Page 18 of Vengeful Union

I cross my arms over my chest. “Hit a nerve, did I?”

He takes two strides until he’s face to face with me. He’s breathing hard, his chest rising and falling rapidly as his nostrils flare. Yes, I definitely hit a nerve.

“You’d best watch your mouth,” he growls.

I just smile sweetly at him. “You gonna hit me?” I taunt him.

There’s one thing I know, and that’s killers. People who have that edge to them. Bannon hasn’t got it in him. There’s no way he’d hurt a fly, let alone lay a finger on me.

“Careful what you wish for, Destiny. You do not know who you’re messing with here.”

I roll my eyes at his lame attempt at being cryptic. “You mean Psycho Finn? Yeah, we all know about the asshole’s treatment of those who go against the Clann. But my question to you, Bannon, is: what do you think Psycho Boy’s going to do to you when he finds out you’re a cop?”

His eyes widen and he takes a step backward, his eyelids twitching. Jesus, how the fuck did this guy get this close to Finn? Is this really how one of the most feared organizations conducts themselves?

“You’re really not at all who everyone thinks you are, are you?” he says quietly, almost as though he’s afraid of being overheard. “Just how deep in your father’s business are you?”

My smile is less than friendly. “And why would I be telling you that?”

There’s no way I’ll ever tell the truth. If I do, I’ll be slaughtered immediately. If the Clann finds out I’ve taken over my mother’s position, they’ll be out for blood.

“Tread extremely carefully, Destiny. You poke the bear, and he’ll claw at you.”

I don’t bother answering him. It’s something Bannon will never understand. We’re all shaped into who we are. I was molded into taking over from my mom at a very young age. I learned from her, studied how she acted, tunneled her energy, and used it to become who I am. Bannon studies me. “I’ve cautioned you. That’s all I can do.”

“Now it’s my turn to do the same. What you’re doing here is dangerous. If I can figure out you don’t belong here, and I met you just two weeks ago, don’t you think the Gallagher’s already know?” I give him a pointed look when he swallows harshly. “Walk away. Make your escape before you end up six feet under.”

A pained look crosses his face. “I can’t,” he whispers.

A shadow falls behind Bannon, and I give him a hard look, hoping it’ll shut him up. Thankfully, he does as the shadow moves further into the room.

“Bannon, leave,” the deep, husky voice of Finn Gallagher calls out. “Go to my office and wait for me,” he instructs as he steps closer to us, moving out of the shadow and into the room.

My heartrate spikes as I take him in. His chiseled jaw is clenched as he glares at both Bannon and me. His hair is a little longer than it was the last time I saw him, and he has a five o’clock shadow on his face. I give a quick glance down at his body, and my mouth waters when I see just how well he fits his suit. I can still remember how good it felt being in his arms. God, he’s sexy as hell, but he’s the biggest asshole I’ve ever met.

Bannon leaves the room, leaving Finn and I alone. I stare at him, refusing to let him see how he affects me.

“Finished checking me out?” he says with a raised brow.

I don’t back down. I will never back down and show fear. “Just wondering if it’s true.”

His brows knit together. “If what’s true?”

I smirk at him. “If you’re as psycho as they claim.”

He flashes me a shark’s grin. “Oh, little girl, you have no fucking idea who I am.”

I bristle at him calling me little girl. This man is going to drive me crazy.

“Ah, Psycho Boy,” I taunt him, “I know exactly who you are.” He tenses at that. “You’re the man who got pushed aside in favor of his younger sister. The one who got overlooked for being the Boss, and now, you’re in her shadow.” I tut at him.

Wicked fast, his hand fists in my hair and he pulls hard, making my head snap back, and I brace for whatever is about to come.

“Listen to me,” he growls, his lips close to my ear, making me shiver. “You do not want to test me. I’m not one to trifle with.”

“Sure. Whatever you say.”

His hand tightens in my hair. “You’re pushing it, little girl.”

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