Page 20 of Eternal Craving

Something about the way he favored his right leg, how he flicked the fingers of his right hand against his thigh, an impatient trait, seemed familiar. Yet the painting had been the only time I’d ever seen him.

“A royal seal will advance your success,” he said.

I turned to go. “Let me know if you change your mind about that horse.”

“Roelle had a tendency to be unruly, but you know that.”

I faced him again.

“Such a long time ago,” he said. “But I haven’t forgotten him.”

I stayed silent. No happy memories there – none worth my time, anyway.

Felipe slid both hands into his pockets. “Roelle was the only one to die in the fire.”

I nodded, giving him a wary look.

“I still believe it was foul play.” Felipe squinted. “You were there that night?”

“Why all the questions?”

“I never got an explanation.”

I shrugged. “We were all devastated.”

He looked skeptical. “Roelle planned to leave me an inheritance in his will.”

“Did he?”

“You know the answer to that. And I suggest you accept my offer.”

It was clear what he was doing – once involved he’d steal my property away.

“As you already know, my business is doing well,” I replied.

“Don’t cross me, Daumia. My power reaches all the way to the crown.”

I met his gaze. “I’ll never be beholden to you.”

His eyes widened. “You tampered with the will.”

“Is such a thing even possible?”

He shifted uncomfortably. “What happened to Aaron?”

“I was nine when he disappeared, remember?”

We both stared in the direction of a rustling bush. A bird hopped out from the greenery and flew off.

I met Felipe’s gaze again. “Stay off my ranch.”

“And if I don’t?”

“I have nothing to lose,” I said. “You, however, would be risking your money, status, and power. Your future lies in my hands.”

“And your sister’s fate lies in mine.”

He read my shocked expression. “That’s right. You kept the money, and I kept your sister. Perhaps you’d like to exchange one for the other?”