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We had to separate, but always knew the only way we could get what we wanted was by silently working together. Helping each other in any way we could.
And it worked.
“But you could be even more powerful if you did.” Victor offers the same suggestion Beck did the last night I saw his face.
The suggestion I immediately shot down before walking away from the only family any of us had left, forcing them to do the same.
Because I know how vulnerable caring about someone makes you. How dangerous it can be for them.
I’ve avoided it since the day my father tried to teach me a lesson in power and control.
One that would have left Beck dead if my father had his way.
It was the first time any of my brothers beat me at chess. The first time any of them beat me at anything.
Beck managed to check my king. He was elated. Proud beyond measure.
Until my father put his gun in my hand and demanded I kill him.
I was supposed to be the heir. The one who would carry not only his name but the legacy he built.
The lesson was to protect it at all costs.
And I failed.
He beat Beck within an inch of his life. Made me watch each blow.
I felt every one as if it was hitting my own body.
A lesson was learned that day. Just not the one my father intended.
“I disagree.” I stand. “If people knew we were brothers we could be used against each other.” It’s an outcome I don’t care to experience again. “I’m not interested in allowing anyone to exploit that kind of a weakness.”
“You mean like they will with Paisley?”
I ignore the connection Victor is trying to make.
I know I should think of Paisley as a liability. A vulnerable spot in the armor I’ve built.
It’s what I tried to portray her to be.
But I don’t feel weaker with Paisley at my side.
Especially considering the things I will do to keep her there.
* * *
JULIAN GREETSME as I step out of the car. “That was quick.”
“I have a party to plan.” I follow behind him as he leads me through the mass of trampled snow blanketing Central Park. “How far did he run?”
Julian glances my way over one shoulder, flashing me a smirk. “Farther than he had to.” He pats his stomach. “I needed the exercise since your lady insists on buying me a burger and fries every time she drags me out with her.”
“Does he know why he’s here?” It shouldn’t matter to me, but it does.
I want it to be clear what happens to anyone who hurts Paisley.
Not that he’ll be around to pass that information on.
