Page 16 of Sin and Deception

“I’m going to pour us a drink,” Theo announced suddenly, getting up from the couch and pulling his pants up before walking over to the small bar in the corner of the room.

Our moment of intimacy and vulnerability from a fewminutes ago felt like a distant memory now. The only version of Theo available for view was the usual tough, stoic, and calculating one, in full force and ready for whatever might come our way.

Oh well, I thought with a hint of disappointment. At least it was nice while it lasted.

Time to put on my enforcer persona.

Six

NERINE

My heart raced as I exited the elevator and entered the bustling lobby. The scent of expensive perfumes mingled with the drifting fragrance of cigarette smoke, creating a captivating yet overwhelming aroma that assaulted my senses. I discreetly scanned the ever-present crowd for signs of danger, carefully examining each face for potential threats. My nerves were on edge, and I couldn't shake my uneasiness.

"I can't believe I agreed to this," I muttered, trying to calm my racing thoughts. Taking a deep breath, I braced myself for what was to come.

I hated that I always found it nearly impossible to say no to Penny. If I had been more assertive when dealing with her,maybe I wouldn't be in this situation. Instead of being safely tucked away in my little apartment upstairs, I was in a crowded hotel lobby surrounded by strangers.

But Penny had convinced me to meet her for lunch, determined to prevent me from becoming a recluse shut away in my apartment. While I appreciated my solitude and quiet moments, there was nothing wrong with staying in and avoiding unnecessary interactions.

Logically, I understood that Penny's intentions were pure and stemmed from concern for a friend. However, my life was beyond chaotic, and I couldn't summon even a tiny appreciation for her efforts. My mind was filled with worry and fear, leaving no space for socializing or enjoyment.

As I navigated through the bustling crowd of tourists, sidestepping luggage and energetic children, I attempted to ignore the persistent noise and chaos surrounding me. The blend of chatter and laughter combined with the sporadic cries of a baby produced a clamor that grated on my already frayed nerves.

Despite Devani's assurance that I would be safe here, I never felt at ease. Living in a constant state of caution, I tried my best to blend in and avoid attracting any attention to myself. One wrong move or a single person recognizing me could put my family in grave danger.

And on top of all that anxiety, I couldn't shake off the overwhelming heartbreak of being away from my loved ones. While I cherished moments of solitude, the isolation from my family created an emptiness that nothing could fill.

The idea of unplanned visits to see them was out of thequestion, especially now that Fiona's book captivated the world. I couldn't risk bringing danger to their doorstep. Therefore, for their safety, I canceled all scheduled visits for the foreseeable future.

It was a sacrifice I had to make to protect them.

But it didn't make it any less painful.

My upcoming visit to see Mama was the only thing that had kept me going these last few months. But with it no longer on the horizon, there was nothing else to look forward to. There was no lifeline or light at the end of this endless tunnel of misery that consumed my life. All I had were memories.

Some were joyful and delightful, filling my heart with warmth and happiness. Others were bittersweet reminders of a past life I could never return to. Unfortunately, many were hauntingly horrific, replaying in my mind like a never-ending nightmare.

My hand instinctively landed on my lower abdomen, my fingers gently pressing against the jagged scar etched into my skin. A familiar sliver of unkempt rage slithered down my spine, a venomous serpent that had taken up permanent residence within me. It had been over two years since I finally escaped the hellish prison I had lived in with Andraius. Yet, whenever my thoughts lingered on him or the despicable things he had done to me, my hatred for the man bubbled up as if it had happened only yesterday.

But at least I’d killed the fucker, and I wouldn't have to endure his abuse ever again. His filthy hands would never touch me again. His repulsive mouth could no longer speakthe vile names he’d called me. He would never use me as a pawn, his ideal stepping stone to achieve his ambitions.

Letting his life's blood drip from my fingers healed more wounds than I would have believed when the act actually took place.

Reflecting back now, I regretted nothing. A sense of satisfaction flowed through me, knowing that the woman the bastard considered weak and insignificant had literally gutted him.

He deserved the cut of my knife and the end of his worthless life. That night taught me two lessons: the monster couldn't defeat me, but Theo and Xander could.

I shook off thoughts of death and destruction as I spotted Penny in the elegant restaurant waiting for me. Gracefully, she rose as I approached, wrapping her arms around me in a hug and kissing me on each cheek.

"I'm so glad you decided to leave your little hole!"

"It wasn't as if you would accept no for an answer." I sat across from her, and an attendant quickly poured wine for us both.

"I don't shy away from using every trick up my sleeve to get what I want," Penny said playfully, lifting her glass. "Here's to getting the lady who keeps us organized out of her cave."

I shook my head with a small smile, touched my glass to hers, and sipped the rich, burgundy liquid. Its smoothness soothed my jangled nerves as it entered my system. A light floral scent floated through the space, calming me further.

Perhaps Penny was onto something with her air idea. Herhusband, Hagen, must possess a magic touch to pump happy pheromones throughout the hotel and help people relax.

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