Page 4 of Break a King (Five Kings 3)

The doors open and I waste no time in marching to my office because I don’t need to second guess that my guest will already be waiting for me.

As I push open the heavy oak door, I see the shadow reflected in the window and say abruptly, “Ryder.”

“You’re late.”

I check my Rolex. “One minute past.”

“As I said, you’re late.”

He stands and despite his tone, we share a smile. Yes, Ryder King is my brother in every way but blood and we share the burden as carriers of one of only five gold coins.

Five membership cards to the most exclusive club in the world and how I wish I could let my membership lapse because I am so done with this shit.

He thrusts a bag toward me and nods to a takeout cup of coffee.

“Breakfast is served.”

“You are too kind.”

Taking my seat opposite him, I remove the slightly warm pastry and nod my appreciation.

“So, what’s up?”

I get straight to the point because he prefers it that way, and Ryder sighs heavily. “Lucas is trying to sort shit out in Vegas. I have protection on him and now it’s your turn.”

“I’m fine.”

He raises his eyes. “You’re not.”

He leans back and regards me through hooded eyes before saying darkly, “Unless you know something I don’t.”

“I know shit.”

Taking a bite of my pastry, I consider his words. Your turn—for what?

“Is my life in danger?” I ask a simple question that brings a smile to his lips. “Always.”

Despite the seriousness of the question, his answer makes me laugh. “I guess I am.”

We both know I am the most hated man in New York, if not the country, because I don’t give a shit and never dish out favors - to anyone.

Taking a sip of my coffee, I wince a little and he laughs. “What’s the matter, princess, too rough around the edges for you?”

“Not my usual standard but passable.”

I raise my eyes and he shakes his head. “Asshole.”

“Talking about yourself again, Ryder, you really should break that habit.”

He leans forward, and he has my full attention. The niceties are obviously over, now it’s straight to business.

“You need protection and I have the perfect candidate lined up.”

“A bodyguard?”

“Kind of.”

“He either is or isn’t.”

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