by Stone, Piper
By the time the elevator pinged on the third floor, I had the knife in my hands. While we had several soldiers surrounding the perimeter of the hotel, I refused to take any chances. I stormed down the hallway, only I wasn’t going to wait for any sign Ciro’s soldier would do the right thing. With one hard kick, the door slammed against the wall.
Everything shifted to slow motion, the sight of Genevieve bound to a chair, her mouth gagged, tears streaming down her face pushed me into overdrive.
The call had already been placed, the phone dropping from the asshole’s hand from the entrance I’d made. As he pointed the barrel of his weapon against her forehead, I reacted, a bellow erupting from my gut as I threw the knife.
“No!”
* * *
Genevieve
Family.
Everything I understood about the concept had been challenged. While my heart continued to ache, I knew what I was doing was the only thing that would possibly ease the demons furrowing inside of me.
I felt the squeeze of Lucian’s hand and took a deep breath. He’d saved my life, coming to my rescue. Then the way he’d pulled me into his arms was something I would never forget.
Including the words that he’d whispered into my ear.
“I love you.”
“Are you certain you want to do this?” he asked.
“Instead of allowing you to deal with the devil? No, I’m fine. This is what has to be done but this time, my way. I hope you understand.”
“Actually, yes, I do.” He laughed softly. “You are tougher than you look.”
“Yes, I am.”
It had been two days since the horrible night spent wondering whether I was going to be allowed to live. I’d been blindfolded the majority of the time, no idea who the people were who’d captured me.
But I had known the person behind the reason why. The thought sickened me.
“I have one question,” I asked, tipping my head toward Lucian.
“Hmmm… Go on.”
“That detective who threatened your family. Is it a coincidence he made the arrests of Ciro Vitali as well as the senator?”
His grin told me otherwise. “You should know by now that our family is powerful.”
“I guess I need to keep that in mind.”
“Let’s just say that I don’t think Detective Myers will be an issue for some time to come. However, he will be watched.”
“My husband, the brutal man.”
“And never forget that,” he said in his usual smooth baritone, making me shiver inside.
As I knocked on the door, I plastered on a perfectly charming smile.
When the door opened, I took a deep breath. “Hello, Father. I’m certain you never expected on seeing Lucian again.”
“What…” Paling, my father shifted his gaze toward Lucian. Of course he was afraid. He should be.
While he’d never intended on his own daughter becoming a pawn for his greed, the Vitalis had made certain that his debt would be forgiven if he simply played along, providing as much information to his friend, the senator and vice versa, a direct line to the Vitalis. From what I’d heard, the senator had his own share of secrets, those the Vitalis had not only found out, they’d threatened to expose. That was the way of crime syndicates. I was learning the rules quickly.
I wasn’t told much about Morales and in truth, I didn’t ask. Perhaps my husband was correct in that some things didn’t need to be questioned for fear of the answers.
The arrest of the senator as well as Ciro Vitali had been sensationalized news, with additional arrests to come. At least the city of New Orleans had been spared a war that could have cost countless lives.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” my father managed, yet the beads of sweat already forming on his forehead told me otherwise.
“I think you do. It’s obvious you know about the recent arrests in New Orleans. You should know that Lucian did everything in his power to protect you and your esteemed reputation, although if I were you, I’d consider a different line of work.”
“Please, come in so we can talk about this.”
As my father opened the door all the way, I was able to catch a glimpse of my mother standing in the shadows. The pensive look on her face caused a moment of self-doubt.
But only one.
“We don’t need to come inside, Father. I realize you thought you were doing the right thing. You were wrong. I used to believe in a fairytale, the kind where families lived and died for each other. I learned that as with all relationships, there must be trust and honor in order for that to happen. What you did breached every rule of decency. For that, your penance will force you to spend a good portion of your life entirely alone, removed from the family you ignored.”
He blinked several times, obviously uncertain of what I was saying.
“You’re out of my life, Father, at least for the foreseeable future. While you did everything in your power to refuse your daughter hope at happiness, you failed. I love Lucian. He is my family now.”
Lucian did nothing more than place his arm around me. The warmth of his body was electrifying but on this day, his loving action provided the comfort and security I needed.
“You will release my mother from her servitude, providing her with every means necessary to live the life she chooses. If you don’t, I’ll know. Then I won’t be able to hold back my wrath. Do we understand each other?”
A flash of anger rushed into my father’s face as I continued to smile. He’d been cornered and while I didn’t wish my father ill will, he didn’t deserve to have a loving woman like my mother.
“I suggest you answer your daughter, Angelo,” Lucian encouraged.
My father slumped against the door, nodding several times. “Fine. I’ll do what you ask, but I don’t want to lose you. You are my daughter.”
I took a deep breath, darting a glance toward my mother. “And you will always be my father, but it doesn’t mean we’re going to be friends.”
As I turned away, tears finally slipped past my lashes. While I’d done the right thing, there would always be an ache in my heart.
