by Piper Stone
Do not step foot inside Spain without fear of retaliation.
Until the day my father had died, no one else had attempted something so egregious. With Rafael on notice that his holdings were under attack, he would need to draw in additional power from law enforcement as well as other strategic leaders. I would be curious how he planned on doing that.
However, what no one knew is that I’d already developed an alliance with the fellow Dons Rafael had ousted. They were merely waiting for my call-in order to unleash their wrath for being dealt significant blows to their respective organizations.
I’d insisted that I handle Rafael myself.
There were waiters everywhere, enough people that taking a tour of the house wouldn’t be noticed. I grabbed two glasses of champagne, sliding one into her hand before guiding her into the main room. The ornate Spanish interior was complete with a large stone fireplace, the space the size of a ballroom.
“This is beautiful,” she whispered. “But cold.”
“It was once a church.”
“Isn’t that fascinating. And pompous.”
When she tried to pull away from me, I yanked her elbow. “Stay close, my lovely Devon. At least for now. You’ll get your chance to study the room.”
She shifted toward me, purring then brushing her lips across my cheek. “You’re the one who will draw more attention.”
“We shall see.”
Just being inside the house pulled another round of anger close to the surface. While Rafael was nowhere to be seen, I noticed Emilio holding court toward the end of the room.
“Where is the crest from here?” she asked quietly.
There wasn’t a man in the room who wasn’t watching her intently as we walked further into the festively decorated space. Just as I’d experienced in the airport, a pang of jealousy washed into my system. “If you look behind us, there are two hallways. One leads to the main portion of the house. The other corridor leads to a second building used for business. There are no maps of the facility, but I was allowed to see the space once a long time ago. I doubt it’s changed. Once inside the building, the library is located on the west side, the last room.”
“Wait a minute. You’re not certain everything is the same as years before?” She took a step away, pressing her hand against me.
I brought the same hand to my mouth, taking my time to nuzzle my face against it, using the opportunity to scan what I could see of the perimeter. “I assure you that Rafael is a creature of habit.”
“My God. You’re taking a significant chance.”
“As I said, it’s necessary. This is just a party and nothing else.”
She turned around slowly, keeping a plastic smile on her face. “Fine. A party. Both passageways are lit up suggesting they are welcoming visitors.”
“As expected, but not yet. I need to make certain this isn’t a trap. You will obey my command.”
“Why, yes, sir.”
Another round of filthy thoughts rushed into my mind, my hunger increasing. Now wasn’t the time to talk about anything but the business at hand. Growling, I scanned the room once again, searching for any sign of Rafael. While everyone was masked, it was easy enough to recognize several upper-level politicians as I overheard a few of the conversations. I dared to guide her closer to Emilio, enjoying the way he had everyone enthralled with whatever story he was telling.
He’d changed from the lanky boy I remembered much like I had. What a shame his father had fucked up any chance of working together.
“Be very careful,” I advised.
“Interesting guy,” she whispered.
“Dangerous. Keep that in mind.” While Emilio was saying nothing of any real interest, it gave me the opportunity to identify a few of the other guests, many of whom I remembered from years before. It would seem very little had changed, those with power hungry for me.
Those without power eager to ride on the coattails of those who had it.
Even if it meant selling their souls.
After a few seconds, Emilio noticed Devon. As a smile crossed his face, I bristled. When he walked closer, I was prepared to reach for the knife I’d secured against my leg. I took a deep breath, waiting to see what he would do.
As he took her hand, bringing it to his mouth, his husky words only fueled my anger.
“La criatura mas hermosa de la habitcion.” Sighing, he repeated the words in English. “The most beautiful creature in the room.”
“Gracias, buen señor. Una fiesta fabulosa,” she replied, her accent flawless.
I resisted laughing at her response. ‘Thank you, kind sir. A fabulous party.’ Perhaps I didn’t need to worry about her ability to interact.
“Ah, and you come with Zorro,” he added as he turned his head in my direction.
For a few seconds, there was no doubt he was attempting to recognize me.
I nodded out of expected respect. “Only as her bodyguard, I assure you.”
“Emilio Perez,” he said as he held out his hand.
I grasped it with vigor, squeezing as I cocked my head. “Santiago Romero.”
“I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of meeting you.”
Chuckling, I released my hold, but my eyes never left his. “My business brings me to Barcelona for a few days. I’m grateful for the invitation to such a spectacular event.”
After a few seconds of hesitation, he gave her another long and very heated onceover. “It is our pleasure. I do hope both of you enjoy the party. If your… bodyguard will allow, I would enjoy a dance later.”
“Of course,” she mewed, giving him a warm smile. When he walked away, she hissed. “Another pig. That was bold of you.”
“That was necessary as well. Emilio and I grew up together. There was no sign of recognition.”
“Often that comes with time, Santiago,” she stated defiantly.
“We shall see.”
As we continued milling through the crowd, I was finally able to catch a glimpse of Rafael moments later.
