***
Dominic walked to the kitchen, searching for something to drink. He found a bottle of scotch and took a gulp. Then he walked over to the sink and splashed water on his face. What in the world had he done? A person was dead because of him. He could have easily wounded George instead of killing him. But he didn’t. At the time, Dominic knew what he was doing, and he’d wanted George dead.
When Dominic saw George on top of Brianna, an overwhelming feeling of hatred consumed him. It wasn’t simply about protecting and saving Brianna, it was also about making George pay for what he’d done. It felt good knowing he had that kind of power.
But at what price?
What if Dominic got caught? He could lose everything. And was this really the life he wanted to lead? At least Salazar would be pleased with Dominic’s actions.
Someone approached from behind. Dominic turned to find his mom, standing there in her pajamas.
“Hi, honey,” she said. “Did you just get in? It’s late.”
“Yeah. Brianna and I were out. She spilled something on her shirt. We swung by here so she could change.” The lies flowed freely from his mouth, surprising him.
“Is something the matter?” Marie asked, her eyes darting to the bottle of scotch still on the counter. His mom always saw too much.
“No. Why?” Dominic asked, leaning against the sink. He crossed his arms, trying to appear casual.
“You look like you did when Claire broke up with you,” she said, taking a step forward. “Did something happen between you and Brianna? Have you heard from Claire?” Her voice was hopeful.
“No,” Dominic sighed. “I just have a lot going on with work right now and I’m tired. Everything’s okay, don’t worry.” Dominic kissed his mom on the forehead then went into the family room, collapsing on the couch. He hoped Marie would leave him alone.
At some point he’d have to tell his mom about the job and marrying Brianna. No matter how or when he told her, she was going to freak out.
“Thanks for the shirt,” Briana said as she came in and took a seat on the couch next to him.
“How do you feel?” he asked.
“I don’t want to talk about it.” Since they left the club, she’d been distant. Even now, Brianna wouldn’t look at him.
Dominic’s hand slowly traced the curve of her face. “There are tears in your eyes.” What did Brianna think about him killing George? Was she grateful? Did he disgust her? Her face was blank, revealing nothing. She’d given her body to him, why couldn’t she give her heart? Dominic wanted her to open up and confide in him.
“We should get going.” Her voice was flat and without emotion.
“Look at me,” Dominic demanded. Her lip quivered. “Please.”
Slowly, she turned her head toward him. She’d washed off her makeup. She seemed younger, innocent. Dominic placed his hands on either side of her face. “I’m sorry I left you alone.” Her body trembled. Tears slid down her cheeks. “It won’t happen again. I promise.”
Marie cleared her throat. Dominic glanced up—his mom stood in the doorway watching them. “What have you two been up to this evening?” she asked, taking a seat on the chair next to the couch.
“Not much,” Dominic said. Why did his mom have to be so nosy? “We had a bite to eat. We were going to see a movie when we got sidetracked.” He released Brianna’s face, trying to act casual.
“Well, don’t let me keep you guys if you have somewhere to be.” Marie was focused on Brianna, but Brianna kept her head turned away from her.
Dominic grabbed Brianna’s hand, squeezing it. “I didn’t realize how late it was. I don’t think we’re going anymore.”
Brianna sighed. “Hi, Mrs. Bennett. It’s good to see you again.” She turned her body toward Marie, finally having some color in her face.
Marie’s eyes widened as she leaned forward. Dominic followed him mom’s line of sight—she was staring at Brianna’s ring. Crap. He’d totally forgotten she had it on.
“Mom,” Dominic said, releasing Brianna’s hand and moving to the edge of the couch.
“That’s a beautiful ring on your finger,” Marie interrupted him.
Brianna folded her hands together, hiding the engagement ring.
Marie leaned back, crossing her arms. Her eyes stared daggers at Dominic.
