Page 115 of Coal Hearts

A splattering of dissent before Victor chuckled and held up his hand. “I know you’re all eager to try my new jewel, and I must admit, I’m eager too. As you know, some of you are part owners of those jewels that sparkle just a little bit brighter, so it should come as no surprise that Ily has already had interest in such an arrangement.”

The energy of the crowd billowed with intrigue.

My stomach churned as a few men stepped forward and raised their hands. “I would like to register my interest.”

“Me too.”

“Yep, me as well.”

“I’m in.”

Henri’s shoulders tensed. His lips thinned.

Victor nodded as each man stepped forward. “I expected there would be a few of you. That’s why I’ve decided to make this a public offering.”

“A what now?” Henri’s eyes snapped up, locking on Victor. “But you said—”

“I said I’m open to part ownership. And that I might give you that right. I didn’t say it was a done deal now, did I?”

Balling his hands, Henri wisely didn’t speak.

Roland, the large-bellied bastard who’d travelled with us from France, appeared. He smirked at Victor, nodding just once.

What was that look?

Victor grinned. “A friend had a suggestion last night that Ily’s uniqueness—her special interests and fierce intelligence—are not to be squandered. Apparently, I’ve managed to collect a rare gem indeed, so...let’s see just how rare, shall we?”

“One hundred thousand!” a man with a bushy moustache shouted. “I’ll pay one hundred thousand for part ownership.”

Henri’s mouth fell open. “The fuck? This is an auction? I thought we were taking care of—”

“Your uncomfortable case of blue balls?” Victor snickered. “Yes, we’re getting to that.” Waving his arm at the gathered men, he said, “Here’s what’s going to happen. Those interested in part-owning Ily will place their bids. The highest bid wins. I’m afraid to inform you, Ward, but the winner will naturally have to claim his prize. So...whoever pays the most will fuck her first.” He raised his arms in false surrender. “Now, before you get all pissy with me, you still have my word she’s yours for the weekend. Just because that first fuck is taken doesn’t mean you can’t have your fill. However...” His brows came down, shadowing his eyes. “Once the money clears from whoever buys her ownership stake, she will be theirs every night.”

“What’s the percentage of ownership?” Henri snapped.

“Seeing as I’m feeling gracious, let’s say...seventy-thirty. In my favour, of course.”

“Fifty-fifty.” Henri stiffened. “And I get to take her with me when I leave...providing I’m approved as a member.”

“Well, that’s asking far too much.” Victor’s temper appeared. “For your cheek, it’s now eighty-twenty. And that’s my final offer.” His smile was sly and snakish. “She’s still yours until tomorrow, Henri, regardless of this outcome.” His blue eyes shot to the crowd. “No one can say I’m not a man of my word.”

“You’re an honourable gent!” Someone chuckled.

“No one can deny it.” Another raised his glass.

Victor bowed.

Henri muttered a curse under his breath.

“What did you say?” Victor snapped upright.

Gritting his teeth, Henri snarled, “Nothing. I said nothing. Apart from...five hundred thousand.”

My heart stopped.

Once again, he put a monetary figure on my body and life.

Just how much money does he have?