"Morning, Vito," I reply, and grab the throw, smiling. Leave it to Kirill to know I'd be too hot to put on more clothes inside, but colder once I got out here.
Brax moves next to me, still shirtless. "You can't tell me you're putting that on?"
I unfold it and place it over my legs, then slide into the hoodie. I drag my eyes over his glistening pecs. "Put your shirt on."
"No. I'm still hot."
Vito growls, "Ms. Valentina said to put it on." He eyes Brax through the rearview mirror.
Brax grunts. "She's not my boss."
Vito spins, and Brax lunges forward, grabbing his throat.
"Brax!" I cry out.
Vito's face turns red. He gasps.
"Let him go!" I order, tugging on his arm.
Brax turns toward me. "No one is going to threaten me. Understand?"
"Let him go!" I demand again.
He stares Vito in the eyes for a few more seconds, then says, "I'm going to release you now. Don't ever try to come at me again." He releases him.
Vito chokes, sputtering for air.
"Jesus, Brax!" I scold.
"You should get a driver who can protect you," Brax states.
"He can," I seethe.
Brax sits back in the seat and puts his ankle over his knee. "He just put you in a compromising position if I wanted to hurt you."
I gape at him.
Is he right?
Brax directs, "Drive. The king is waiting for us."
Vito stares at him through the mirror.
Brax puts the divider glass up. "Seriously, Minx. You need a better driver if he's supposed to also be security."
The SUV veers onto the road.
"Put on your shirt so you don't disrespect the king," I order then stare at my hands, replaying what just happened.
The ride to Kirill's is quiet and short. The SUV pulls to the curb in front of the glass tower, black and gleaming against the gray morning.
Brax is already halfway out the door before Vito can get out. He glances up the building with a suspicious squint, making me believe he's cataloging every window, camera, and any possible way out.
I step beside him. "Don't stare too long. It makes them nervous."
He meets my eye. "Maybe they should be."
"Don't be stupid." I push past him. The sliding doors part, and warm air scented with polished wood and espresso wraps around me. Two men in suits straighten and nod.
