Page 57 of Twisted Lies

“Do you think he’s that intelligent?” Logan mutters.

“I think with all the surprises the last year, it’s possible,” Alex states, glancing in my direction.

“Either way, we need to find him and take care of the issue.”

I’m unsurprised by Logan’s words. I know Alex would have his head as soon as he saw him. Sebastian has gone too far on multiple occasions. He understands our laws and knows what happens when you betrayed family.

“Can I speak to you for a moment?” Alex asks me as he walks toward the other room.

“Oh yeah. You two have your powwow, and I’ll stand here. Don’t worry; I’ll take the coats if anyone comes over,” Logan says sarcastically, annoyed.

Once out of earshot, Alex asks, “Can you get your guy to look into his whereabouts? I have had my guys looking, but we’re coming up with nothing. He won’t expect you to get involved, and I know you have the ghost on your payroll. I know you want to keep that to yourself, but I would consider it a personal favor to find out what my brother’s next move is.” Considering his words, I know it would be best to stay out of this family drama. Right now, Sebastian is leaving my business alone. I know at some point that will change the longer he’s allowed to run loose, but I have other priorities. Save a problem for tomorrow by solving it today.

“I’ll see what I can do,” I finally respond. Before he can say anything, I leave to go back to Logan. I don’t need any thank yous from Alex. This isn’t a family bonding moment. It’s business. Lily has come downstairs and is talking to Logan. His mood has magically improved in her presence.

“When you grow bored of Elijah, feel free to knock on my door, day or night,” Logan offers with a wink. The growl rumbles deep in my chest. Lily steps close to my side, running her fingers down my back.

“I think that will be a cold day in hell,” she answers, reaching up to kiss my cheek. The grin slips into place as it always tends to do when she’s around.

“It’s all rainbows and butterflies till the bodies start dropping,” Logan mocks.

“You would know all about that,” Alex says, stepping forward to save his brother from me beating him half to death. Alex grips Logan’s shoulder and escorts him to the door. I can’t make out the muttered words they speak, but it doesn’t matter. The three of us are stuck working together for a while, at least. We each have something the other wants—good business for now.

“You good?” Lily asks.

“Yes. Of course. I need to make some calls. We’ll get lunch this afternoon,” I answer, giving her a quick kiss. I know she wants more of an explanation, but I can’t. She’s more entangled now than I want her to be. Closing my office doors, I lock her from my world the little bit that I can at the moment. Pulling out my cell, I scroll to the needed name and make the call.

“I need a favor.”

* * *

LILY

I’m messing with my pearl necklace as nerves race through my body when Claire bursts into the room.

“Wow. You look great. Red is your color,” she says, getting closer. My smile is weak as I take in my appearance and hope my stomach unties itself soon. The long red dress barely kisses my ankles while my feet are already starting to feel the effects of the four inch black heels. Claire looks stunning in her one shoulder golden dress and shoes. Her ears and neck shine with diamonds. She appears accustomed to wearing heels.

“Right back at you. I’m guessing there’s no way I can fake a headache and get out of this?” I ask, knowing the answer. The party has been in the works for the past two weeks. Claire is being reintroduced to the Families, causing Elijah and Alex to be more on edge than usual.

“You’re out of luck, but if it makes you feel any better, we all have butterflies tonight.”

“Not feeling any better,” I mutter, twisting one of the loose curls back tight against my head.

“It will get better, don’t worry. It’s just a big party.”

“A big party with a bunch of Mafia men. What could go wrong?”

“Get the blood flowing, if nothing else,” Claire says, smiling. She grabs hold of my arm and pulls me away from the mirror. “Time to face the music.” Breathing out the air I wasn’t aware I was holding, I follow her downstairs to Alex and Elijah. I enjoy watching Elijah’s face as I walk down the stairs. Claire tugs Alex away, leaving just us.

“What do you think?” I ask, doing a slight spin. Mid-circle, he tugs me into his arms.

“I think we cancel the whole damn thing and kick my sister and Alex out for the rest of the night.”

“You’re the boss,” I respond, smiling as he bends only a little bit now because of the heels to kiss me.

“Yes. Yes, I am. Unfortunately, because I am once again, we have the joy of doing the policies. But after, you’re all mine.”

“I like the sound of that.”

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