by Peyton Banks
“Never,” she growled, her eyes locked on his guard.
“You’ll have plenty of time later to finish your competition. We need to plan the trip on land,” he announced. His words caused both of them to immediately calm down. This was important. They would be reaching land by nightfall, and they would have to be extremely careful.
Denis had yet to discover who may have leaked that they were in Bermuda, but this time, only those that really needed to know the location were privy to the information. They would be arriving in Portland, Maine. He owned a small home on Great Diamond Island, part of the city of Portland. What he loved about Great Diamond Island was that it was unreachable by way of car. Most people who wanted to reach the island had to travel by ferry. The yacht could dock on the island, and when they were ready to go to the mainland, they would have to take the ferry. His yacht was too large and would draw too much attention.
“What do you have in mind? You only told me where we were going the other night.” Mila raised an eyebrow at him.
He narrowed his gaze on her as he recalled how she’d gotten the information out of him. He would have to give it to her. She was brutal when it came to her torture tactics. Using her body to get him to spill the location was brilliant.
“We’re going to go to the one place they won’t expect. Docking in Great Diamond will allow us to sneak onto the mainland unnoticed. Now that word is out that I’m with you, we’re going to have to get rid of the yacht for now.”
Both Mila and Denis turned their eyes to him and gave him their full attention, the card game forgotten.
“What will be the plan once we’re on shore?” Denis asked.
Once they had arrived back on the boat, he’d had his men sweep the boat to ensure that there were no listening devices hidden anywhere. Luckily, none were found.
“Mila, you’re going to get your wish. We’re going after Vladen.”
A cynical grin spread across her face as she took in what he’d said. He could see the wheels in that beautiful brain of hers turning.
“Are you shitting me?” Denis threw his hands in the air. “We’re supposed to be keeping her out of the way of danger, and you’re saying we’re just going to waltz up to the person who put out a hit on her?”
“What better way to stop it? We’re going to make him cancel the hit, and if he doesn’t, then he’ll get what he lied about..”
“Kole, I thought I loved you before, but now I’m certain of it.” She got up and threw herself at him. He had to fight to keep the chair from tipping over. Once back on all four legs, he shifted her body on his lap to a more comfortable position for him, which was hard to do since her body on his lap was causing a stirring in his loins.
“I knew this would make you happy. I know where the son of a bitch is hiding. He started this war and we’re going to finish it,” Kole growled.
“Baby, I promise you we’re going to end this shit,” Mila said, gripping his head in her hands. He could see the dangerous glint in her eyes and knew that she meant it.
They would end this fucking war.
Together.
Or die trying.
Chapter 19
They had made it to the mainland in the shadow of night. Mila knew that Kole had purposely wanted it that way. The quiet island would not be as busy and they could potentially go unnoticed. Most of the islanders got around by way of golf carts and bicycles. According to Kole, the population of the island was under one hundred residents, and it was considered a gated community. This, they would be able to use to their advantage. In such a small community, it would be hard for people to blend in with the locals.
Peter and the crew would take the yacht and dock it elsewhere to lead whoever was tracking the yacht astray.
Mila followed Kole to where a row of golf carts were parked.
“We’re going to have to split up,” Kole announced, placing their bags on the back of one of the carts.
“We’ll meet you at the house.” Denis nodded as he and Jethro went to their own cart.
“Let’s go.” Within minutes, they were coasting down a pathway.
“How far do we have to go?” she asked, watching the beautiful scenery go by.
“Not far. We’ll be there in a few minutes. Corneal should be there.”
She knew that if he was calling in his second-in-command, they were really going to go through with going after Vladen.
Kole was correct. They arrived in less than ten minutes, driving past beautiful homes and a golf course.
“This is beautiful, Kole,” she gushed as she stepped out of the cart. The front sconces were on, giving them a little light, as if welcoming them home. The cottage had a homey feel to it. It wasn’t as large as the oceanfront homes they had passed, but it certainly was a house that any person would love to spend time in for a cozy, quiet vacation.
“Thank you,” he murmured, grabbing their bags from the back of the cart. “Follow me.”
She noticed that the houses didn’t have driveways, but stone paths along the side of them. The island seemed like a family-oriented community by the signs of playgrounds, parks, and some of the homes had children’s toys left in the front yards.
She prayed that the fight didn’t spill over into this beautiful community. She narrowed her eyes as she followed Kole. They would reach Vladen and she would kill the son of a bitch with her own hands if she had to. He would get his wish. He just didn’t know who he was fucking with. Her brother may be a deadly mafia boss, but Vladen had never really tangoed with her, and she would make sure that he would regret it. He would release the hit from her head. If he didn’t, she would end his life without a second thought.
Kole guided them to the back of the house.
“Glad you all made it on time,” a voice said from the open doorway. The porch light was out, leaving them in complete darkness.
“Corneal, it’s good to see your ugly mug,” Kole greeted his second.
