Page 5 of Dark Desire

“Hello.” She smiled as she handed out drinks to the guys openly ogling her. I let out a low growl without realizing it, causing her to shoot me a shocked glare. “If you need anything else, let me know. I’ll leave you alone and make sure no one disturbs you.”

“Thanks.” I watched as she walked out, my eyes trailing her backside as she did. It was the first time I really noticed how beautiful she was.

Bastian chuckled, drawing my attention to him. “Your manager is a real looker.”

“She’s off limits.” I grunted, shocked at the possessiveness that burst to the surface. “She knows nothing about this part of the business and for now, we need to keep it that way.”

“My apologies. I meant no disrespect.” Bastian held his hand up. “I only meant she is a beautiful woman.”

Letting out a frustrated breath, I shook my head. “Sorry I snapped. I am a bit on edge. Dmitri has attacked our family multiple times. I want his head on a spike.”

“Trust me. We understand. That’s why this alliance has come at a good time.” Matias patted Bastian’s back. “Let us come up with a plan. I want his head as much as you do… but first I need to find Katya.”

We continued our conversation and planned how we would hunt him down. We would work the locals here in Vegas, while Miguel handled searching the warehouses. Bidding everyone farewell, I found Riley in the back office.

“Everything okay with your family?” Her genuine concern tugged at my heart.

“Yes. Nothing you need to be concerned with.” I stepped around her and picked up a towel. “How are things here? I know I’ve been absent, but you can tell me if there are any issues.”

“Everything is wonderful. You have a fantastic staff and system in place. I don’t have to do much.” She shrugged, brushing off my concern.

“You don’t give yourself enough credit, Riley. My absence would have a negative impact on the staff if you weren’t here to keep things running. So, thank you for that.” I tossed the dish rag onto the counter and leaned against it. “Tell me about you. I feel like I haven’t taken the time to get to know you.”

She fidgeted nervously. “What do you mean?”

“I know your references had a lot to say about you, but beyond your resume, I don’t really know you. Tell me what you do outside of being a chef.”

“I’m afraid I’m boring. I work, go home, and then do it all again the next day. I don’t have time for anything else.”

“That does sound boring. Surely a beautiful woman as yourself makes time for more… pleasurable things.” I noticed the blush that creeped up her neck at my words.

“No. I’m afraid not.” I watched as she ran her fingers through her hair, making me wonder why she was lying.

“You shouldn’t deny yourself a little fun. Vegas is the city that never sleeps. Go out, enjoy what the city has to offer.”

“Is that what you do? Enjoy yourself?” My cock hardened at her question.

If only she knew the depravity I partook in, she would run from this room. “When I can, yes. Everyone needs a little excitement in their life. Be sure to take advantage of that before you run out of time. We don't know what tomorrow brings.” I turned and walked out before pausing outside in the hallway. “Life is full of choices. Sometimes we make good ones, sometimes we make bad ones. The ones we make in between are what fill us with purpose. Go find your purpose, Riley. You’re too young to live such a dull life.”

Four

Riley

I sat at my desk, surfing through information about the Anastasi family. My phone vibrated beside me on the table, drawing my attention from the computer. Glancing, I unlocked the screen and groaned when I saw who it was.

How’s the job?

Rolling my eyes, I typed out my response.

Going as expected. Anything new on your end?

I went back to sifting through the photos of the family online. Vincenzo was even more handsome in person and the pictures I'd found didn't do him any justice. My phone bounced across the surface of the desk, alerting me to another text.

No. Nothing to report here. I’ll check in again in a few days. Good luck.

I sent a quick response and tossed the phone aside. Closing the laptop, I stood. I was feeling restless and needed to release some pent-up energy before going to work. Noting the time, I decided to visit Fantasia again. It was one of the first places I sought when I moved to Vegas. At first, I was afraid to risk joining the club, knowing who owned the place. But I knew privacy was of the utmost concern at Fantasia, so I took the chance I'd stay unknown.

My carnal desires needed an outlet, and it provided me the sanctuary to do so without the fear of being found out. When Vincenzo asked what I did for pleasure, I wanted to tell him he knew already, but keeping my identity secret was paramount for many reasons.

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