Page 111 of Betrayal (Corrupt Empire 1)

I ran a hand through my hair.

“Yes, just wished you’d called. I was half asleep when he turned up at my door.”

“Yeah, sorry. Insistent little prick. Not as bad as the rest of his family though. Still, did you find out where she was yesterday?”

Time to weave some more lies.

“Not exactly. Couldn’t pinpoint her location, the number was blocked and even if I did, she’d be long gone by now unless she was stupid enough to stay put.”

Chuck sighed and I heard some banging in the background.

“Fuck. You’re right. Little bitch is clever.”

I almost fucking growled. He’d fucking pay for calling her that. No respect for his niece whatsoever.

“I wonder why she called him after all this time,” Chuck continued. “That little stunt she’s pulled with the media hasn’t helped either. She had to have help. According to Ethan, they haven’t been able to trace where the leak came from.”

“So you didn’t dispose of him?”

“No. He’s useful. Besides, there would be too many questions if a pig disappeared. Don’t need any more shit right now.”

I turned back to James and Avery. The two of them were whispering to each other. I’d fucking pay to know what they were talking about, but I had to deal with Chuck.

“I’ll keep working on it.”

“Good man. I know I’ve not had much on for you recently, but when this blows over, I’m sure things will go back to normal.”

I didn’t much care about that. Gave me time to spend with Avery and work out my next move. I had enough to live on for life working for them so money wasn’t an issue. I wasn’t one to live in the lap of luxury.

“Don’t worry about it. Got stuff to keep me busy.”

“I’m sure. Right, better get back to the grind.”

He hung up without saying goodbye.

Avery looked up when I approached the sofa.

“James has to go, but is it okay if he comes over again soon?”

I nodded. The sooner he left, the sooner I could get some answers. And fuck her. There would be no getting out of it.

“Well, it was nice to meet you,” James said, standing up.

He didn’t move to shake my hand again. Probably a good move on his part as my patience was wearing thin. She got up and saw him to the door. I sat back on the sofa and waited for her. She wasn’t quick to come back to me, making a stop in the bathroom first.

When she finally walked in, her eyes were downcast and she looked tense.

“Aiden…”

“Come here. Now.”

She didn’t hesitate, walking over and standing before me. I grabbed her arm and tugged her down into my lap so she straddled me. I gripped her chin and forced her to look at me.

“What the fuck happened between the two of you in the kitchen? And do not lie to me, Avery. I’ll fucking know.”

“Aiden, please don’t.”

My grip got tighter. Her eyes flashed with pain.

---