Page 81 of Malicious Claim

Something more welcoming.

I stepped closer, slow and easy, my gaze locked onto hers. And then, in a moment, I had her pinned against the wall, one hand on the side of her head, my body so close to hers.

Her breath hitched, but she didn't budge. She never did.

"Did you miss me?" I breathed against her skin, my voice burning.

She didn't answer, but I saw it, the glint of her eyes, the hesitation. A chink in the ice.

I smiled. "You thought I was going to die in Naples."

Leila chuckled quietly, but it never reached her eyes. "I thought you were walking into a trap. I wished you'd die, yes."

I grinned. "And now?"

She set her chin a little up, teasing me. "You're still standing just like you said you would. But that doesn't change anything."

My laugh was low, almost amused. "You still think it'll be you who takes me down?"

Her lips parted a little, and when she replied, she sounded determined. "Yes. And till then, make sure no harm comes to your hair."

I regarded her for a moment, then slowly exhaled, leaning back enough just to give her space.

"There's a party tonight," I informed her. "Everybody will be there. To celebrate with me. To celebrate us."

She inclined her head a little, in amazement. "You're no different than everybody else. Your hunger for attention is insatiable."

I gave her a sour smile. "I hunger for power. I don't need the attention one bit."

Leila took a slow breath. "And what about the spy?"

She just had to bring that up.

"That's a small fry," I dismissed. "Hardly worth my attention, sweetheart."

She gave me a look, a look that I couldn't read. Then, with no further ado, she turned on her heel and walked away.

I stood there letting her go, enjoying the swivel of her hips, a slow smile creasing my lips.

The night was filled with an unbelievable amount of energy as the party started.

The estate's club was filled with the scent of cigars, whiskey, and ambitions. Our guests were mostly talians, business associates, old friends of the Cretes, and those seeking a favor. And I was right in the middle, enjoying the moment, sharing my victory with my wife at my side.

Leila performed her role well—smiling on cue, standing by my side when needed. But something wasn't right.

I felt the distance between us, even when she was inches from my body.

My gaze followed her stare. She'd been looking at a woman, dark-haired, beautiful, dressed in a dress that hugged every inch of her body like it had been painted on her.

I recognised her instantly.

Caterina.

She wasn't meant to be here.

She was meant to be in Greece.

But here she was, walking toward me, lips curving into that knowing smile.

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