Either way, he’s staring right back at Aries with no intention of backing down from whatever is about to be stated before this crowd.

“So let me make this clear.” The way Aries’ voice dips with those first words not only frightens me but has my core in a knot.Maybe a few knots.“Don’t mess with what’s mine.”

The few brave girls who are willing to make a mere peep are either fanning themselves or trying to hide their red faces.

“And what will you do about it if we do?” Domino dares to threaten.

No one says a word. No one dares to even breathe.

We’re all holding our breath while Aries slowly tilts his head. The smile on his lips doesn’t dip away.

No. It grows.

Seconds before he’s pointing a gun straight in Domino’s direction.

Not a single person stands a chance of stopping him from pulling the trigger, leaving me gasping in anticipation of the piercing sound that will ignite utter mayhem.

The crowd gasps and ducks just as a sound pops through the air, but we all look to see the rising smoke from the barrel whilewe acknowledge the fluttering fall of confetti that rains upon a small spot on the stage.

A single red flag waves from the end, but it’s the symbol on the flag that proves Aries’ alliance.

A bunny silhouette.

“Look at what’s mine the wrong way, and you’ll be sorry. Mess with what’s mine, and you’ll wish your family directory wasn’t so easy to claim, and dare touch what’s mine, and well…” He pauses to look at the gun before he tosses it off the stage and pulls out a real one.

He intentionally presses the safety, ensuring everyone hears that rather loud ‘click.’

“And you’ll find a bullet in your head,” he boldly announces. “Well… you won’t. The autopsy will.”

The pitch-dropping silence is the answer everyone needs.

And, of course, I’d be the first to ruin it.

“So… does that mean you and me can be a thing, or is that off-limits?”

I don’t know why that’s the first thing that comes out of my mouth, but it has Zander laughing in a heartbeat.

“Sweet Dynamite! Did you just admit to having a fascination for your previous bodyguard, now soon-to-be Ruthless King?” he inquires mockingly, leaving me to blush as I realize I did something far too stupid.

“W-Wait! No! I didn’t! I’m… I’m just claiming territory now!”

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