Page 37 of Deadly Hands

“Agreed.” Triumph flickered in Reuben’s eyes. “Though you should know, Alexei already asked me to look at some property deals next week.”

“Of course he did.” A different tension coiled in Nikon’s gut as Reuben’s hands slid under his jacket. “Any other family business I should know about?”

“Just that your security rotation is getting predictable.” Reuben’s breath ghosted across Nikon’s throat. Desire pooled low in Nikon’s belly as nimble fingers traced beneath his shirt. “And I may have promised Zhou exclusive access to certain high-stakes games that don’t exist yet.”

Nikon’s voice dropped lower, rougher. “Games that will exist once I approve the designs on my desk?”

“Complete with private entrance and enhanced security measures.” Reuben’s teeth grazed Nikon’s pulse point, drawing a soft sound from him. “So, is that a yes?”

Later, they would deal with Andrey’s questions and Grigorii’s port meeting. Later, they would balance power and family, love and danger. But for now...

A phone buzzed on the counter - Alexei’s ringtone. No doubt with fresh intel about Andrey’s movements.

Nikon let the phone ring.

THE END