Page 40 of Lethal Salvation

“Yes, but there are conditions.”

Carter cocked his head to Gideon, and Duchess watched a tick in his jaw. He didn’t like this. He was chafing to throw his weight around.

“And they are?”

“I want in on whatever kickback you’re taking from this, and don’t lie and tell me there isn’t one. We both know you don’t do anything unless it benefits you in some way.”

Carter smirked and Duchess wanted to punch him in the face but that was more Lotus’ style than hers.

“Are you sure you want your plaything around for this?” Carter eyed her again and Gideon stiffened.

“She isn’t a toy. She’s going to be my wife.”

Shock spread over her at his pronouncement, and also a profound sense of longing, which she wouldn’t unpack right now. She recovered quickly when he reached for her hand, letting Gideon pull her closer so she was standing at his back.

“A wife you say? Well, isn’t that a development? I had no idea you were serious.”

“It’s been a whirlwind.”

“In that case, let me be the first to congratulate you. Or does Damon already know?”

Duchess detected jealousy in Carter’s tone and wondered if that was the root cause of the discord in this family, flamed by a socially climbing mother.

“You’re the first.”

“Well then, congratulations. We must host a party for you.”

“We’ll be attending the black-tie ball this year, that will be sufficient.”

“You will?”

“Yes, Damon too. It’s past time this family put the past behind us and moved on from tiny slights.”

“I agree.” Carter looked guarded again and she knew Gideon needed to dial back the happy family speech. He must have felt it too because he shifted slightly.

“Plus, a deal with Macey could be beneficial to us both and a solid stance would be a good look for the board.”

Carter sneered. “That’s more like it, Gideon. I thought you’d gone soft for a second there.”

“Not soft, pragmatic.”

“What is it you think I can help you with or bring you in on?”

“I know you have something on Tarquin Green.”

Carter cocked his head. “What is it you think I have?”

“Really, Carter, you expect me to lay all my cards on the table when you won’t reveal any?”

Carter frowned but then chuckled. “Well, you’re right. I do have something and it will allow us to get the deal done at a fraction of the cost.”

“I can see how that will help me but what’s in it for you?”

“Access to their shipping routes and a legitimate transportation for the models we’ll be moving around the world as part of the fashion house.”

“Models?”

“Yes, I have a new batch that I believe will work well for us and it cuts the red tape. A fashion house is perfect.”