1
DOMINIC
Istride through Purgatory’s dimly lit hallway, appreciating the low hum of chatter and desire that fills the club tonight. Adjusting my cufflinks, I make my way toward the VIP lounge, my territory within Xavier’s domain.
The door to Xavier’s office stands slightly ajar as I pass. I’m about to continue when a woman’s voice carries through the gap.
“Yes. Cora.”
I freeze mid-step.
“She’s the mayor’s daughter. Smart, capable. She’d be perfect for the Hunt.”
Xavier’s voice follows, but I’m no longer listening to their exchange. My mind races with possibilities, a plan forming instantly.
Mayor Pike. The self-righteous bastard who single-handedly blocked my waterfront development last year. The project that would have transformed that decrepit district into luxury condominiums. The deal that would have earned me millions.
I lean against the wall, thoughts crystallizing into purpose. Xavier owes me a favor after I handled that zoning issue for hisnew club location. The Hunt would be perfect—three days with the mayor’s precious daughter at my mercy.
Their conversation continues inside the office, but I’ve heard enough. I straighten my tie and continue down the hallway, the beginnings of satisfaction curling my lips into a smile.
Xavier’s final words drift after me as I turn the corner.
“Get some rest, Ms. Sullivan. You’ll need it for what’s coming in three days.”
A pause.
“And your friend won’t be coming.”
We’ll see about that.
I lean against the wall around the corner, scrolling through emails on my phone while waiting for the woman to leave. Patience isn’t typically my virtue, but for this opportunity, I’ll make an exception.
Finally, the click of heels signals her departure. I count to ten before pushing off the wall and striding toward Xavier’s office. No knocking—not for me. I simply push the door open and walk in like I own the place.
Xavier looks up from his desk, that dangerous edge in his eyes softening slightly when he recognizes me. Not many men can enter his space unannounced without consequences. I’m one of the exceptions.
“Interrupting something important?” I ask, knowing damn well I am.
“Nothing that can’t wait.” He leans back in his chair. “What brings you by, Dominic?”
I settle into the leather chair across from him without invitation. “I believe you owe me something, X.”
A flash of irritation crosses his face. Xavier Blackwood doesn’t like being reminded of his debts. “Do I?”
“Don’t play ignorant. It doesn’t suit you.” I adjust my cufflinks. “The downtown zoning board. Three months ago. Yournew club location would still be tied up in red tape if I hadn’t intervened.”
He gives the slightest nod. “I remember. What do you want?”
“I want an invitation to the Hunt for Cora Pike.”
His eyebrow raises. “The mayor’s daughter?”
“The very one.” I keep my expression. “I want her in the Hunt.”
Xavier studies me for a long moment. “You know we don’t typically invite more than five prey, and there are already five who agreed to participate.”
“And yet I overheard you discussing her potential inclusion with Ms. Sullivan.” I smile coldly. “Besides, exceptions can be made. You make the rules.”
