He sat in the hotel lobby bar, fingering the rim of his glass as he waited for Ashley’s arrival. Hearing his phone, he sighed, his gut telling him who was on the other end of the line.
His father.
This particular hit was just as important to the family as it was to members of the group who’d hired him. Maybe more so since millions of dollars were on the line. If Stephen Wallace brought what some experts considered the most reputable database system in the world to the forefront, various stocks owned by members of the group would plummet.
Including his father’s. Benedetto Constantino wasn’t a patient man nor was he forgiving, even for one of his sons. There would be hell to pay at home.
And Wrath’s reputation would be dropped into a cesspool.
There was also an additional and more viable reason for the hit, although certainly not something he could discuss with theconsortium. Maybe he was getting soft in his old age. He snorted at the thought.
“Father. How are you?”
“I understand that Mr. Wallace has had a change in plans.” Benedetto spoke rapidly, no doubt busy being serviced by one of his concubines.
“He has, but not to worry. I have reason to believe he’s somewhere in town. The man will have yet another alteration within the next two days.” He laughed then took a sip of his drink. He was taking another significant chance by having Ashley on his arm, especially since she’d inquired about him. Granted, leaving her shackled to the bed hadn’t been one of his better decisions, but he’d anticipated hunting Mr. Wallace and completing his mission the night before.
Then leaving town before the real authorities arrived.
If the Americans got wind of the contract, they would send reinforcements soon enough.
Luck certainly wasn’t in his favor. At least the young hotel clerk was quite amenable, choosing the decision to live rather than running to the appropriate authorities. Wrath’s cover was intact at least for the remainder of the time he was in Monaco.
Why not enjoy his time while he waited? His decision had been made. Maybe his luck would change after all.
“That better happen, son, or you fully understand the ramifications of what will occur.” Benedetto had a snarl in his voice, the threat one he’d give to any of the men he trusted in his consortium.
Wrath snickered. “Don’t worry, Father. Everything is under control. Have I failed you yet?”
“We shall see, Ricardo. You know what’s at stake here.”
“As always. I am the best at what I do.”
His father was the one to end the call, taking only the minimal amount of time to conduct business. Granted, Benedetto was one of the wealthiest men in the world, even though on paper, no one would truly know or be able to appreciate it. He shoved the phone into his jacket pocket, rapping his fingers on the table, growing more impatient by the minute.
He’d certainly acquired his father’s demeanor and habits through the years. Like father, like son, which meant Wrath was a consummate killer, enjoying every aspect of his profession. Nothing was going to keep him from performing this particular task.
The drink was smooth but unable to squelch the nagging in his gut. Ashley. He had secure connections, ones that allowed him to find out the smallest details about anyone in the world. Her identity had been proven, various details about her life going back to junior high school. He’d even been able to crack her juvenile record. The girl had a colorful past. On paper.
The nagging remained. It was all too… perfect in his mind. Tonight her resolve as well as her trust would be in his hands. If she wasn’t who she said she was, he would find out soon enough.
The consequences of lying to him would be irrevocable.
As he brought the glass to his lips, he was able to see her in the distance. The garish outfit from before had been replaced by a stunning emerald green dress, highlighting her luscious curves.She’d swept her long hair into a bun, allowing the world to see her body’s beautiful long lines. His cock was instantly at full attention, his libido increasing to the point his entire body ached with desire. He’d taken pride over the years of never getting involved with a woman and certainly never allowing himself to get emotional in any manner.
Why did this girl challenge him in every way?
She tipped her head, finally locking eyes with his. Her smile was more knowing than alluring as she headed toward the bar. There wasn’t a man in the lobby who hadn’t taken notice. She was by far the most beautiful woman in Monte Carlo.
Wrath swirled his finger around the rim of his glass, studying her intently. She could very well be his demise. That could lead to making a very difficult decision with regard to her life. Hell, no. He might be a brutal assassin, a man without a conscience, but ending the life of someone so precious wasn’t something he could stomach. There were other ways of keeping her in line.
If…
Ashley stood over the table, sweeping her gaze down to his Italian loafers and sockless feet. He’d purposely chosen a more casual look for their date, even though he had no intentions of staying dressed for very long. She was far too tempting to resist.
“You look ravishing,” he commented, easing back in his chair as his gaze became an indication of the true predator he was.
“And you look at me as if you’re ready to feast.”
