Page 36 of Bulletproof Love

I spin and find myself eye to eye with Fairfax.

Before I can think of an excuse, Jasper reaches out his hand and places it on Fairfax’s shoulder. “Was just having a little private time with the wife. You know how it is, buddy.” Every word from his lips is as smooth as melted chocolate.

“Is that right?” Fairfax says, his mouth pulling into a grin.

I press myself against Jasper’s side, playing the part of lovesick wife while also using him as a shield from Fairfax’s predatory stare.

“She can’t keep her hands off of me after a few drinks. Can’t blame her though, I am a handsome devil.” It’s a miracle I keep my eyes from rolling.

“Well, lucky for you two, it’s almost midnight. I’m glad I found you. I know with these masks it’s all supposed to be anonymous, but Whitaker, I’m shocked you finally showed. Three years in a row you passed up my gala. I’d almost begun to think it was personal.”

A weight sinks in my gut.Brennan’s never been here.This guy has no idea that he’s dead. I figured as much when we eavesdropped on his conversation with Wayne, but now there’s no doubt.

Jasper lets out a nervous laugh. “You know how it is. Ivan keeps me a busy man.”

“Well, I’m sure he’ll be happy to know you’ll finally be initiated properly.” Fairfax’s dark stare bores into mine and a chill creeps down my spine. “And you must be Ivan’s lovely daughter?” He holds his hand out for me and I reluctantly shake, drawing away as quickly as I can. “You can come with me now, Whitaker. I’m sure Mrs. Fairfax can keep your wife company while us men get to it.”

I flash Jasper a look, hoping he’ll understand my silent plea. “Actually, I think I’ll bring the Mrs. in on this one. She’s eager to be initiated too.”

Fairfax’s eyes widen and he purses his lips. “I’m sure you understand what that means?”

“Of course I do,” I say, channeling my inner confidence. “I’m Ivan Orlov’s daughter.”

Fairfax is quiet for a moment, the outline of his jaw clenches from where it’s visible in the mask. When he speaks all pretense of friendliness leaves his voice. “Very well. We’re getting off schedule with all this chatter.” He turns to walk toward the kitchen but stops to look us over again. “Swear you’ll vouch for me with Orlov, no matter what happens.”

Jasper’s fist tightens on my dress as he nods. We’ve just sealed our fate. There’s no turning back now.

* * *

We followFairfax down a set of stairs, my steps feeling like I’m walking through sludge. Whatever we’re about to walk into isn’t good. My gut is telling me to leave. I brush my palm across my switchblade and that gives me some relief.

The only light in the darkened space comes from a handful of dimly lit wall sconces and tall pillar candles set up throughout. Once we reach the bottom, the space in front of us opens up to an enormous room. A dais of sorts is set up between two columns at the front of the room and nearly a dozen chairs face it, all filled by masked men. My skin crawls.

What the hell is this initiation? Every type of terrible thought swims in my head. I was never part of a sorority in college but I’ve heard of all the crazy customs some of them have for initiating newbies. Would this be something similar? I wish I could call Blake and ask her if she heard Brennan talk about anything like this. The answer would probably be no, but it would be worth a shot.

“I won’t let anything happen to you,” Jasper whispers beside me as he moves his body closer to mine.

“You meanIwon’t let anything happen toyou,” I say with false bravado.

Our entrance into the room is noticed immediately and all heads turn in our direction. A sea of dark eyes in the dim light focus on us. Fairfax motions to the remaining empty chairs. “Take a seat in the front.”

We don’t argue, there’s no reason to. But it feels like the temperature drops the moment I sit down.

Fairfax steps up onto the dais at the front of the room, his voice booming. “Welcome to our most anticipated night of the year.” The guests clap and holler. “This has been an honored tradition for a long time now and it’s the perfect way to ring in the new year. I’d like to give a special thanks to Mr. Brennan Whitaker.” He gestures to Jasper. “If it weren’t for your good work, this night would’ve never been possible.”

The men continue to clap while Jasper raises his palm in thanks.

“I know we’re all anxious to get started, but first, our new guests need to be properly initiated.”

A few men murmur around us, the noise reminds me of buzzing mosquitoes. “But she’s a woman!” I turn and see that the outburst came from a man old enough to be my great-grandpa.

“Yes, astute observation,” Fairfax chides. “She is Ivan Orlov’s daughter.”

More murmurs sound out, and I realize my palm is inching toward my weapon strapped to my thigh. If even one person here knows about Brennan’s death, then we are so fucked.

“But who will?—”

Fairfax slams his fist against the podium, his exposed skin bright red. “Enough questions. I will not have you, of all people, Helsman, questioning my authority.” The room turns silent and Fairfax goes on. “Friends, join me up here on the dais.” As we make our way over, two younger looking men in full ski masks carry a leather chaise lounge out, placing it on the center of the raised platform.

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