Page 90 of Brick's Retribution

Five days to prepare for walking into hell.

But now the stakes are even higher—not just Lashes, but Imani's father too.

"We're going to pull this off," Imani says, reading my expression.

"Yeah," I agree. "We are."

Because failure means losing everyone we're trying to save.

And that's not an option I'm willing to accept.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Imani

My phone buzzes against the nightstand, Marcus Webb's name flashing on the encrypted display.

Five days since we met with Alejandro, five days of preparing for this fucking auction, and now the art dealer who moonlights in human misery is calling with updates.

I glance at Brick, still asleep beside me, his face peaceful in the early morning light.

Part of me wants to let him rest—God knows he's been pushing himself hard getting ready with this shit—but we agreed to have no secrets between us.

"Marcus," I answer quietly, slipping out of bed.

"Imani, darling," his cultured voice grates against my nerves. "I hope I'm not calling too early?"

"Not at all," I lie smoothly, pulling on one of Brick's shirts. "I assume you have information about our upcoming event?"

"Indeed. The sellers are quite excited about this particular auction. They're presenting some truly premium merchandise."

My stomach turns at his casual phrasing, but I force myself to sound interested. "Oh?"

"Yes, several new acquisitions. Young, educated, exactly the caliber your father will require." He chuckles, the sound making my skin crawl. "A few are even two-for-one specials, if you understand my meaning."

The phone nearly slips from my hand.

Two-for-one.

He's talking about pregnant women.

"How... fortunate," I manage, bile rising in my throat.

"Quite. Those particular lots always generate impressive bidding wars. Nothing quite like potential for return on investment."

I close my eyes, fighting the urge to vomit.

These monsters are selling pregnant women, talking about unborn children like they're stock options.

"I should mention," Marcus continues, oblivious to my horror, "security will be enhanced for this event. There have been some... disruptions in the market recently. Nothing to concern yourself with, but do expect additional protocols."

"Understood," I force out. "We appreciate the heads up."

"Of course. Oh, and Imani? Do tell your father that the sellers are particularly interested in establishing ongoing relationships with serious buyers. This could be the beginning of a very profitable partnership."

"I'll be sure to pass that along."

"Excellent. Until next week then."

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