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“Well, he’s also at the top of mine.”
He smiles, but it’s sad at best and pitiful at worst. “Confidence is good, but no one has ever been able to win against Landon after he sets his sights on them.”
“There’s always a first. But hypothetically speaking, how far can he go?”
“You already know what he did to Killian because he pissed him off and to your brother because he was merely part of his plan. What you don’t know, however, is that he was probably behind the fire that destroyed half of the Heathens' mansion, just because they proved to be an annoyance.”
My lips part and I scribble furiously. “I thought the Serpents did it.”
“They did, but he’s the one who supplied them with the information they needed. Then he sat back and watched the entire show unfold from the sidelines. He’s that dangerous.”
That freaking bastard. Either I’m going to kill him or he kills me. No in-between.
I stuff my face with food and swallow without much chewing. I choke and start coughing, the obstruction blocking my windpipe.
Brandon reaches over and pats my back, then offers me a bottle of water. I gulp half of it down and do the “Thanks” sign.
He understands some of the basic sign language, and he’s really been putting an effort into learning more lately. That’s how much of a good person he is.
“You okay?” His eyes dip at the corners with genuine worry.
Why aren’t there two of him instead of that evil Landon?
“I’m fine. Thanks, Bran. Not only for this but also for covering my back with Niko the other day.”
He reads the words and I think I imagine a tic in his jaw before he nods. “I figured you could use some help.”
“But how did you know to answer correctly about Maya?”
“I suspected that if he was asking about her, then it regarded the two of you.”
“Smart.”
“I know, thanks.”
And there it is, a hint of his brother’s overwhelming arrogance. Though Bran’s is more subtle and definitely not overpowering.
“Were you in trouble with your brother?” he asks, looking at me from beneath his lashes.
“Nah. It was just Niko being Niko. He said not to get involved with you guys, considering the whole rivalry thing with the Heathens. He wasn’t hearing it when I told him you’re different, because he’s a hotheaded mule. Anyway, these games and meetings will have to be our secret wherever Niko is involved.”
His eyes flicker as he reads the text. “It’s not like I’m acquaintances with your brother, so you have nothing to worry about.”
Is it me or did he sound a bit too restrained just now?
“Bran!” A third presence barges through the gaming room door. “Have you seen my red Jordans? I swear to fuck one of these fuckers is hiding them and my lordship is going to break all hell loose…” He pauses upon seeing me and his expression transforms from annoyed to flirty. “Why, hello there. My day just got a whole lot better.”
“You were literally just threatening violence,” Bran retorts.
“Now, hush, Bran. Don’t be rude in front of the lady.” He offers me his hand and I shake it. “I’m Remington. Everyone calls me Remi, or your lordship for short. I have an aristocratic title and a fortune that can last for generations. May I know the name that goes with the beautifully graceful face?”
“Her name is Mia,” Bran says to him. “She can’t speak, but she can hear you just fine.”
Usually, people’s expressions either change to awkwardness, or most often pity, but this guy’s smile remains the same.
He’s a bit taller than Bran and has a straight nose and an easygoing, pleasant presence. “Why have you been keeping such beauty to yourself, Bran? I thought we were friends.”
“Leave her alone,” Bran says. “You’re not her type.”