“I was going to tell you,” Dominic said, “but you ruined the surprise.” He forced himself to smile. Marie’s eyes narrowed. She wasn’t buying it. Dominic continued, “Brianna and I are engaged!” His mom’s jaw dropped and her eyes looked like they might fall right out of their sockets. He needed to soften the blow. “I wanted to plan a family dinner and announce it then. I’m sorry you had to find out this way. But it’s good news—aren’t you happy for us?”
Brianna chuckled, shaking her head in disbelief.
“What?” Dominic asked, confused.
“You’re just like him,” she said with disgust. Their eyes locked. Did she mean Salazar? She was upset with him because he took control and acted like her father? Brianna tried to stand, but Dominic grabbed her wrists, restraining her.
“I’m sorry,” he whispered.
***
Marie watched her son and Brianna’s odd exchange. There was something familiar about this girl. Her bold blue eyes against dark brown hair were absolutely breathtaking. In all of Marie’s life, she’d only seen one other woman with such strikingly beautiful features. And that ring. Marie was certain she’d seen it before. It was as if she ran full force into a brick wall.
Marie abruptly stood. “I’m happy for you two, congratulations.”
“Thank you,” Dominic said, standing.
Not knowing what else to do, Marie wrapped her arms around her son. She turned to face Brianna. “Your mother was Christina. She was my best friend until her death.”
Brianna grabbed Marie’s arms for dear life. “You knew my mother?” her voice shook.
“You look just like her,” Marie said. “And your father is . . . Antonio Salazar?” Up to this moment, Marie hadn’t realized the baby survived.
Brianna nodded in confirmation, tears filling her eyes. Brianna was still hanging onto Marie, not able to let go.
“That’s what I was afraid of,” Marie said. Her shoulders slumped in defeat. How could Salazar have done this? How could he murder Christina and steal her baby? He was a sick bastard. This poor child. What she must’ve endured, growing up with a monster for a father.
Dominic placed his hand on Brianna’s shoulder in a protective gesture. He straightened his back, trying to appear confident. He didn’t fool her.
“Mom,” Dominic said, “I can explain.”
“No,” Marie put her hand up to stop him. “I can’t do this right now.” She shook her head in disbelief. All the pieces of the puzzle were falling together. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow—after I’ve had a chance to process this and calm down.”
“Fine.” Dominic turned to go.
“Wait,” Marie said. “Brianna, can I speak with you for a moment? Alone.”
“Mom, if you have anything to say to Brianna, you can say it to me too.” Dominic looked weary.
“I need to speak with her in private, regarding her mother.” If this girl was anything like Christina, there was hope for Dominic.
“It’s okay, Dominic,” Brianna said. “Go to bed. I’ll let myself out when I’m done talking to your mom. Get some sleep.” Dominic gave her a soft kiss on the cheek and left the room.
Marie sat on the couch, patting the spot next to her. Brianna complied. “What did Salazar tell you about your mother’s death?” she asked.
Brianna blinked several times then took hold of Marie’s hands. This poor child was starving for love. Marie squeezed her hands.
“He told me she died when I was very young from a medical condition,” Brianna said. “He doesn’t like to talk about it. This engagement ring is actually hers. It’s the only thing I have of hers.”
The ring wasn’t all that wa
s left. Poor Brianna. She had no idea. “When were you born?” Marie prayed Christina gave birth before her death. The idea of Salazar delivering the baby after he murdered his estranged wife was disgusting.
“February 21, 1993. I’m twenty-two years old. Just nine months older than Dominic.”
Marie swallowed, trying to remain calm. “Do you when your mother died?” she carefully asked, trying to keep the conversation focused on Brianna.
“Shortly thereafter. Why?”
Marie sat in silence for a few moments. Should she tell Brianna what she knew? That Salazar murdered Christina with his own two hands? What would Salazar do to Marie if he discovered she told Brianna the truth? Perhaps there was another way for her to learn what happened. “That’s what Salazar told you?” Marie asked.
“Yes.”
