An AI creature designed to cater to every whim and fantasy. A sex doll for the rich and depraved.
Ugh, sick bastard.
I suppress a shudder, forcing a smile. “Two whiskeys, neat.”
She nods, her movements fluid and precise. I watch as she pours the amber liquid, the bottles glinting like jewels in the low light.
I slide a handful of bills across the bar, my eyes darting around the room. No one’s paying me any attention. They’re all too caught up in their own debauchery to notice little old me.
Perfect.
Reaching into my bra, my fingers close around the small vial.
With a deft movement, I uncork it, tipping the contents into the drink on the right. The poison dissolves instantly, leaving no trace.
I tuck the empty vial back into my bag, my heart racing. It’s done. I’m past the point of no return.
Picking up the glasses, the whiskey sloshes gently. Now, to find Kuznetsov.
I turn to Barbie on the Rocks, pasting on my most charming smile. “I’m looking for the…PakhanKuznetsov. I don’t suppose you could point me in his direction?”
Pressing down on my lip, I struggle to keep a laugh under wraps. Fuck, this feels allkinds of wrong, getting info from a doll dressed for the bedroom.
She tilts her head, her eyes flickering. For a moment, I swear I see a flash of knowing in their depths. But then it’s gone, replaced by a blank, artificial smile.
“Of course, madam. Mr. Kuznetsov is in the VIP lounge. Just follow the hallway to the left. You can’t miss it.”
I nod my thanks.
I make my way down the hallway, the drinks clutched in my hands. My palms are slick with sweat, my stomach churning with nerves.
I pause outside the VIP lounge, taking a deep breath. This is it. The moment I’ve been waiting for.
I shouldn’t be surprised that he’s not alone.
Right, like I thought I’d catch him deep in a book club discussion?
Of course, there’s a woman draped over him, her dress barely more than a scrap of lace. She’s running her fingers through his hair, her lips brushing his ear.
Something hot and bitter rises in my throat.
Jealousy?
I almost laugh.
Of the man I’m here to kill? It’s ridiculous.
I clear my throat. “Sorry to break up the party.”
They both look up, startled. The woman’s eyes narrow as she takes me in, her gaze roaming over my dress, my mask.
But I only have eyes for him.
His eyes widen in surprise as he sees me, recognition flickering in their depths. He stands slowly, unfolding his long frame from the couch.
“But I’ve got unfinished business withPakhanKuznetsov,” I finish, my voice steady despite the pounding of my heart.
The woman pouts, reaching for him, but he brushes her off.
