Page 133 of Beguiled

Kazimir smiled when he looked at me. “You are correct.”

As Kazmik sat back on the bench, he glanced toward the blue sky. “My time as leader is almost concluded. New blood. New ways. No one cares about the past. You can relate.”

“Yes, but only if handled without deceit,” I told him.

He pinned his gaze on me, nodding slowly. “So you mentioned. You’re suggesting Vardan is not who everyone believes him to be.”

“You mean a leader of the future?” Kazimir half laughed. “No, he is not. He was recruited, corrupted by promises made.”

“By whom? His father? Maybe you didn’t know but we used to be best friends, family. Now, we’re enemies. Such is life.”

“Family isn’t always to be trusted,” I admitted. “Our brother is responsible for the shakeup within your organization.”

Kazmik’s eyes opened wide. “So the rumors are true?”

“They are true,” Kazimir said quietly. “But it’s time that chapter of our life is ended. And I believe you would prefer that whoever leads your people is worthy of the job.”

“Are you suggesting my time is over?” Kazmik was genuinely curious.

“As you said, fresh blood isn’t necessarily bad. However, the old ways must be embraced and respected. That’s where you come in.”

“But not with Vardan,” Kazmik finished. “My people believe him the next messiah.”

Kazimir pulled out a jump drive. “I believe you’ll find everything you need to alter current beliefs. The proof you need Vardan is nothing but a puppet being controlled by a Russian faction that will eventually destroy everything you’ve worked to build.”

Kazmik appeared skeptical. “Why would you do this?”

“Because we have no beef with the Armenian people. We want to get along. We are businessmen and nothing else. I understandthere is another challenger, young blood eager to learn the ropes. Be his teacher. His champion. Protect the old ways.”

“As you are doing?” he asked while accepting the jump drive.

“As everyone in my family, our wives and significant others are doing. Together. While respecting our heritage.” Kazimir stuck out his hand.

I thought for a moment the man wasn’t going to accept. When he did, he broke into a smile.

“Today is a beautiful day for change,” he said, laughing as if the weight had taken off his shoulders.

Now it was time to do the same for our family. Our regime.

And for the people we loved.

CHAPTER 28

Stash

The stage had been set.

The players in their positions.

The trap baited.

The temptation was too much to pass by.

The security was tight.

Now all that was needed was the last key player.

“Breathe, my darling man. Just breathe.”