“Didn’t kill my libido,” he slurred. “Give me five minutes and I’ll be slamming something else into you instead of a bullet?—”
I rolled my eyes. “You’re delirious.”
His mouth brushed my neck as he shuddered. “Yeah. But it smells good here. And it’s soft.”
“My neck?”
“Mm. You. Funny girl with your giant protective shell.” He sighed. “I shall call you my turtle.”
“Please don’t.”
“Turtle,” he snapped weakly. “Strip for me.”
“And that,” I muttered, dumping him onto the bed, “is severe blood loss.”
I went in search of first aid. When I caught my reflection in the mirror, I barely recognized myself—or the very real smile on my face.
It wasn’t exactlythe easiest thing, taking the bullet out and attempting to dress his wound, but I had no choice. He’d already passed out so that was the easy part—that was after multiple attempts to get me naked and at one point saying the world would end if I kept my top on. I think whatever was in vial also had some very happy drugs because the guy was snoring now like he didn’t have a care in the world.
I finally had time to shoot a scathing text to Cassian.
Tempest
What the hell was in that vial? He lost his mind.
His reply came instantly.
Cassian
This was just part of the game, a fun part. Did you enjoy yourselves? Let off a little steam? It was meant to flood his system with endorphins and serotonin along with some—bonuses. One more dose tonight then he should sleep for several hours, enough for his body to heal before the final vials. A meeting time has been established. It’s best he rest now anyways.
Tempest
Meeting time? When? How long do we have?
Cassian
Five days. Mid-week next week. Two more vials will be sent. Have him take them exactly as instructed. Once administered, let him sleep until the meeting. He’ll do great. Don’t forget your end of the bargain.
Tempest
My end, your origin story, got it. You know, I’m sure if you just kill enough people you can find out yourself.
Cassian
Tried that, it seems some people are willing to take some secrets to their graves, but once you’re a part of the secret you have no choice but to protect it. The Vescovi family needs me, and they’ll also protect me no matter what. Once he’s in, he’ll find out why and you’ll win your little prize. Power, your safe secrets, and look, you even got a husband out of the deal. How benevolent of me.
I rolled my eyes.
Tempest
Benevolent indeed.
Cassian
Rest up. You’ll need it. He may need to satiate his appetite again.
Tempest