Page 25 of Cruel Devotion

“It’s like the tales of sirens and mermaids, luring sailors with their beauty and songs, only for them to be pulled under, never to resurface.”

“Are those all the colors?”

“In the North, they wear yellow.”

“Why?”

“Think of it like a caution sign. One must always proceed carefully and with great respect when they see yellow.”

“So then why do you want me to wear white?”

“White shows neutrality and signifies that a person is aFriend of the Diamond Syndicateand is protected by its codes and regulations. It means you cannot be possessed, harmed, or threatened by any of the factions within the Syndicate.”

I felt a lump form in my throat. The thought of having such a mark was reassuring, but also daunting. “And everyone in this Diamond Syndicate would respect that?”

“Everyone in Paradise City would. But yes. . .someone like Leo. . .even though he is demented. . .would respect the white.”He sighed. “Lei would too. Chen would demand that everyone treat you in accordance with the code. He’s stiff like that.”

“Alright.” I nodded. “I can compromise on the color. As long as my wearing white isn’t disrespectful to anyone.”

“Lei may not like it but—”

“Why wouldn’t he like it?”

“Your wearing blue now means that he has full domain over you—”

“What? I’m just wearing blue—”

“It still means you’re under his control.”

I sighed, hating how caught up they all were with colors.

“White will keep our side calm.”

“Marcelo and you?”

“Yes. Because. . .I’m with Marcelo. I don’t want you there either—”

“Banks, I swear I’m fine and—”

“No. No. We don’t need to argue it at this point. Just let me have my men there watching over you. I get eyes there and I’m calm. Next, you wear white and now my blood pressure is steady.”

“And you’re fine?”

“No. I wouldn’t be fine, but I would be manageable for these seven days. Once you’re done, Marcelo and I grab you.”

“Okay.”

“Then, we will look over that deed and really help you decide if living in the East is a smart move or not.”

I gritted. “Okay.”

“And keep in mind, cousin. I’m not trying to control your life. It’s just. . .you’re now moving inmyworld, and there’s things that are different. . .and even dangerous. I just want you safe.”

“I understand.”

Banks released a pained sigh. “I can’t believe Uncle Chris is gone.”

My heart broke.

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