It makes everything about this entire predicament worse. Petrovs and Abruzzos don't dine with O'Malleys. In my world, they either cross the street on opposite sides or end up in the ground. Standing in front of two of them, without any backup, isn't smart. So I wonder again how Sean's father ever created this demented secret world I've been forced to entertain.
Kirill's scar twitches over his jaw. It's the worst imperfection I've ever seen on a man's face.
How did he get it?
He thinks he's going to threaten me?
He's got another thing coming.
My laugh comes out hotter than I want. "You think you're the first to try and recruit me? Don't flatter yourself."
"I know all about the gangs on the street who wanted the homeless boy who refused to join them," he replies in a flat tone.
My gut coils. How does he know anything about me? Valentina didn't seem to, so how does he?
Kirill threatens, "Don't confuse choice with illusion. You can't run from the Underworld."
I snarl, "Don't dress your threats in velvet."
"Brax," Valentina warns through gritted teeth.
I don't look at her, and now I'm glad I didn't fuck her.
She's an Abruzzo.
Kirill moves closer. "You misunderstand power."
"You don't own me now. Nor will you in the future," I declare, standing taller.
Sympathy appears on his expression. He lowers his tone. "The Omni have given their orders. You fall in line or fall in blood. Take your pick."
"You think you scare me?" I fume, stepping closer.
Valentina jumps between us. She puts her hand on my chest and sparks burst under her touch, making me loathe myself. She asserts, "You're acting rash."
I scoff, "Rash? Nah. I'm the only sane one in the room."
Worry fills her hazel gaze. I want to kiss her and push her away.
She's the enemy.
Kirill interjects, "I'm giving you a 24-hour pass so you can get your senses back. Valentina will mentor you."
My eyes dart between him and her.
Valentina's jaw tightens. She opens her mouth, but Kirill speaks first.
"You will train him. He will learn. You will live," he finishes, pointing at me.
Chaos fills my chest, reminding me of how hard it was to breathe in the other penthouse. I ask, "Do you know what happens when you force someone to be your project?"
No one speaks.
I don't take my eyes off Kirill's and add, "You end up regretting it."
His lips twitch. "We'll see about that. Like I said. I'll give you 24 hours to choose your role in the Underworld or death. It'll be up to you."
The same alarm I felt when I got caught watching Sean fight seeps into my bones. I sniff hard and ask, "Anything else you need to tell me?"
