Page 64 of Scarlet Angel

“Every time you answer me, I’ll do that.”

I swallow.

There are too many clothes between us.

“Now, were you close to your parents?”

“Yes.”

She rocks against me. I close my eyes, luxuriating in the motion.

“Was your father in the syndicate?”

“No.”

I open my eyes, willing her to move.

“What is the syndicate?”

She settles against me, and a swell of dizziness hits.

“Is it like the Lupi Grigi?”

“No. It’s a collective.”

My breathing is… I swipe a hand to my forehead. It’s damp with perspiration.

“A collective of what?”

“Influential individuals. A global alliance.”

“Men and women?”

“At present, all men. But in theory, women could be included.”If they sat like this…

“If your father wasn’t a member, how?—”

“My grandfather was a Russian oligarch. My father, too, but he was one of many sons, and he ventured to Europe. And our family, we made our money in oil. My grandfather was a member of the Russian Bratva, much like your uncle is a member of the Italian mafia. Membership allows your uncle to grow his otherwise legitimate enterprise, but he’s not the leader, and he likely doesn’t approve of their ways.”

“My uncle’s enterprises are not strictly legitimate.”

“Neither were my family’s.”

“So, is the syndicate Russian?”

“No.”

“How did you get into it?”

“My parents were among many of the wealthy who rallied against Putin’s regime. He had them eliminated. My grandfather’s influence allowed me to keep my inheritance. Plus, my parents had become UK citizens. It was too complicated for Putin to reclaim my father’s businesses. And me. I was already off at boarding school with friends with influence. A friend approached me. Given my wealth and background, they deemed me a perfect fit.”

I close my eyes and let my head rest while I drag her hips forward, then push her back, then forward.Heaven.

“When were you approached?”

“My third year at university.”

“What was the pitch?”

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