Page 126 of Consume Me

None of them stand up, but Kieran points to a seat across from them.

A clear gesture they’re used to people wanting things from them, not vice versa.

Three identical folders are spread open on the table, each filled with pictures and information about the Family. It’s an intimidation tactic that won’t work on me.

I take a seat, leaning back and not giving them any reaction.

“We have to know who we’re working with,” Kieran says in a no-nonsense voice, as if reading my thoughts.

“What can we do for you?” Cameron asks, though his unimpressed tone suggests it’s just as much about what I can do for them.

I look at Cato, who steeples his fingers in front of his mouth, remaining silent. I guess he’s not the chatty one.

“I am here to represent the Family. If we collaborate, let’s get one thing straight: neither I nor my family will be pawns in your power games.”

“Yet, you’re here,” Cato says, tapping his finger on the folder.

“My family is being attacked, and yes, the Family has tremendous influence and money.”

“We have both of those, as well,” Kieran says.

They’re playing hard to get even though all four of us know they have been eager to have the Family at their table. Assholes.

“Then see it as one hand washes the other when the other needs it. We’d like to stay in the shadows.”

They exchange a look, and Cameron says, “No one will know you’re our associate. You want to stay in the shadows? You will, but we will come to collect when needed.”

“You’re playing the long game. I respect that. Find Felix and Caleb for me, and provide us with manpower when needed, guaranteeing our protection against any future enemies. You want control of the underground, fine—the Family has no interest in it. My focus is keeping the Family’s legacy alive and my family safe. In exchange, I will move hundred million of the Family’s money into your bank,” I tell Kieran. Then, turning to Cato, I continue, “I’ll give you access to the port in Delaware.” Finally, I face Cameron. “And the Family will assist you with enough lobbying power to reach whatever position you desire in politics.”

The three exchange a look. They don’t even need words, seeming to communicate without.

“Mr. Sinclair, you’ve got yourself the protection of the Syndicate. Don’t cross us,” Kieran says.

He stands up, and we shake hands. Then, I do the same with Cameron and Cato.

“We would have suggested you partake in one of our parties, but we wouldn’t want your face becoming public, now would we? Future face of the world’s biggest pharmaceutical company,” Cameron takes a jab at me.

“I’m the one dealing with you because I am not like the rest of my family. Just so we’re clear.”

“An heir with a dark side. Hmm, this will be interesting,” Kieran says.

“I really wanted to test you in the ring against me,” Cato says with a touch of melancholy.

“It wouldn’t be good for your reputation having your ass kicked.”

He throws his head back and laughs, and even the other two look at me, almost impressed. “Let’s not test that. Wouldn’t want to send you back to the Family in a bag.”

Kieran looks at me as if he knows there’s something more to why I am so confident, but none of them will ever find out the reason behind that. Fighting was my anchor until Mia. Thinking of her, I’m ready to wrap things up and fly home.

Leaving, I snatch the dagger and my phone from the guard, then call Cassandra.

“They accepted our offer.”

“Of course they did.”

“I don’t like giving them so much control.”

“We had to find the best partners to deal with situations like this one. You did good.”

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