Page 86 of Influence

“Hey, let’s head over to the poetry section. I want to pick something out for Niko,” I suggested.

“So romantic,” she cooed into the quiet, book-lined corridor. “I believe it’s just around the corner.”

But as we turned that corner, our lighthearted conversation abruptly ceased. Standing before us, shrouded in an ominous shadow, were Stefano and Markos, Niko’s brothers. Their faces, twisted into sneers, made it clear they hadn’t come to browse the shelves at all.

“Well, well, well, if it isn’t the Vitalis sisters,” Markos drawled.

“Markos. Stefano. Hello,” I replied coolly, though I refused to hide my utter disdain for them. “I’d say it’s a pleasure to see you both, but we both know that wouldn’t be the truth.”

I sensed Cali’s anxiety and fear growing, a palpable energy radiating from her, so I instinctively stepped to her side, positioning myself as her shield.

She had come so far in her journey. I refused to let these bastards take an ounce of her newfound joy.

My words seemed only to enrage them further, and they advanced, their very presence meant to menace and threaten. Adrenaline surged through my veins, and my heartbeat quickened.

This situation was on the brink of becoming very complicated.

Behind me, my security team moved in, creating a protective circle, their eyes sharp and attentive.

In an instant, Stefano and Markos unsheathed their weapons almost simultaneously, provoking a similar response from my own team.

A cold, calculating rage spread through me as I met their gazes. “I don’t know why I ever assumed you two had any semblance of intelligence. Clearly, I was mistaken.”

“Insult us all you want. It doesn’t affect us,” Markos declared, lifting his chin and pointing his gun in our direction.

I raised my hand, halting any action from my men, knowing all too well that they would spring into action the moment I gave the signal or if either of these idiots came any closer.

“What exactly do you want? Why have you so rudely disturbed my peaceful afternoon with my sister? Weren’t you humiliated enough during our last encounter?” I demanded.

“We’re here to remind you of what we discussed last time,” Stefano replied coldly.

“Gentlemen, this song and dance is getting boring,” I countered. “How many times will we repeat this ridiculous discussion?”

“Until you leave,” Markos said flatly.

I laughed, shaking my head. “That day will never happen.”

“Oh, but it will,” Stefano growled, stepping closer. “Willingly or not.”

“Is that a threat?”

“No,” he replied, shaking his head dismissively. “It’s a fact.”

“Is that so?” I arched a brow, curiosity battling defiance. “You seem so certain. I wonder what gives you such confidence?”

“You’ll see,” Markos retorted ominously.

I narrowed my gaze. “Please, do enlighten me, gentlemen. You’ve piqued my curiosity.”

“The Vitalis name is worthless!” Stefano suddenly shouted. “How dare you return expecting respect? Our family has never, and will never, honor your name. It has long been associated with weakness and failure. And now, you have the nerve to control our brother?”

“Control? No one controls Niko. He makes his own decisions.” I exploded, disbelief mingling with fury. “We’re married, you fucking idiots!”

“We won’t stand idly by while you tarnish the Galanis bloodline with your venomous, corrupted lineage,” Stefano snarled. “We won’t allow you to destroy the legacy our family has built.”

“That’s comical.” I laughed bitterly. “Pray tell, how do you enrich your family’s legacy? Is it anything beyond nothing? Or do you merely squander money like a pair of reckless party boys, wasting every legitimate heirloom your family has ever earned?”

My questions hung in the air, wrapping around us like a living entity.

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