Page 25 of Daddy Sees Snakes

How I've felt since the first moment I laid eyes on her.

It's a sad ending, but it's the only one I can have.

So, as the music swells and the blonde's lips trail a path of fire across my skin, I give myself over to the moment.

To the fantasy.

To the dream that, just for tonight, I'm worthy of Iris.

Just for tonight, I'm the man she needs.

Just for tonight, I'm the man who can claim her.

Just for tonight, I'm the man she'll love.

Until the morning comes, and reality sets in.

I push the blonde off me.

I can't fucking do this.

Just then, the door opens, revealing a dark figure.

It's time.

Lyon has arrived.

"What are you doing here, Viper?" he asks, his voice dripping with disdain. "I thought you had a thing for brunettes."

He's right.

I do.

Or, at least, I thought I did.

But Iris has ruined that for me.

"I did," I reply, rising from the couch. "But things change. People change. And right now, the only thing I'm interested in is taking over this club."

"You're out of your mind," Lyon spits, his eyes narrowing. "The only way you're taking over is by knocking me off."

"Maybe," I say, shrugging nonchalantly. "Or maybe I'll just take this club from under you. After all, that's how business is done."

"Not in my book," Lyon growls, his fists clenching at his sides.

"Your book doesn't matter. This is Tinsel Creek, and we play by our own rules."

"Is that so?" Lyon sneers, taking a step closer. "Well, I guess we'll see who's still standing when the dust settles."

"You bet your ass we will," I say, a grim smile playing on my lips.

"Oh, Viper," the blonde purrs, trailing her nails down my arm. "I like a man with ambition. Let's get this party started."

As she pulls me close, the scent of her perfume surrounding me, I can't help but laugh.

This is the game.

This is how we win.

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