Now it was time to build a life with the man I loved.
Chapter 18
Lucian
“Love does not claim possession but gives freedom.”
Rabindranath Tagore
“What are you doing?” Genevieve asked as she shifted her hands toward the blindfold I’d forced her to wear.”
“Patience, my love. And trust.” I was unable to keep a smile off my face as I slowly guided her around the corner, heading for a very special destination. In the two weeks since the events had unfolded, there’d been a return of normalcy; well, as much as life in the King empire could be. I’d enjoyed watching my beloved create one masterpiece after another, savoring every moment spent behind her pottery wheel.
Hell, she’d even taught me a thing or two about patience.
And about freedom.
The concept meant different things to different people. To me, it was the joy of finally sharing a life with someone, including all the little things I’d taken for granted over the years. For Genevieve, it had meant exploring the various options in her new life, letting go of the past and forging a future with a man she’d considered a monster.
I’d finally learned to accept that my rigid attempts at handling business weren’t necessarily the best. For that, I had her to thank.
On this day, I wanted nothing more than to share her talents with the world, or at least a small portion of it.
“I do trust you. At least mostly,” she said, laughing in the same lilt that always pushed my hunger to the limits.
“Hmmm… I guess we need to do something about that.” As the door was opened for us, Cristiano grinning, I realized I was more excited than I’d been in one hell of a long time.
We walked inside, the only noise coming from the stereo system, the music selected Genevieve’s beloved Spanish guitar.
After I pushed her forward several feet, I slid my hands to the silk scarf I’d used to keep her from discovering what I was doing.
“I wanted to surprise you.” For some reason, the words were difficult to say, but heartfelt. As I untied her blindfold, she sighed.
The one hundred or so people in the small gallery continued to hold their breath as she took her time blinking, adjusting her focus on the pristine lighting Angelique had made certain highlighted Genevieve’s beautiful creations.
“Oh. My. God.” Genevieve’s words were barely audible. Then she turned to face me, throwing her arms around my neck. “You did this for me?”
“I’d give you the world if it was possible.”
“I don’t want the world. I only want you.”
The sweet moment was interrupted by my sister’s fake cough.
“Let’s get this party started. Ladies and gentlemen, may I present my fabulous guest artist, Genevieve King,” she exclaimed.
The sound of clapping and whistling couldn’t drown out the words I wanted to make certain she heard. I cupped both sides of her face, lowering my head as I stared into her beautiful eyes. “I love you, Genevieve.”
“And I love you more than I can tell you.”
As I captured her mouth, the entire crowd roared. The feel of having her close, holding her in my arms was incredible. To think I’d almost lost her continued to keep me on edge. There would always be some enemy attempting to take her away, but they would learn that facing my wrath would mean only one thing.
Their certain death.
I pulled away, nipping her lower lip. “Go and enjoy.”
“Don’t go anywhere,” she purred.
“Not a chance.” I backed away as she shifted through the crowd, enjoying her newly found fame.
“You did good, brother,” Cristiano said from behind me.
When I turned around, I could see the twinkle in Vincenzo’s eyes as he handed me a drink. “I agree. She’s very talented.”
“Yes, she is.” In more than one way. I grinned as I studied her works of art, shaking my head.
“I hate to talk business, but this arrived for you.” Cristiano had a smirk on his face as he handed me an envelope.
I stared down at the unmarked linen and frowned. “I assume you know who it’s from?”
“Of course I do. Morales.”
Vincenzo pretended to choke as I fingered the note, turning it over several times. “What the hell does he want?”
“I’m eager to find out. Maybe a simple thank you.” I could tell Cristiano was half joking. He took a sip of his drink as he scanned the perimeter of the gallery. “The mayor isn’t too happy with the senator’s arrest. He’s putting pressure on the police chief regarding the evidence that was forwarded to the police department.”
“Too bad. There’s enough clear evidence on the senator’s activities to keep him behind bars for years to come.” Vincenzo grinned after making the statement. “Out of our hair.”
“There will always be another politician or member of law enforcement prepared to take us down,” I said absently as I shifted between them, easing my drink onto one of the tables set up for the party.
“Very true, but the good detective who was hassling us has his hands full for a little while. That will allow us to get back to full strength.” Cristiano smiled, nodding toward Genevieve. “However, I’m certain you’re going to want to take some time with your new bride.”
I tugged the note from the envelope, giving both my brothers a look of amusement. “Perhaps.”
“Geez. The man is in love,” Vincenzo teased. “I will say your knife skills are still top notch.”
I gave him a look, shaking my head. However, if I’d made a mistake in my aim, none of this would be happening. At some point, Vitali’s son would attempt retaliation. I would enjoy repaying him in kind.
After reading the note, all I could do was laugh.
Cristiano smirked. “What did Morales have to say?”
“A wedding gift. An all-expenses paid two weeks in Cartagena at the finest hotel. A gesture of good will.” I shook my head, staring at the handwritten note. Who the hell did the man think he was kidding?
