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“Please. You’re the only chance I have.”
I fold up the blade and toss it onto her lap. “I can’t help you. Return the doll, and we’ll have it repaired. Consider this a warning that, if you ever steal from me again, I’ll take pleasure in watching the police cuff you before locking you away.”
“What about my family?”
“I said I can’t help you. You’re far too young for what you’re offering.”
“I’m of age. I’m not a child. I’ve had boyfriends, you know. And sex!” The desperation in her voice only strums the depraved visuals tickling my thoughts.
“If ever I was desperate and stupid enough to have you, Isa, make no mistake, that’d be the day you’re properly fucked by a man, not a boy. It’s not an amusing diversion, but something I put a very concentrated effort into. Pleasure is business for me, and you’re not equipped to handle my ruthless nature. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have work to do.”
“Please. I’m begging you, Lucian.”
“Get out of my office before I change my mind and press charges for stealing.” I lean toward her again, sliding my hand over the delicate curve of her neck. “And if you ever hold a knife to my throat again, you’ll find out how adept I am at disarming a threat.” My head blares a warning, as my eyes dip to her lips once more, and I release her, instantly regretting the missed contact.
As hard-pressed as she was to hide her tears, the sniffling as she dashes for the door is unmistakable. The moment she’s gone, Rand reenters my office.
“My apologies, Sir. I did my best to ensure she was the right candidate for--”
“I want you to set up a meeting with Franco. Let him know I’m ready to discuss negotiations, and I’d like to invite him here for it.”
“Here, Master? Your father always felt it was too dangerous to invite the Scarpinatos to the Manor.”
“In case you’ve forgotten, my father isn’t here ru
“I’ve not forgotten, Master. I meant no disrespect. I’ll arrange this meeting, as you requested.”
“Good. And send Makaio in. He’ll be thrilled to know I have a real task for him.”
“Of course. I’ll fetch him immediately. And what of the girl?”
The girl. The girl. The aggravating, beautiful girl. “Keep an eye on her. I have a feeling she may try to leave. I want her to remain here, at least until I’ve decided what I want to do with her.”
“I’ll see it done. My contact should have the information you requested soon. I’ll forward it on to you, once he’s gathered it.”
“Fantastic.” As if my curiosity wasn’t already piqued, the incident with the knife only solidifies my interest in her. I can’t even look at the screen where the video remains paused.
And now I have the perfect excuse to do something completely reckless and impulsive. Only took the tears of a desperate girl to give me the opportunity I’ve been waiting for.