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“Daughter!” Vladimir huffed.
It seemed everyone knew my business. There were no secrets inside the family. None.
Tatiana giggled and grabbed Candy’s hand. There was something almost normal about the moment, although I wasn’t a good judge. When Candy turned her head, her eyes held the same sense of longing that I knew could be seen in mine.
Sighing, I ordered a bourbon, more out of appearance than anything.
“She’s beautiful,” Vladimir stated. While he flanked my side, he remained turned in the other direction, keeping a close eye on the room.
“She wants nothing to do with me.” My God, the sound of my voice made it almost unrecognizable.
He darted a quick glance. “That’s too bad. I can tell how important she’s become to you. You’d be surprised what some time apart can do.”
“I’m not holding my breath. I assume we’re making the offer tonight?”
Vladimir waved to someone in the room. “Yes. News of Yuri’s disappearance has already spread.”
I gritted my teeth. “I should have known it wouldn’t remain off the radar for long.”
“These things never do. I suggest we get this over with so we can enjoy the evening.”
I waited for my drink, searching until I caught glimpse of Candy before trailing behind him. Alexei managed to convince Walsh that it was in his best interest to follow us into Vladimir’s private office, Sevastian closing the door after everyone was inside. He would ensure no one entered the room.
“If this is your attempt at coercing me into giving you carte blanche with regard to your project, you don’t know me very well,” Michael huffed then guzzled some of his drink. I was able to gather the stench of scotch from where I stood. “And if you think you’re going to influence me with Candy’s presence, then think again.”
Jesus Christ. The man couldn’t care less about his own flesh and blood. Bastard.
Alexei chuckled and moved to one of the chairs, making himself at home.
“Mr. Walsh, it would seem that you have no understanding of what is actually going on within your precious council.” Vladimir continued to beam. The man was in his element.
Michael snorted, lowering his head and inhaling the fumes from his drink.
“Why don’t we make it easier for the man,” I said, keeping my tone flat. “I’m certain you’re aware of the name Shane Dunnigan.”
He laughed, as if I was telling a joke. “That pompous pinhead? He’s worthless.”
“No longer the case,” Alexei added. “Your boy, Rory O’Leary. Do you realize who his father was?”
“Of course I do. So what?” Michael asked, still laughing. “His father was ousted long before I came into the picture.”
“Ah, but that’s not true. Is it?” I grinned and walked in front of him, staring him in the eyes. “You were the one who leaked the information that he was involved with the Irish mob, the pinhead you were talking about? Only that was nothing more than a fabrication. Correct?” I loved it when I was right. “It would appear that Rory found out. Now, since his father killed himself after losing almost everything, Rory took it upon himself to take revenge on the person who was responsible. You.”
“That’s bullshit.” Michael tried to walk away, but Vladimir stopped him from moving.
“I suggest you listen to what the man has to say,” Vladimir said quietly.
“Not only did Rory abduct Candy, but he planned on running for your seat in November, and from what I understand, he had enough support to win.”
“However, that was only the beginning. You see, Rory was tightly connected with Shane. In fact, they were very good friends. They even grew up together,” Alexei took over from me.
“I just saw Candy a few minutes ago. You’re bluffing.” Michael cursed under his breath.
“Think again, old man. Kirill is the only reason she’s alive. She’s currently under his protection, where she will stay unless you don’t accept the deal we’re prepared to offer you,” Alexei stated, grinning.
“If you dare hurt her, I will kill you.” Poor Michael’s face turned beet red.
“You don’t have enough followers, Walsh. Nobody cares about your commitment to the union, although I’m beginning to wonder if the sole reason for that is because of the kickbacks you receive.” As soon as I saw the nervous tic appear in the corner of his mouth, I knew my hunch was right. I could tell Vladimir was grinning, rolling forward and backward on his feet.