There was no mistaking the man who thought he was God. His entrance was just as grand as his ridiculous outfit. He was beaming with happiness, not at all what I’d expected with regard to his mood. However, after a few seconds of observation, I noticed a nervous tic in the corner of his mouth as he continuously scanned the room.
“Rafael, I assume?” Devon asked.
“Yes. If I’m not mistaken, it would appear he’s anticipating my entrance.”
“Are you certain you still want to do this?”
“I assure you, my princess, I wouldn’t avoid it for the world.” I checked for Emilio. He was already entertaining another group of guests at the other end of the great hall. “Now is your time. I doubt you’ll have more than a few minutes. Get what you need quickly.”
“Where are you going?”
I gave her a look, offering a sly smile. “To do some investigation of my own. I’ll only be gone for a few minutes. That should provide you with enough time.”
“I’ll do my best. What if I get caught?”
“I have no doubt that amongst your many skills is the ability to get out of a difficult situation. While I won’t be able to come to your defense initially if things get out of hand, I assure you that I will find you. As soon as you’ve had the time to gather what you need, we will leave. Perhaps a nice dinner in the heart of Barcelona is in order.”
“You are taking this far too nonchalantly, Santiago.”
“Because I do trust you.”
I nodded then left her alone, turning around only once, watching as she managed to slip into the darkness of the passageway. As I made my way toward Rafael, I made note of the people who’d surrounded him, including two men who were obvious guards. I was able to catch a glimpse of their weapons even as they tried to keep them hidden. That was unusual behavior for a man like Rafael.
My message had been heard loud and clear.
While I wouldn’t risk the possibility of being identified, I managed to
get close enough to hear a portion of his discussions about a new business venture. As I listened to the words, a cold chill shifted down my spine.
I moved further away, yet still able to listen to what he was saying. Now I was enraged, murderous thoughts entering my mind.
Within seconds, I realized that my instincts had been correct.
There was someone betraying me.
I felt an imminent need to get us the hell out of his estate and off the grounds. If I was right, there were already systematic searches in order. No wonder I’d noticed additional guards. Ten minutes had passed and she’d yet to return. Something was wrong, every red flag raising. Then I realized that Emilio was no longer in the room.
As I headed toward the corridor, another group of soldiers moved into the room, fanning out as they continued their search. It would appear I’d been played the entire time.
And I’d been foolish enough to walk into a trap.
Chapter 12
Devon
Terror.
I should feel nothing but cold, hard fear from the ridiculousness of the operation that Santiago was insistent on concluding. However, the hard pumping of my adrenaline was a direct reminder of the way I’d felt all those years ago after securing the gorgeous and very expensive pieces I’d been paid to steal. There was nothing like the rush, the intensity of the moment given the danger.
That’s exactly what I felt as I made my way down the corridor.
I’d taken pride in how I’d managed to break down every security system, never damaging anything else in the location. There’d also never been a single innocent person hurt in the attempt.
The concept sounded ridiculous today. What I wouldn’t give to go back to that moment in time. I’d tell the rebellious girl not to waste her time on the boy who’d dragged her down a wrong path. I’d also make certain she knew that there was only a limited time to spend with her parents before her entire world would be shattered.
There was no going back, no way of altering my life.
But I’d seen the look in his eyes after he’d heard about my parents. While the story had likely taken him back to ugly memories, I’d been able to tell he was upset for me. He had empathy as well as a moment of unselfishness. But I could have sworn I’d seen more.
Including love.
I bit my lower lip, trying to hold back unwanted tears. This was no time or place for an emotional breakdown, for God’s sake. But damnit, I did care about the man. Why? Why would I open up to him?
Because he’d acted like he cared.
Then he’d shut down all over again, pretending as if his need for revenge was the only thing that mattered. Oh, who was I kidding? He was using me for my particular skills and nothing more.
Even though the passion was off the charts.
Even though the electricity was explosive.
There could never be anything more.
Even if I wanted there to be.
I leaned against the wall of the corridor, trying to regroup. I couldn’t seem to take my mind off him. He was so enigmatic, powerful in every way. And so damn sexy. I closed my eyes briefly, admonishing my ridiculous thoughts. What did it matter at this point?
Stop. Just stop feeling sorry for yourself. Do the job. Get the rest of the money. Change your entire world.
That was the plan, at least as long as I lived.
At minimum the pep talk did me some good. I was able to plaster a smile on my face, putting one foot in front of the other.
As the corridor gave way to another beautiful atrium-style foyer, I managed to take a deep breath. There were colorful lights hanging from the wooden beams, tropical plants swaying the open air, and gorgeous pillar-style candles adding a warm glow.
At least there were several guests who’d made their way to the various rooms, the majority of which housing beautiful works of art. From what I could guess, my presence wouldn’t draw unnecessary attention. However, I couldn’t help but continue to pay attention if I was being followed. No one seemed to notice me or care.