Mila remembered him briefly from the charity event, but wasn’t sure if they had ever met before. Kole jogged up the few steps of the porch and hugged his second with his free arm. She took her time going up the stairs, knowing that his second would be weary of her. They broke apart, and even in the dark, she could feel the tension coming from the man.
“Mila, this is Corneal Galca, my second. Corneal, this is Mila Petrovna.” They both nodded to each other. Mila knew that Kole’s second didn’t trust her. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to reach that conclusion. He didn’t know her, and she didn’t know him.
“Come in. Let’s get you guys settled.” Corneal motioned for the door. She nodded and followed Kole into the cottage.
“Denis and Jethro were behind us. They should be here soon,” Kole announced.
Mila took in her surroundings as Kole led her through the kitchen and into what appeared to be the family room. The cottage certainly reflected the type of community they were in—one of relaxation and peace.
“Sir, would you like me to take those bags?” a young man offered, standing from his perch on the couch.
“Please take them to the master bedroom, Tyson.” Kole handed their bags off to the younger man. She had noted a few other men throughout the house as they passed through it. She assumed they were all members of Kole’s organization by the way they all treated him respectfully. Her, they all eyed with suspicion, as if waiting to see what she would do. This was something she was used to. With her reputation, most men remained guarded when around her.
“They’re here,” Corneal yelled from his position on the porch.
Now that she knew what Kole had intended, she would need to concentrate on what was to come. She would not tell her family of what they were planning. She knew her brother and father would forbid her from getting involved because they would handle it. Which they could go ahead and handle the war. The Tokhan would prevail, but it was she who would handle Vladen. His lies would be the end of him.
“I can see the change in you,” Kole remarked as she sat d
own on the couch where the young man had vacated. Her eyes flew to his as he stood by the home’s fireplace.
“Oh?” she asked, her eyebrow raised.
“You have the look of a female lion with her eyes on the prey,” he murmured.
It was amazing in how in such a short time, he had come to know her so well.
“Just be thankful you’re not my mark,” she replied, crossing her legs.
Yes, she was a huntress about to plan her attack on her prey. Vladen Jaksch had certainly gained her attention.
“So what’s the plan?” Denis asked as they sat around the dining room table. Denis, Corneal, Mila, and Jethro all turned to Kole at the head of the table.
She could tell that Kole was taking no chances in their plan being leaked. Before their meeting, Denis swept the room for bugs to ensure what was said was not shared beyond the room.
“We’ve found where Vladen is being hidden. After the fighting between the Tokhan and Slokavich families, he disappeared. He knew the Pasha and Nikolai would be gunning for him for starting this mess,” Corneal informed the room.
“Are we sure the information of his location is correct?” Mila asked. She knew the head of the Slokavich family had plenty of resources, and they would need to be sure that he was where Corneal’s contact said he is. They would have one shot at getting to Vlad.
“Are we sure she should be here?” Corneal asked, turning to Kole. “We’re going to be discussing sensitive information that —”
“She stays.” Kole’s two words were low and deadly, and the room went silent. Mila could tell by the tone in his voice that he dared them to argue.
Corneal’s eyes shot to her, and she was certain that he didn’t trust her. A man’s eyes always told his story. No matter how much they tried to block their emotions and feeling, Mila was able to see the truth in them. One look in Corneal’s and she knew her previous assumption was correct. He didn’t trust her, and she didn’t blame him. That showed his true loyalty to Kole and their organization.
“I know that we don’t know each other, but I’m loyal to my organization as well, Corneal. I don’t blame you for your distrust. I expected it.” She turned to Corneal. She didn’t need Kole to protect her, she could take the heat. She was used to it, especially as a woman in a world that was driven by alpha males. “Your loyalty to Kole is very honorable, but know that right now, our two organizations are working together, and if we’re going to do that, we will need to trust each other.”
“That brother of yours—”
She held up her hand, cutting him off. “I’m not my brother. I’ll admit, Pasha can be a stubborn, bullheaded man who wants the best for the Tokhan, same as I’m sure you do for the Belotov’s. But this war that was started over a lie has engulfed both our organizations. Sides have been established, and the Belotov’s would have either been with the Tokhan or against us, and I’d have to say that Kole has chosen wisely.”
“She’s right. This war is bigger than any of us, and I’ve sworn to protect Mila. Not just to her father and brother, but I’ve made the promise to her. She belongs to me and I protect what is mine. No harm shall come to her.”
The room fell silent as they all took in Kole’s words. Her eyes flew to his at his admission to his second and security.
She was his.
He couldn’t have made it more official than shouting it to the world. As the leader of his organization, everyone would now know that if they were to lay a hand on her, they would answer to him.
“I understand.” Corneal nodded to Kole, and then to Mila. “To answer your original question, yes. I’m certain where Vladen is being hidden. One of my spies had infiltrated their organization years ago and is part of their security detail.”
Mila raised an eyebrow at this information. Interesting, she thought to herself, tucking that little bit of information in the back of her mind.
“Perfect.” Kole nodded his head.
“He’s actually located not too far from here. He’s in Concord, New Hampshire, at a safe house,” Corneal informed the room.
