As I turn away, the blonde's hands running up and down my chest, I swear to God, I can feel Iris's eyes boring into me.
It's like an ice cold knife piercing right through me, but I won't let that distract me.
Tonight, I'm focused.
Tonight, nothing will get in my way–except her.
If Iris knew what was about to happen, she'd never forgive me.
But I have to do it.
For the good of the family.
For the good of everyone.
And maybe, just maybe, if this goes off without a hitch, I can get her out of my mind.
I'll focus on my daughter and forget all about sinfully sexy best friend.
As the blonde's lips press against mine, a sudden realization hits me.
I havenointerest in this woman.
My mind is completely occupied by another.
Iris—her touch, her smell, her laugh.
They're all I can think about, and the guilt is crushing.
Because while she's out there, dancing, teasing, and selling her body, all I can do is imagine taking her for myself.
Claiming her.
Making her mine.
And the worst part is, I don't even feel bad about it.
"Come on, sugar," the blonde purrs, tugging me toward the private rooms. "Let's get this party started."
I follow her without hesitation, but my thoughts are still consumed by Iris.
By the time this night is over, one of two things will happen.
Lyon will be dead, and the club will belong to me.
Or, Iris will never speak to me again.
Whichever happens, it won't be pretty.
And as the door closes behind us, the music pounding and the blonde's body pressed against mine, I can't help but wish I had made a different decision.
I wish I'd had the balls to tell Iris how I feel.
Maybe then I'd have a chance with her.
But now, I'm left with only regrets and a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach.
"Viper," the blonde murmurs, her voice low and husky. "You've got a lot to live up to."