I found the room and it was exactly where Santiago had remembered. The door was open, the shimmer of lights indicating admittance was allowed. When I walked inside, I was impressed that Santiago’s memories of the dimensions were almost identical. The location was indeed set up as a library of sorts, only there were several ornate columns holding all glass boxes with objects positioned inside. I inched closer, hating the way my pulse continued to increase.
Two of the secured boxes highlighted rare first editions of books. Another presented two incredible pieces of jewelry. Still another housed a vibrant sculpture.
But in the center of the room was the crest. The stolen piece seemed to be the most prized possession of all. As I walked closer, I kept my eye on the door initially before shifting my attention to the corners and along the ceiling. There were no visible cameras, but I had a feeling they were in position in nondescript locations.
I inched closer, studying the magnificent piece. It was truly a gorgeous presentation. I could see why it meant so much to Santiago, but I wasn’t certain the crest was worth dying for. The glass was at least an inch thick, sensors located in several areas, which made the container all but impenetrable.
The lock on the box itself had a code. Sighing, I realized it was going to be next to impossible to break that without the will of God intervening. I turned toward the set of windows, inching closer and peering outside. At least the room was located on the first floor; however, there was a relatively steep drop-off after a few feet. That meant the entrance and exit would need to be through the auxiliary door. I was beginning to believe the task was next to impossible.
“You’re interested in the family’s lovely works of art?”
His deep baritone came from right behind me, a voice I recognized. Emilio. Stiffening, I shifted around to face him. The man had obviously followed me and the way he was staring at me indicated his interest had nothing to do with art.
Shit.
This couldn’t be any worse.
“Very much so. My mother was a painter before she became very ill.” I maintained the lie in case Emilio asked questions of his goons holding court at the entrance.
“I am very sorry to hear that,” he half whispered, his tone just as sultry as Santiago’s. What was it about Spanish men that seemed so sexy?
“Thank you. You do have some beautiful pieces.”
He inhaled in an exaggerated manner. There was no doubt the asshole was undressing me with his eyes.
I stood my ground, keeping a smile on my face.
“There are some things much more beautiful than steel and rubies.” He reached out, acting as if he was going to touch me. While I didn’t flinch, I hardened my look.
The sound of laughter caught his attention. Emilio hissed as he glanced toward the couple entering the room.
“Emilio. I was hoping we would run into you,” the man stated as he walked closer.
“And you’ve found me. I will be right with you.” Emilio’s smile faded as he shifted back in my direction. “Tell me, lovely princess. Are you happy with your bodyguard and have you known him long?”
Laughing, it was easy to tell he was fishing. “I’ve known Santiago for almost four years. I assure you that he made my time living in Madrid much easier.” Sighing, I dragged my tongue across my lips.
He studied me intently before reaching for my hand. “Well, as I said before, I do hope you’ll save me a dance. Now, if you’ll excuse me, the Martins are old family friends. Please enjoy the works of art. If you have any questions, let me know.”
“Thank you, Emilio. I very much appreciate your offer.” I held my smile until he walked away, cursing under my breath as he greeted the couple with open arms. I had to play this out as well as keep my cool.
Sadly, there was no way I could take pictures or anything else. I clutched my small purse, trying to pretend like I was enjoying studying the various books on the shelves, moving from one to another.
“This is magnificent,” Mrs. Martin stated in a gleeful tone. From her southern accent, I could clearly tell she was American. And she was pointing to the crest.
“Yes, a family heirloom,” Emilio said, the husky tone in his voice sending a chill down my spine.
“You Europeans value your family crests,” Mr. Martin said in a joking tone.
“Our family goes back several generations. The piece has been with us for years.” Emilio’s answer almost made me laugh. Who the hell was he kidding? I was able to read the De Leon family name easily. “And yes, we value our family heritage very much.”
“Would it be possible to hold the lovely piece?” the woman asked.
I held my breath. Would he be so stupid to allow her to see it?
Emilio seemed to hesitate, and I continued to feel the heat of his stare. “I think that would all right given how close you are to my father. However, just for a few moments.”
While I glanced over my shoulder, I shifted to another location in closer proximity. He’d blocked the couple from being able to see the numbers he punched in, but I was able to see a portion of the console. Sadly, I could only make out two of the numbers. Damn it. I was starting to have a very bad feeling about this.
When he lifted the glass, the female guest gasped. “That is just exquisite.”
“Be very careful,” Emilio instructed. “This is delicate.”
I found it difficult to take my eyes off the interaction as he placed the sacred piece in the woman’s hand. Santiago had been right about my abilities. I’d been good at what I did because I’d learned to trust my instincts. Mine was screaming to get out of here. I had a very bad feeling the entire scene unfolding in front of me was nothing more than a setup.
Before I had a chance to get the hell out of the room, the sound of a single gunshot being fired erupted into the room.
Oh, my God.
Santiago.
No. No.
Fear rushed into me, my thoughts drifting to the man who possessed me. What if he’d been shot? What if…