Total pages in book: 88
Estimated words: 82439 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82439 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
The bouncer, a hulking figure with tattoos snaking up his neck, barely glances at me as I approach. He gives a subtle nod, letting me pass without a second thought. I slip inside, immediately hit with the overwhelming assault of flashing lights and sweat-drenched bodies packed tight in the dark, smoky room. The stench of alcohol mixes with the metallic scent of blood and leather, a clear sign of what’s coming.
They’re gearing up for a fight tonight. The center of the club is already cleared, and a makeshift boxing ring stands ready for the main event. Around it, people are jostling for position, eager to get the best view of the action. High rollers and mob types occupy the private booths on the upper level, drinking expensive liquor while exchanging knowing glances.
My eyes scan the crowd, sweeping over the sea of faces. The flashing lights make it hard to focus, but I’m methodical, moving slowly along the edges of the room, avoiding unnecessary attention. I catch glimpses of familiar faces from the underworld—shady businessmen, men with connections to the Russians, and a few I recognize from my time running jobs for Vin. But none of them interest me right now.
I’m looking for Christopher.
I push past a group of rowdy spectators, dodging a couple making out in the corner, my gaze locking onto the VIP section. There, seated with a drink in hand and the brunette hanging onto his arm, is Christopher. He looks far too relaxed, his face lit with a smug grin. He’s laughing at something someone said, oblivious to the fact that I’m watching.
A moment later Enzo Gabini slides into the booth with him, and they shake hands.
My jaw tightens, and my pulse quickens as I assess the situation. I can’t afford to make a move now—not here, not with the Russians around. Before I can process what’s happening, Yuri Chekov slides into the booth with Christopher and Enzo. My pulse races—Yuri isn’t just any criminal; he’s the bratva boss, the head of one of the most dangerous Russian crime syndicates. If Christopher is involved with him, things are far worse than I imagined. My mind spins, but I don’t have time to linger. I subtly angle my phone, snapping a few discreet pictures of the three of them together. The flash is off, and no one notices as I capture the evidence.
What the fuck?
My gut tells me to get out. Fast. This can’t be good. The air in the club feels heavier now, suffocating with the weight of what I’ve just uncovered. The pounding music fades into the background as I push my way through the crowded club, keeping my head low, avoiding eye contact with anyone who might recognize me. My heartbeat thunders in my ears, but my pace remains steady. I can’t afford to look nervous.
Once I’m outside, I quicken my steps, practically jogging to my car. The moment I slide behind the wheel, I send off the photos to Vin before even starting the engine. My hands grip the steering wheel tightly as I try to steady my breath. The night is suddenly too quiet, the tension wrapping around me like a noose. I don’t stay parked; I drive. Fast. Away from the club and away from whatever mess Christopher has entangled himself in.
I hit Vin’s number on speed dial, my pulse still racing. He picks up on the first ring.
"Christopher was with Yuri,” I tell him.
“You’re sure?" His voice is sharp, laced with concern.
“I sent you the photos,” I reply, glancing at my phone to confirm the message went through.
There’s a brief pause as Vin checks the images. “Holy shit,” he mutters under his breath, his tone changing to one of disbelief. “What the hell could Christopher be doing with Yuri Chekov?”
“I was hoping you’d know,” I say, gripping the steering wheel tighter as I navigate through the city streets. “Whatever it is, it’s bad. Real bad.”
Vin exhales sharply on the other end. “This doesn’t make sense. Yuri’s got his hands in a lot of dirty business, but Christopher… with the bratva? What could he possibly be getting involved in?”
I shake my head, even though he can’t see me. “I don’t know, but we need to figure it out before it’s too late.”
Vin is silent for a beat, probably piecing things together in his head. “This is serious,” he finally says, his voice lower now, more controlled. “We need to tread carefully. Keep an eye on Christopher, but don’t engage. Not yet. We need more information.”
“Got it,” I say, already formulating my next steps. The conversation lingers as the gravity of the situation sinks in, but I know one thing for sure—Christopher’s involvement with Yuri means whatever’s coming isn’t going to end well.
Chapter 32
Evangelina
As I watch Nate clear his dinner plate and set it carefully on the kitchen counter, a warmth swells in my chest. His little legs shuffle back and forth with such determination, and I can’t help but smile at the sight.