He laughs, running a hand through his slicked back salt-and-pepper hair. “No. I definitely have interest, and have something lined up soon. But if you'd like to be the first…I can arrange it.”
So I don’t vomit everywhere, I force my gaze over to where Jude is talking with Adriana. The asshole is talking about selling the man I love into sex slavery. "No, that's quite alright."
His posture shifts almost imperceptibly. He leans in a fraction, intrigued. “So whatcanI do for you, beautiful?” he asks.
I let my gaze drift toward the stage, just briefly, as though I’m savoring the idea. “I’d like to commission a private event,” I reply. “Invitation-only. No phones. No publicity. An eveningbuilt entirely around indulgence.” I emphasize the last three words.
His brows lift. “Indulgence? I like that. What’s in it for his performance?
“Four million,” I add seductively. “For exclusivity.”
Before he can respond, Rafe steps forward with effortless timing.
“Alexei Morozov,” he says, extending his hand. “Rafe Vaughan.”
There’s suddenly a tightening around Alexei’s mouth as recognition flickers in his expression. “Vaughan,” he repeats, taking his hand. “I’ve heard of your reach.The Dark Monster of New York,right?”
Rafe smiles like he’s proud of the title. “That is correct. No one touches what’s mine.”
Alexei narrows his gaze and tugs his lower lip between his teeth. “Impressive work with Waylon and Waleria. They always pissed me off. Especially Waleria. She was only in power because of him.”
Rafe tilts his head. “They got what they deserved.”
I refrain from shivering at the power in his voice at that. Poor Adela was held captive, raped, and beaten before she was able to escape those people. Rafe’s hatred knows no bounds when it comes to those who had a hand in her suffering.
They hold each other’s gaze, and something unspoken passes between them.Appraisal, maybe?
Rafe continues as though discussing market trends. “Your expansion into Prague was exceptional. Clean execution. Moscow must be pleased. Especially with the good powder coming through.”
Alexei’s eyes gleam. “You’re well informed. And yes, it’s been a very worthwhile endeavor.”
“I imagine.”
“So, is this your event?” Alexei asks. “Did you send this pretty little thing over to butter me up?”
Rafe chuckles, the sound reminding me of an evil villain. “It is my event. There are partnership possibilities between Moscow and New York worth discussing. Hell, you’re a huge reason why I’m even here.”
I almost laugh at that.He isn’t wrong.
Now Alexei’s interest deepens into hunger. After a very calculated pause, he nods. “Four million. Next week. Invitation-only?”
“Yes,” Rafe replies. “The transfer will be wired. We can arrange a performance, and have some of the best MDMA from the States provided for guests.”
Alexei turns slightly and gestures. “Jude.”
The name is a blade sliding slowly and painfully into my heart when I turn and see him heading our way. He moves with composed grace...the most beautiful person in the world. I realize, as he comes to a stop across from us, that he looks disconnected.
He does not recognize me.
Rafe extends his hand. “Looking forward to working with you.”
Jude takes it. His smile is fake, but professional. “Always happy to perform,” he says, almost robotically.
His voice is so close I feel it in my body.
My Jude. My Jude...
Alexei glances at Rafe, handing him a card with numbers on it. “And Adela? The legendary cybersecurity powerhouse?”