Page 113 of Brutal King

Turning to Father’s portrait, I take out the penny I’m still carrying around with me. I lift it for him to see. “They’re all dead.”

Francesco Gianni, Giuseppe Tadesco, Bryan McKenzie, Sean Murphy, Clive Maxton and Sergio Ramos. The original six are gone, but there is still work to be done. Legacies I’ve sworn to end in the name of revenge.

Unless…

I must choose something I love, for something I love even more.

My focus shifts between the penny and my father. I vowed to avenge his death no matter the cost.

That was then. Now, there are more important things at stake than revenge. The cost of what I can lose is too high.

My brother. Scarlet. A child. And my Little Bird. For them, I must make a choice.

An idea begins to form in my mind. A bargaining chip that might get what remains of the alliance to disband. Perhaps, even get Luca to back down.

Placing the penny on the desk, I say, “It’s time for this to end.”

I search the house for Sofia and find her in the grotto. She’s floating on her back, a contended smile spread over her lips. “The water is finally warm enough. You should come in.”

Crouching near the edge, I call her over. “Another time. I’m writing up a proposal for your brother. The alliance, actually.”

She swims over and hangs onto the side of the pool. “What kind of proposal?”

“An end to my revenge in exchange for Rowan’s release from the deal he made for me. And Gunner and Scarlet’s freedom too, of course.”

“You’d be willing to do that?”

“They’re my family.” It’s the only explanation she needs. “Itsuki is on his way. He’s going to go with me to New York and set up the meeting. The fun had to end someday.”

“The fun doesn’t have to end.” Her smile widens. “How about a little game?”

My interest perks up. “What sort of game?”

“A high stakes game. If I get to that wall,” she points to the one across the pool, “before you can catch me, I’ll let you fuck me right here.” Glancing around to make sure none of the staff is around, she tugs down her top so that I can see her beautiful tits. My mouth goes instantly dry and I reach for her, but she swims away and covers herself.

“And if I don’t?” I ask. “What do I lose?”

“If you don’t, webothlose.” Her laughter is full of mischief as she splashes water at me.

I chuckle along with her. “Dirty, Little Bird. You’re willing to make us both lose for a bit of fun.”

“Don’t let us down, Ferryman.” Her voice is husky, seductive.

“Fine. I’ll play your game. Give me five minutes to change.”

“Nope. It’s gotta be now, or you forfeit. We go in three?—”

“The fuck!” I take my shoes off.

“Two…”

“Shit!” My Rolex goes flying, as does my wallet.

“One!” She pushes off the side and is already several feet ahead.

With no time to spare, I jump into the water. She’s a fast swimmer, already halfway across the pool by the time I come close. I grab her leg, but she kicks at me and gets away.

Engaging every one of my muscles, I power through the water until I reach her again. Her hand is already extending, ready to slap it against the wall, when I wrap my arms around her waist and tug her to me.

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