Page 76 of Sin and Deception

"How can you be such a prude when you are living the experiences in that book?" She laughed.

“I am not a prude,” I retorted defensively. “I simply prefer to keep my personal life private. And I have no idea where Fiona got these ideas from. I certainly don’t discuss my sex life with my little sister.”

“Well, it’s not hard to imagine why Fiona wrote those scenes. Just look at the way Theo and Xander stare at you every time you enter the room,” Devani pointed out. “I know they’ve fucked you senseless plenty since they found you in Vegas. I’m surprised you can walk straight.”

“It’s not like—” But I stopped myself, knowing there was no point in arguing. “I’m not discussing this anymore.”

“I rest my case. Prude.”

I glared at her and stood up, making my way to the bar cart in the corner of the room. Pouring generous amounts of whiskey into snifters for both of us, I returned and handed one to Devani before sitting down next to her.

After taking a hefty swallow and allowing the alcohol to settle my nerves, I said, “I’m considering a drastic move, Devani. I need your guidance. It’s a dangerous risk.”

“In this lifestyle, any decision you make has risks. You arethe head of your organization. Your choices have consequences for everyone you lead.”

“Exactly. That's what worries me.”

“What are you afraid of, specifically?”

“Failure? Bringing more pain to my family? I'm trying to end these rivalries, but will they ever stop? Is that even possible? Or am I doomed to a life filled with fear? I have my sons now, Devani. Everything has changed. The game has shifted. It's not just my life and the lives of my sisters and mother that are at risk here.”

“That's true,” she said slowly, nodding as she took in my words. “But please, Nerine, allow me to remind you of a few things you seem to forget.”

“Please do. I welcome your insight,” I replied, leaning back and sipping my whiskey.

Knowing Fiona was safe, the chaos of everything else I tried to manage churned and bubbled, building like a caldera ready to explode.

The weight of my responsibilities felt burdensome, pressing down on me and reminding me that my actions had consequences.

“What is your name?” Devani asked, peering at me as if she could see deep into my soul.

She was breathtakingly beautiful with her dark golden skin and striking onyx eyes. She had the power to topple dynasties with her skill. She was formidable, unyielding, and cunning. I was grateful she was on my side, as the thought of having her as an enemy sent shivers down my spine.

“Seriously?” I scoffed. “I know who I am, Devani.”

“Do you?” she asked. “Say it out loud.”

I frowned. “I'm Nerine Angelos.”

“No. Who are you?”

I sighed. What over-dramatic game was she playing now?

Fine. I’d humor her.

“I am Nerine, the Godmother of the Night, Queen of the Angelos Syndicate. The soldiers call me the Angelos Angel.”

“Stand up,” she instructed, reaching for my hand and pulling me to my feet.

I let out an exasperated sigh and stood up, letting her lead me to a large mirror on the wall opposite the towering bookcases. It was a priceless antique, intricately gilded in gold and ornately carved in the eighteenth century by a renowned artist whose name I had long forgotten. I vividly recall walking in on my father one day and catching him admiring his reflection in it.

It had been one of the last days of his life, and that image had lingered with me for years afterward. I hadn't thought about it in a while, but the memory surfaced as I stood there. I studied myself closely, noticing subtle changes I hadn't noticed before.

My eyes felt different. Perhaps it was simply the effects of childbirth, but they appeared older now—more solemn and reflective. I couldn't quite pinpoint it until Devani spoke again.

“Repeat your name,” she instructed, soft and gentle yet commanding.

I took a deep breath before speaking, attempting tosteady the nerves fluttering in my stomach. “Nerine, Godmother of the Night, Queen of the Angelos Syndicate.”

---