Page 144 of Cruel Devotion

“No because you keep avoiding updating me about my men so that tells me that Lei probably beat the shit out of them.”

I tensed.

“When we all sit down. . .Lei is going to have to make that situation right too.”

“O-kay.” I cleared my throat. “So. . .talk to Marcelo about the men around the mountain.”

“Why? They're nervous with all that green around them?”

“Banks, Lei has to focus on winning against his father. Do you understand the emotional toll that it is going to take on him. He has to train—”

“Sounds like Lei is training more with you than where he should be—”

“Banks, call the men off, and don't give me that Marcelo has to do it bullshit. You and he act like fucking twins birthed from the same womb. If you pull them back, Marcelo will respect the decision.”

Edge laced his voice. “You better be safe.”

“I am.”

“Not one fucking scratch or anyone bothering you—”

“I'm more than good, Banks. Lei's men carry me around on this gold and blue chair like I'm Cleopatra. And when we had a feast, I was on this throne.”

Banks let out a long breath.

“What?”

“Is this really happening?”

“The only thing that is happening is that I am a Friend of the Four Aces.”

“Moni.”

“What?”

“I need to talk to you twice a day—morning and night.”

“Okay.”

“I want to know that you are safe and keep me up-to-date.”

“I will.”

“I don't like this.”

“I know.”

“But I also believe that you are smart as hell, and. . .maybe. . .just maybe, you can navigate this shit safely.”

I swallowed. “Thank you, Banks.”

“I will murder them all if anything happens to you.”

“Nothing will happen.”

“And make sure Lei understands that my men will be well compensated for the pain and injuries he gave them.”

I blinked. “If that is the case then I will make sure of that.”

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