I expect you know about The Association. I’m sure they haven’t left ourfamily alone.
You see, the original intent when your grandfather and his friends started it wasn’t to take over the world.
I gasp, my hand flying to my chest.
Theoriginalsixth family. That was us?
“What?” Rex asks. “What is it, Lana?”
I hold up a finger and keep reading.
It was a beautiful vision—combining our wealth to make the world a better place. No more wars, no more starvation, pooling our funds for medical research.
But your grandfather told me things went horribly wrong. An argument broke out among friends, and one of them was killed.
Your grandfather was a witness. He had photos, letters, and incriminating evidence showing it was all premeditated.
Five families against one.
He withdrew, disappeared from the spotlight, but he keptthe evidence.
Just in case. Insurance to protect us.
It was his biggest regret not stopping The Association before they grew too powerful. When I turned thirty-five, he entrusted that evidence to me.
Leverage to ensure our family remains safe.
And with regret, I do the same to you. Your brothers will be in the spotlight—they always underestimate the women in our world. My hope is you’ll never have to use this evidence, only to keep it in your back pocket should our family be threatened.
I’m sorry I can’t explain more. I’m sure it’s shocking and terrifying.
But my Lana, from your first cry, your little fists punching the air, I knew you were the strongest of my children. You can bear the burden.
I love you forever and ever.
Mom
My mind reels. My eyes unfocused, I flip the letter to the camera so my brothers can read Mom’s words.
I’ve always wondered why The Association stopped short of killing us when my brothers defied them in the past. It isn’t their MO to let their opponents live.
And now I know why.
“Fuck,” Rex mutters.
“That’s it. We’re pulling you out. I’m sending a security team for extraction,” Maxwell says, already typing. “You’re a sitting duck. They’ll never let you live after they get the evidence. Them not getting it—or you—is our only shot.”
“I’ll call the others in,” Rex adds, eyes flashing. “Can’t keep them in the dark anymore.” He fishes out his phone—
“No!” I shoot to my feet. The stool crashes to the floor with a loud thud.
“Lana!” Elias bursts through the door, eyes wild, gun drawn, Ren fast at his heels.
“I’m fine.” I close my eyes and blow out an exhale.
His cologne wraps around me, followed by his heat at my back.
I sink into his embrace as his arms circle my waist and he presses a kiss on my hair.
