Page 132 of Scarred Redemption

She shrugged. “I do what’s necessary.” She flicked her eyes toward the boat. “Is he…”

“Self-inflicted. He wanted you to know he was sorry and had no idea about Callista.”

“I should feel sadness that a brother I never knew I had is dead. What does it say about me that I don’t?”

“It says you’re very human.” I slipped my hand around to the back of her neck, pulling her onto her toes. As I lowered my head, I heard Sergei’s slight chuckle and behind her back, offering him my middle finger in response.

The kiss was sweet and the way she was shaking in my hold another reminder that I’d almost lost her. Again.

As she pressed her hands against my chest, pushing me away, she sighed. “Hope took care of Mina for me. So you can’t hate her any longer.”

I flicked my gaze to Sergei. “And?”

“Both safe and sound. Shadow is fine. He had a cut on his head, but it’s not bad.”

“Bastard. The fucking bastard Kristoff. I want that man punished. I want him…” She sucked in her breath. “Find him.”

“Oh, I assure you that he’s in our custody. What would you like me to do to him?”

Sergei shook his head, grinning and there was something telling about the fact he stood with his shirt soaked in blood, waiting for me to play house with the woman I loved.

She thought about my question and backed away. “Ensure he knows what happens with anyone who betrays the Pakhan. I’ll be at the house with my friend and one amazing little girl when you’re finished. Just don’t take too long.”

As one of my men escorted her toward the house, I chuckled.

Roman jogged toward me, an incredulous look on his face. “What in the fuck is going on?”

“Better late than never.”

“You had me handling meetings while you were playing house. Remember? Are you okay?”

“I will be. Make certain our guests are rounded up. If any of them are alive, take them straight to hell.”

Roman snorted. “With pleasure. Then you need to tell me what happened.”

“Over a tall scotch.”

“He’s in the garage. I didn’t think you’d want to wait until later to deal with him.” Sergei appeared exhausted. We all were. There was nothing worse than ending the day with killing one of our own.

For the first time in as long as I could remember, Sergei’s voice held a heightened level of anxiety. He was suffering already from the loss of a friend.

“You’re right. This chapter needs to be over with.”

“What about the others?”

“I assure you they will be handled. Find the Blade’s daughter and have her moved.”

“Where?”

“Anywhere she wants to go.”

Sergei seemed shocked. “Okay. You’ve changed. Isabel’s influence?”

“Maybe. I keep my word, Sergei. I will always keep my word.”

“Yes, sir. I think I like what Isabel does for your personality. You’re not as much of an asshole. Usually. By the way, nice speedboat driving, sir.”

“As Pakhan, I do what’s necessary.”