Page 54 of The Killer Who Kept Me

“Same as me. Like I said, my parents died a long time ago. We needed to know by whom, now we do. Even though Lynus Frazee is dead, Ramsey knew, and Lynus’s son sure as shit did too.”

“Not that I’d ever defend Ramsey, but just because he knew, he has to die? And do you know that Barrett did?”

Saros motioned for me to come sit beside him, and I eagerly accepted.

“Barrett knew—of that, I’m certain. Just like I knew everything my uncle did before he handed things to me. He could have come to me told me what his father did, and it would have been a huge show of loyalty and support. But he didn’t, and I’m positive he’s working with Ramsey and their goal is to shut me down.”

I opened my mouth, but Saros pressed a finger against it. “And understand something. Ramsey isn’t dying for anything to do with my parents. He dies for what he’s done to you.”

Was it weird I that wanted to straddle him for saying that? Was something wrong with me?

“You’re having a conversation in your head again, aren’t you?” Saros grinned.

“Maybe.”

“What are you telling yourself?”

“That I very much want to kiss you.”

He opened his arms. “Then tell yourself to get on with it.”

So I did.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

“Stand for something or you will fall for anything. Today’s mighty oak is yesterday’s nut that held its ground.”

~ Rosa Parks

Saros

What wasmy life right now? Fucked up was what. I wanted more than anything to only have to concentrate on Em. I wished I had endless hours to talk with him, kiss him, make love to him. Instead I had necks to break and empires to crumble.

I’d left Em in my bedroom so I could do rounds and talk to everyone. Most wanted to know what was going on, so I called them into the ballroom. It was the largest area.

Uncle Andrew stood off to the side, Aunt Penelope in his arms. Cosmo was sitting with Dafni and the kids. I wasn’t lying when I’d told Em he’d given my family something we’d desperately needed. We had answers, and as soon as every person paid for what they’d done to my parents and Em, the hole would be buried.

“Thank you all for being here,” I started. The room quieted. “I know you’re all wondering why I’ve asked you all to remain under my roof for the time being, and I will give you whatever information I can at this time.”

In the back of the room, leaning against the doorjamb, was Em. Hands in his pockets, he nodded at me in silent support. It was adorable. I’d commanded rooms, and had no fear of anyone in here, but he still felt the need to show he was there for me.

“Early this morning, right before closing, The Vine was set on fire.”

There were some hums and gasps.

“I believe my territory and power are being challenged, and the best way to dismantle a kingdom is a brick at a time. I have no doubt that each of you would be targeted; therefore it’s my duty to make sure you’re all protected. Under this roof, you will be.”

“What about the kids? They have school,” Lenora, the wife of one of my guys, asked.

“I’m asking for this week if you can all call your children out of school. I know this is a disruption, but a few absences is a small price to pay for their safety.”

No one argued—they wouldn’t dare. I was sure some were not happy being here and would much rather be in their own homes, but they obeyed me.

“Martha and my Aunt Penelope have worked out sleeping arrangements. No one will have to worry about food or anything else. Any issues you have, please feel free to address them with any of my people, or Dafni.” I gestured to Martha. “One at a time, if you can tell them all where they’ll be staying?”

Martha nodded and started informing everyone. I moved through the crowd and over to Em.

“I thought you were staying upstairs.”

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