“And do you see Christina’s parents, your grandparents, often?” Marie raised her eyebrows, trying to drop as many hints as possible.
“No, they both died before my parents married.” Brianna cocked her head to the side, realization dawning.
“Do you know your mother’s maiden name?”
“Actually, I don’t.” Brianna stared off to the side, lost in thought. Suddenly she turned back to Marie. “You say you knew my mother. Clearly there’s something you want to tell me.”
“Christina would want me to tell you this. But it’s your father that I fear, more than the devil himself. I can’t tell you anything, but I can point you in the right direction. Then it’s up to you to discover what you deserve to know.”
“Okay, so point.”
“I already have.”
Brianna nodded as she stood, preparing leave. “Thank you for your time.”
Marie gently took her arm, restraining her. “You’re marrying Dominic because that’s what Salazar wants?” Marie blinked back tears. Brianna opened her mouth to talk, but nothing came out. “You don’t have to say anything—your face reveals it all. You know Salazar’s true nature. I wish I could tell you not to be afraid of him, but I can’t. He’s a monster. I don’t want Dominic involved with him. If you care for Dominic at all, help him.” Tears ran down Marie’s face. “Please, save my son.”
Brianna hunched forward, defeated. “I wish I could, but I can’t even save myself. I’m barely surviving as it is. If I knew a way out, trust me, I’d take it.”
“Does Dominic know the marriage is arranged?” Marie asked.
“He chose to accept my father’s job offer and me. It was his decision.”
But he didn’t choose a life of murder, lies, and manipulation. He really didn’t know what he was getting himself into. “I’m sure he was forced or bribed or something. Why would he voluntarily work for Salazar?”
“I’ve already said too much. I can’t get into this. You seem to know enough of my father to figure it out. If it makes you feel any better, I do like Dominic. I believe we can be happy together.”
Marie feared for this day from the moment Dominic was conceived. She knew Salazar would come for him one way or another, and the temptation would be too great for Dominic to refuse.
Since the day Dominic was born, Marie tried to instill in him a sense of right and wrong. She hoped it would be enough. She hoped it would at least be something to use in the fight. After all, she saw what power and money did to Richard. She saw how it changed him and how hard it was for him to give it up. Marie knew Salazar would lure Dominic with these irresistible temptations. She’d fought her whole life to try and make these things unimportant to her family. But in all her preparation, she never once thought about someone like Brianna, Christina’s own flesh and blood, being used to lure Dominic in. If Marie could eliminate this lethal temptation—if Brianna knew the truth about her mother—then surely things would be different. Maybe, just maybe, Dominic would stand a chance.
The next day Dominic awoke to the smell of coffee—a sure sign of how upset his mom really was. Growing up, that was how Dominic and his sisters knew they were in trouble. Whenever Marie had a cup of coffee, someone was grounded that day.
Still wearing his pajamas, Dominic snuck out into the hallway. He heard his parents in a heated discussion, coming from the kitchen. Dominic could probably climb out his bedroom window undetected. But what was the point? He would eventually have to face them. Might as well get it over with.
Entering the kitchen, Dominic found his mom sitting at the table with her mug of coffee. Marie’s leg bounced up and down, while her right hand tapped on the table. Her eyes were red—whether from the caffeine or crying, Dominic wasn’t sure. Richard, on the other hand, was standing at the bay window staring outside. When Richard turned to face Dominic, he appeared calm—which wasn’t good. Whenever Richard was calm during a situation such as this one, Dominic knew his dad was furious. Dominic and his sisters called it the scary calm.
“Sit down,” Richard demanded, his voice level.
Dominic did as he was told. Aside from Marie’s tapping, the only other sound was the birds singing outside, mocking him.
“It’s time you were honest with us,” Richard said. “Are you working for Antonio Salazar?” His eyes bore into Dominic’s as if they radiated heat. “Think carefully before you answer.”
Dominic shifted uncomfortably in his chair. He hated disappointing his parents. He’d been doing it for as long as he could remember.
