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“And the Michelsons own a lot of hotels and deal in real estate,” I said, but then sarcastically, I added, “Not to mention they’re the creators of the new and improved illegal fighting operation.”
Annika balked a little, but she nodded in agreement. “That’s right. The Michelsons get a cut of the profits with the fights, even if their guys aren’t the ones fighting.”
That didn’t surprise me. “So basically, Nikolai will make money off you tonight.”
“Yep,” she replied. “He’s the mastermind of the operation. It’s how all this works. But if the Michelsons want something built, they must go through my family since we control construction. We get a cut of their profits. So in a sense, we all fund each other.” She cleared her throat. “Now, if someone tries to hide their earnings, that’s when things get ugly.”
I held up a hand. “No need to explain. I think I get it.”
I knew what they were capable of. I just didn’t want to be reminded. Was there a part of me afraid to be surrounded by a bunch of murderers and extortionists? You better believe it. I was terrified, but I had to be strong.Show no weakness.
When we pulled up at Finn’s place, the driveway was empty, whereas there were a bunch of cars last time. I got out and followed Annika to the door. “Are you the only one fighting for the Sellingers tonight?”
Annika opened the door and turned to me, her expression tired. “Yes. It’s only the females fighting tonight. If I win, I’m curious to see who challenges me for next week.”
She was to fight Mila Porcello tonight. I had no clue who she was or what she looked like, but Annika said she could beat her. Guess we were going to find out soon.
My phone started to ring just as Annika walked inside. She turned and waved for me to enter, but I held up a hand. “Give me one sec. I’ll be right in.”
She nodded once. “Okay.”
The door shut and I took a few steps away from the house as I reached into my bag for my cell.Please don’t let it be Braden. Relief washed over me when I saw it was Emma.
“Hey,” I answered.
“Hey. What are you doing?”
I glanced up at Finn’s house. “Getting ready to go shopping with Annika,” I lied.
“That sounds like fun. Is she taking Peyton’s place?”
“Not even close.”
Emma giggled. “I’m just kidding. Honestly, I’m just glad to hear that you’re getting out and away from the gym. I swear, sometimes I think you live there.” I couldn’t argue with her there.
“Trust me,” I said, peering around at the opulent grounds, “I’ve been getting out.”
“Good. Okay, so I’m calling because I have some good news.”
“What is it?”
“Well, it’s a couple of things, actually,” she replied, sounding happy. “First, I got a call from Quinn. Our Vegas friends have been conspiring with our brother.”
“Oh hell,” I laughed. “And what are they up to?”
Emma chuckled. “Kase wants to throw a huge reunion party for all of us at the club at the end of November. He and our brother decided it’s something we need to do every other month or so. Kase also said it’d be an after-wedding party for Carter and me, combined with a congratulatory one for all you fighters. He’s adamant that you will win all your matches in Vegas that weekend. Quinn and Thea are going to cater it.”
Quinn Rushing and Thea Bennett worked at K&B’s Bistro, owned by their mothers. It would belong to them one day when their moms retired. So I wasn’t surprised when Quinn and Thea chose the restaurant instead of following their father’s footsteps into the fighting world like Kali and me. It was a good thing, too, because I would’ve had to fight against them.
“Sounds like fun,” I said, smiling. “I can only imagine what Kase has in store for that shindig.” Kase never liked to do anything half-assed. If he was going to throw a party, it would undoubtedly be the biggest event in Vegas. It was exciting to think of all the trouble Braden and I could get into while in Sin City.
“You’re not kidding,” Emma replied. “Make sure to block that evening off on your calendar. I already know you’ll be in Vegas for your match.”
“I wouldn’t miss it.”
“Good. And just so you know, I’m super excited about our getaway next weekend.”
“So am I,” I agreed. Hopefully, Emma wouldn’t be disappointed with where I was taking her. I chose a low-key place where we could relax and enjoy the tranquility of small-town life. “And what’s the second bit of good news?” I asked.
