Page 8 of Betrayed in the Dark
“I’m assuming you’ve told him,” Vin states, glancing at Leo. He rolls up his shirt sleeves as he approaches before crossing his arms over his chest. With his imposing size and presence, it’s clear why he became the head of the family after his father’s death; not only is he the oldest of the five siblings, but he also exudes authority.
Leo nods.
Vin’s eyes land on me. “And what do you think?”
I release a deep breath as I rub the back of my neck. “I’ll guard her with my life.”
None of them realize the extent of my words. That I’d willingly sacrifice my life for hers if need be. Or that I’d burn this fucking world to ash for her if that’s what she asked of me.
I’d do anything for that woman.
Well, anything except watch her walk down the aisle to marry another man.
Yeah, that’s not happening.
Mauro grunts in approval before pouring himself a glass of whiskey and downing it in one go. His stature matches that of Vin’s: burly and muscular. His shoulder-length hair is held back with a black leather strap while a few loose strands escape, framing his face. My eyes catch on the scar across his neck, a reminder of one of the worst days this family has endured, before quickly looking away.
We all bear scars.
Some that can be seen, and others that can’t.
I should know.
“Good,” Alex answers, grabbing a paper towel to wipe away a few drops of liquid on the counter. “That’s what we wanted to hear.”
“Jesus Christ, can you go one day without fucking cleaning something?” Vin pinches the bridge of his nose.
“If this falls to the hardwood floors, it will stain.” Alex tosses the napkin in the trash and then adjusts his glasses before pushing back his light brown hair.
“Oh, in that case, you missed a spot,” Vin informs him.
“Where?” Alex scans the counter, grabbing the roll of paper towels.
“Made you look,” Vin chimes back in amusement.
Alex rolls his grey eyes. “Fuck you.” He whips the roll of paper towels at Vin’s head, who ducks out of the way.
“It’s too easy.” Vin smooths out his dark hair, laughing.
“You’re giving me a headache.” Leo rocks his neck from side to side. “Don’t forget why we’re meeting.”
“Of course.” Vin turns his attention to his Rolex. “Well, let’s not keep her waiting. If I know our sister, she won’t take the news very well. She’s used to a certain level of freedom, which she’ll still have, but…with a shadow nearby.”
“I take it I’m the shadow.” I squeeze the back of my neck, every muscle in my body tensing with apprehension.
Vin’s finger taps on the counter beside him as he watches me with trepidation in his eyes.
“What?” I ask.
“We know this has been a challenging year for you. And we don’t want to force your hand in this assignment or risk setting back any progress you’ve made.” He sighs, his fingers gripping the counter behind him as he looks down. “I can only assume the unfortunate incident at the Alarie Estate last month might have caused some…unease.” His eyes meet mine. “So, if you’d rather take some time off, we understand. We can find someone else to guard Madeleine if—”
“I can handle this,” I interject. There’s no way in hell I’m trusting anyone else with her safety. “I’m fully prepared to be her bodyguard.”
Vin takes a moment to digest my answer, determining if I’m being truthful. “Okay then,” he answers as he steps away, walking out of the room. “Let’s get this over with.”
Mauro clasps my shoulder before turning and walking out of the room, his other brothers trailing behind him.
I follow after, my heart rate accelerating with each step I take.