“Yes. I’m working at Austogen Pharmaceutical,” Dominic finally answered. “Salazar’s the CEO.” Sweat trickled down his forehead.
“And you just happen to be engaged to his daughter, Brianna?” Richard asked.
Dominic glanced over at his mom. Marie remained silent, refusing to look at him. Shoving the chair away from the table, she got up, went over to the coffee maker, and poured another cup. When Marie sat back down, she drank it without adding sugar or cream. At least she wasn’t tapping her hand on the table, although her leg was still going a mile a minute.
“Yes,” Dominic answered, barely audible.
“What’s really going on?” Richard demanded, taking a seat opposite Dominic. “I want you to be honest, and I want you to tell us everything.”
How could Dominic possibly explain to his parents that he singlehandedly saved his family’s home? He’d gone down to the bank with Salazar and made all the necessary arrangements. His parents wouldn’t understand, and they certainly wouldn’t accept any help from Salazar. Then there was Brianna and the strange connection Dominic felt toward her. He didn’t know how to put this into words so his parents could make sense of it.
“Well,” Dominic began, “I’m making a great salary . . . my student loans were paid off. I was given a company car.” His reasons sounded flimsy—even to himself. Dominic’s shirt was soaked through with sweat. He was hurting his parents. He could see the disappointment in their faces, the unspoken fear in their eyes. Nothing he said would make things right.
Marie finally spoke. “You know Salazar makes and sells drugs?”
“Of course, Mom. It’s a pharmaceutical company.” Dominic couldn’t help himself.“Don’t be coy with me,” Richard slammed his hand on the table. “What he does is illegal. Do you want to end up in jail?”
“Of course not.” Dominic had thought a lot about jail lately—especially after last night. “I know what I’ve gotten myself into. I need you two to understand—this is my choice. You may not agree with me, but I need you to respect my decision.”
“We told you to stay away from him!” Marie’s voice shook with anger.
Richard’s face was bright red, eyes glossed like he’d just swallowed hot sauce. “By working for him, you’re not only jeopardizing your life and future, but your entire family’s as well. How can you do that to us?” Dominic was about to answer when Richard continued. “You’re no longer welcome in our home.”
“Oh, come on,” Dominic said. “You can’t be serious.” He had saved this home. How could he not be welcome in it?
Marie got up and left without a word. Whatever happened between h
is parents and Salazar must’ve been bad. Dominic had never seen his mom like this before. Usually she was the one doing the talking while Richard was the quiet one. It was like someone took a baseball bat to Dominic’s stomach.
“You may not care what happens to this family, but I do,” Richard said. “We want you out today.”
“How can you do this to me?” His parents had never done anything this extreme before.
“How can we do this to you? Weren’t you just telling us that this was your choice? We had to respect your decisions?” Richard stood. “If you can’t live by our rules, then you can’t live in our house.”
By accepting Salazar, Dominic gained Salazar’s family but lost his own. And right now, it didn’t feel worth it.
Standing next to the window on the fourth floor at Austogen Pharmaceutical, Dominic scanned the parking lot and streets below. Everything, as usual, was quiet for seven-fifty on a Saturday morning. Not a single car or person in sight. Turning around, Dominic faced the surveillance equipment.
It was Dominic’s third time on this highly secure floor. More than anything he wanted to snoop around, but his every move was on camera. Salazar was only beginning to trust him, so he didn’t want to do anything stupid and jeopardize that newfound faith.
After Dominic killed George at Twilight a few months ago, Salazar said it was time for Dominic to get his feet wet. That’s when Salazar allowed Dominic on the fourth floor at Austogen—a floor accessible by only five, now six, individuals: the four lab technicians, Dominic, and Salazar. The lab on this floor was identical to the ones on the lower levels. The only difference being that this one produced meth, whereas the others worked on producing a drug to cure lupus.
The Power to See Page 23