“Right. Then he’ll cut you into ribbons while you’re there,” Vincenzo huffed.
Morales wasn’t the kind of man to stand down. He would return to our shores, trying every method of gaining access. We would be ready.
And he wouldn’t be allowed to walk away.
“Maybe not. Are you going to take him up on it?” Cristiano asked, although the gleam in his eyes was full of amusement.
I grinned, taking my time to rip it in half, tossing it onto the table then grabbing my drink. “Not a chance. I have somewhere else in mind.” I gazed toward the woman I’d called my possession, my cock already aching. She was even more dazzling on the humid yet beautiful evening, her hair swept into a bun and the gorgeous emerald green dress highlighting every curve.
“Yup. Our brother is in love.” Vincenzo lifted his glass.
I noticed the door opening, a beautiful woman walking inside. My brothers followed my gaze, Vincenzo patting me on the back.
“You might just make a good husband after all.”
His words actually gave me a smile. I’d seen such a strong resolve in Genevieve, including her bravery at confronting her father. I had a feeling that one day she’d be ready to make amends, but on her terms.
And only when she was ready.
In the meantime, she deserved to have a family member of her own in her life. “I just did what any good husband would do.”
I watched the moment of recognition unfold on Genevieve’s face, her shock at seeing her mother free from the constraints of Angelo Rossi’s hold intense.
When they embraced, I lifted my glass in reverence.
“A toast, my brothers. To honor. To trust. And to family.”
“Agreed,” Vincenzo whispered.
And to love, the greatest gift of all.
* * *
Genevieve
As I walked onto the balcony, I took a deep breath, holding it in as I gazed at the glorious sunrise. The early morning was my favorite time, a moment of rebirth and revitalization. Today was a glorious day, the kind of perfect moment in time that should never be forgotten.
The dawn highlighted incredible colors splashed across the sky like the most magnificent piece of art, golden colors fading into the quietly rolling ocean. Palm trees shimmied in the light breeze, vibrant tropical plants as far as the eye could see.
I leaned over the railing, realizing that Hawaii was the place fantasies were created.
Well, that and arranged marriages.
I wasn’t able to suppress a laugh from bubbling to the surface. I certainly wouldn’t have been able to fathom the changes in my life during the last month, but here I was standing on one of four balconies overlooking a pristine and very secluded beach in the place on Earth I loved the most.
With the man I’d fallen desperately in love with.
So many amazing things had occurred in a short period of time, including my mother moving to New Orleans, gifted a house by Lucian. At least I would be able to enjoy spending time with her.
As far as my father? I’d forgive him one day. I knew I had to, but the hurt remained. I hoped he would be able to find his way, maybe even seeking the happiness he’d been forced to push aside for the first time in his life. Time would tell.
I also had a new career on the horizon, the gallery showing selling out within two hours. Of course, I knew Angelique had something to do with my success, but the orders continued to flow in.
Fulfilling them would have to take a backseat, at least for a little while.
I had a honeymoon to enjoy with my passionate husband.
I bit my lip and drank in the atmosphere. There would always be danger and fear, anxiety when he left the house or flew to another country. I’d come to accept that being a part of the King empire meant being forced to handle both
loneliness and concern. That would take some time, but I knew I didn’t want to spend my life without him.
Him.
The man who was larger than life.
Brutal.
Dominating.
Mine.
I sensed his presence behind me, and every inch of my body shivered. Even the subtle scent of his aftershave mixing with an explosion of testosterone was enough to send a flurry of butterflies into my stomach. The man had a way about him that kept me aroused, my desire sizzling every nerve ending.
He said nothing as he crowded my space, shifting the heat of his body against mine, placing his hands on the railing just outside of mine.
I shifted back and forth, enjoying the friction building between us. We’d spent the entire night making love, but I hadn’t been able to fall asleep. I didn’t want to miss a minute of the glorious day.
“Be careful, little girl. I might have to take you right here on this balcony,” he murmured into my ear, nipping my earlobe as he ground his hips back and forth.
The feel of his hard cock pressing into me was even more incredible than the night before. I took a deep breath, goosebumps appearing along my arms. “And why would you think I’d mind?”
He laughed as he raked my hair aside, dragging his tongue up and down the length of my neck, sending a wave of shudders down my legs.
I was hot and wet all over, my breathing ragged.
“Such a bad girl.”
“Your bad girl.”
Very slowly, he lowered one strap on my nightgown, nipping my shoulder as he did so. “Don’t you forget it.” After repeating the move on the other side, he stepped away enough to allow the silk to slip to the floor.
I shivered from the sensation of being naked as well as anticipation of what he was going to do.
“What if I do?” I managed, already finding it difficult to think clearly.
“Then I guess I’ll need to remind you. Over and over again.”
The two sharp smacks on my bottom forced a moan from my lips. The third and fourth sent a fire dancing through me. “Not fair. I haven’t broken any rules.”
