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They’re not saying what I think they are…

Reaching forward I yanked the curtain back and six pairs of eyes snapped to me the same time as I stared down three different barrels.

“Antonio is smarter than that.” I crossed my arms over my chest. “It’s a good plan, don’t get me wrong.” I shifted my eyes to Marcus, then Matteo, and finally a gentleman I didn’t know.

Slowly, they shared glances and lowered their guns.

“You’re missing one little thing.”

Marcus grinned, stepping forward. “Yeah? And what’s that?”

I stepped toward him. “Me.”

CHAPTER 18

Antonio

Nirah was devious. Calculating.

So when she found herself at my side after having disappeared, her presence unsettled me. More than usual, that is.

“What are you up to?” I asked as she lifted the glass to her lips. She rolled her eyes then turned her back on me. “The silent treatment is immature, wouldn’t you say?” I stepped up behind her and she finished her drink.

She seemed too calm for my liking, especially after dancing with that mother fucker who couldn’t keep his hands to himself.

I stepped on the dance floor to cut his hands off but instead Nirah was spun off and landed in my arms.

It didn’t mean I’d forgotten. I’d simply reschedule his mutilation.

I lifted my hand to gently run the back of my four fingers down her bare arm. “If you’re still upset about last night—”

“I’m not.” She stepped forward, putting some distance between us. Then, she glanced over her shoulder. “Now get away from me.”

The hairs on the back of my neck rose and when I turned my head, Marcus’ heavy gaze was glued to us. To her.

The muscle in my jaw ticked. I’ll kill him.

I stepped past her but she grabbed my bicep with wide eyes, stopping me. “Don’t cause a scene.”

“Were you just with him?” I looked down at her.

“What? No.”

“I can tell when you’re lying, Nirah.” I turned to face her fully and she stepped closer.

“Fine. I was. But not intentionally.” She quickly clarified. “I wanted to find the bathroom and ran into him. I tried to get away but you know as much as I do how much of a creep he is.”

“Did he touch you?”

“Of course not.” She stepped back. “I wouldn’t let him and walked away. I’m sure that’s why he’s pissed, that’s all.” Lie.

To convey the idea that I wasn’t onto her, I simply nodded.

She subtly exhaled in relief.

“Did you find the bathroom?”

She shook her head. “No.” Then she turned to face me. “You can help me. Let’s go.” She grabbed my hand and led me away from the crowd.