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“You can blame your fucking officiant for that.”
We both turn at the sound of Hades’ voice as he saunters through the door.
“And what, may I ask, is wrong with Elsa?”
He groans. “How is that I’m the only one who’s bothered by that fucking stick up her ass?”
“I don’t know, and I don’t care,” Ares growls. “Leave Elsa Guin the fuck alone, man. I’m still working on wooing her away from Crown and Black to be our full-time Drakos family attorney.”
“Just buy an air conditioner,” Hades mutters. “Won’t cool the roomquiteas fast as that chick, but it’ll be a hell of a lot cheaper.”
Ares sighs, turning to me. “Seriously, I can’t with this guy, I’m out. Congratulations, Cillian. See you down there.”
I shake his hand before watching him hobble back out the door.
“Well, there goes his Olympic hurdler dream.”
I roll my eyes at Hades. When I see the grin fade from his face, I frown.
“What’s up?”
“Look, recent events notwithstanding, I usually agree that Drakos business stays Drakos business, and Kildare business stays Kildare business…”
I nod. That’s the basis of the truce between our families: we present a united front against attacks, but when it comes to business, we keep ourselves to ourselves, unless it’s a special arrangement.
“…but,” Hades grunts, “this might concern you, too.”
“I’m listening.”
“Does the name Leo Stavrin mean anything to you?”
My jaw clenches.
It sure fucking does.
“Of course. Topavtoritetin the Reznikov Bratva. One of Gavan Tsarenko’s most powerful underlings—”
“With a reputation of being about as fucking nuts as you are. No offense.”
I lift a shoulder. “Your point?”
“One of my guys is dating a Russian girl. Her brother is a foot soldier under Stavrin. Her brother isalsoa mouthy drunk, and apparently told her there’s been talk of making moves.” His eyes narrow. “Againstourassets. Both Drakos, and Kildare.”
My jaw grinds. “Why the fuck would they be stupid enough to try that?”
He shrugs. “No idea. It could be nothing, just bullshit or vodka-fueled chest-thumping. But thought I’d pass it along.”
“I appreciate it.”
“Anytime.” He clears his throat. “Guess this sort of means our paths won’t be crossing again at Club Venom anytime soon.”
“I’d stabmy owneyes out if they ever did,” I grunt. “But no. I’m done there.”
I’m done with a lot of my avenues and outlets. I don’t need them anymore.
He glances around Castle’s bedroom before his eyes land on the flowers still in the vase by the bed. Hades chuckles as he walks over and reaches for the card. “Who sent poor widdle Castle flower—” His face goes dark before his eyes drag up to mine. “Callie?”
I shrug. “He did save her from that wrecking ball.”