“That’s a little less than two hours from here,” Denis mused. “Once we get back to the mainland, I’ll make arrangements for transportation.”
“Good. We’re going to cause a distraction and allow Mila to do what she’s best known for.” Kole looked at her and she returned his gaze as a small smile graced her lips.
“Please tell me you have some goodies here.” She collapsed her hands together. If they didn’t, she would have to make arrangements to get weapons sent to her.
“But of course we do. I’m sure you would be pleased with what we have here,” Jethro chuckled.
“I would love to see your toys,” she replied. Just the thought of exploring their arsenal sent a wave of excitement through her. There was nothing like the feeling of cold hard steel in her hands.
“You’ll get your chance,” Denis offered. “I’m sure we’ll have some that you’ll get a kick out of.”
“Now, will this spy help us get on the property?” she asked Corneal.
“Yes. He’s loyal to the Belotov’s, but we don’t want him to blow his cover. Once we’re in, he is to disappear.”
She turned a pleased eye to Kole. “I think we just need the blueprints of the place and we can begin making a plan for infiltration.”
“I’m already a step ahead of you. Those will be here first thing in the morning,” Kole informed her.
She nodded and turned to Denis, who instantly knew what she wanted.
“Let’s go down to the basement. I’ll show you what we’ve got.”
“I can’t wait.” She turned to Kole, who nodded in return.
“We’ll finish this discussion in the morning once the blueprints are here. For now, let’s get some rest.”
Chapter 20
Kole followed Mila and Denis down to the cellar. He knew that she would be excited about the arsenal they kept in the house. This may be a vacation home, but he could never be too careful. He always wanted to ensure that he was well-protected no matter where he was.
He knew that Corneal would come around to liking Mila once he got to know her. He was proud of how Mila handled herself, and he knew not to cut in on their polite spat. Pride filled his chest as he watched her handle herself.
“We have a little bit of everything,” Denis announced. Kole knew that the two shared a love for weapons. He held back a yawn as he leaned back against the wall, as Denis used the biometric pad to unlock the private room that was hidden behind a bookcase.
Mila gasped as the bookshelf moved to the side, revealing another door. Denis opened the door to the secret room. Lights flooded the room as they entered, and Kole pushed off the wall to follow them. He loved the look of awe on her face. It was funny to him, that Mila wasn’t a woman who got excited over flowers and such, but weapons. The look on her face now was that of someone who just opened their gifts on Christmas morning to find what they had hoped for.
The room had displays of weapons on all four sides. There was a massive island in the middle of the room that was used for storage. It was a room that they built on once they had purchased the home. With Denis, they had nothing but the best. Weapons were his first love, and Kole could always trust that his security head would take his job serious.
“This is beautiful,” she murmured, going over to the wall and pulling one of the short shot guns down. He watched as she handled the weapon. She was a fighter all right. The way she moved with the weapon, testing it out and aiming it to the wall, let him know that she was a perfectionist.
“That’s light, quick to reload, and even has a silencer on it,” Denis noted, coming to stand next to her.
“Don’t you have something that goes with that so she can strap it to her back?” Kole asked.
“I like the way you think, babe.” She smiled at him. His heart skipped at her smile and knew that he was definitely smitten with her. Her face lit up as Denis produced what she would need. “You could
arm a small army with everything down here.”
“We just got this new glock. You would like it. It’s more modified than the version you have.” Denis pointed to a few of the hand guns on another wall. Kole took a seat in the corner chair, knowing that they would be down here for a while.
What he was proposing was dangerous, but it was the only way they could end the war. Vladen would have to be the one to call off the hit, and if he didn’t, he would die. They were taking a chance. Killing the head of a mafia family was a risky move. His successor would either continue the war, wanting revenge for the death of their pakhan, or if Vladen acted on his own, may use the pakhan’s death as a way to wipe the slate clean for their organization.
“Who would be the successor for Vladen if he dies?” Kole asked.
“Either his second, Abram Golovakha, or his son, Edik, but I’m not sure his son would be ready. He’s young, and still making his way up in the ranks. He’s a hothead from what I’ve heard.”
“So, by taking out Vladen, we could possibly be creating a commotion in their organization,” he murmured, thoughts running wild.
“Quite possibly,” she agreed. He looked up and found her mesmerized by the knives. He could see his head of security was having fun, displaying all they had. He watched as Denis carefully opened a drawer and pulled out a few more to show to her.
“I love this one. It has a serrated edge and will do some damage.” Denis handed her a dagger.
“Denis, if I didn’t already love Kole, you would be a close second,” she chuckled, testing the grip as Denis barked out a laugh.
“Hey, don’t be getting any ideas,” Kole warned, throwing Denis a stern look. He stood from the chair and walked over to her, needing to feel her in his arms. He pulled her back toward him, where she instantly melted against his chest.
“I’m not crazy.” Denis held his hands up as he chuckled. “Maybe in the next lifetime.”
Kole knew his friend was playing, but the jealousy monster reared his head anyway at their playful banter.