Page 34 of Ruthless God

Dimitri dips his head. “I know this is a lot to take in, but Claudius is telling the truth.”

“Claudius?” I let out a bitter laugh. “You told me your name was Gabriel.”

The room goes silent. Claudius stands, towering over me. I hate that my body takes notice.

“What did you just say?”

“You told me your name was Gabriel when we met.”

Met. Fucked. Same difference, right?

His gaze is deadly. I should be scared, but, again, my body has other ideas.

“We have never met, Ms. Blight.”

“Sure we did. Five months ago at Purple Panther Hideaway.” I lean in. “You dropped ten grand on me in the champagne room. Ring a bell?”

There’s a deep blush creeping up his tan neck, but I get the feeling it’s not from embarrassment, but rather because his blood pressure is rising.

“Gabriel is my brother.”

“Who looks exactly like you?” I huff out a laugh. “My dude, do I look like a fool?”

Dimitri says, “He’s telling the truth, Cecely. Gabriel is Claudius’ identical twin brother. Or was…”

This has me stilling. “What?”

Claudius says, “So, you see, Ms. Blight, we have never met. And you are in grave danger by staying here.”

I’m unable to stop the laugh working its way up my throat.

“Grave danger, because I might die?”

Claudius does nothing to reassure me. That alone has me sobering up.

My gaze skirts around the people in the room, landing on Harvey, who looks like he’s in shock. He’s staring at a wall, lips parted. My pulse thrums. This can’t be good for him. He’s supposed to be recovering right now!

“What do I need to do? Is Harvey safe?”

“Mr. Ashwood is safe, but will be staying with Santos for a while as a precaution. You, on the other hand, are not safe, which is why you’re coming with me.”

“Why can’t I go to Lili’s house?”

I hate that my voice cracks, making me sound weak. I shoot a pleading look at my best friend, who, in turn, looks at her husband. His expression is guarded, and my stomach churns. He’s going to say no.

Dimitri says, “Cecely, I understand that you’re frightened, but Claudius is the best person to protect you.”

It dawns on me.

“You don’t want me to come to your house because of the kids.” My gaze goes to Lili’s stomach. “And because of the baby.”

I get it. He wants to protect his family, which means I can’t go with them.

I mean, I should be used to the rejection by now. It shouldn’t sting, damn it.

Lili reaches for me. “Cecely?—”

I move before she touches me.

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