Page 131 of Watched

“Fuck you, you stupid bitch!” the man screeches as Blade and I step beside Jared.

Nina smiles, stepping back in front of him. “Tell me what I need to know, and I may just spare your life.”

The man’s swollen, bloodied lip quivers, his head bowing in defeat. “Guildo Castillo.”

“Mmm,” Nina hums, lifting his head with the tip of the machete.

“No. No! NO!” His scream rings in my head as Nina slowly drives the machete into his throat.

Fucking messy.

Nina scowls and removes the bloodied weapon. “I lied. No one stabs my mother and lives to gloat about it.”

Jared’s whistles, and two men and a woman promptly move to untie the dead man and carry him away, one taking Nina’s weapon.

She turns to us with a bright smile. “Blade Wilder, my favourite psychopath.”

Grinding his cigarette on the bottom of his boot and pocketing the butt, Blade nods. “Nina.”

“How’d I do?” She struts toward him, her Louboutins somehow pristine clean.

“Not bad,” he says emotionlessly. “Lacked flare, though.”

“I would’ve let you do it, but this was personal.”

“I understand.”

Her onyx eyes slide to me. “This your brother?”

“Rain, Nina,” Blade introduces. “Nina, Rain.”

I nod once.

Jared pushes off the pillar to stand beside his sister and asks, “You have a proposal?”

My heart beats steadily as I nod. “I’ve encountered a problem with an old acquaintance. I believe your people are a better fit than those whose loyalty I currently don’t have.”

“Mmm,” Nina hums. “I’m still not hearing the payment for said protection, Rain.”

My father always taught me to never insult someone with a price. They’ll tell you, and then you negotiate.

“Whatever you see fit for four individuals who won’t make themselves known until instructed. They certainly can’t be squeamish with blood.”

They share a knowing look before nodding. “How long?” Jared asks.

“Until morning.”

“£2000 each,” Nina negotiates.

“£1000,” I counter, “and I’ll supply you with all the information the feds have on you, including any new information.”

Jared chuckles quietly. “That information is something we’re aware of.”

“So, you know about the RICO, then?” Jared’s stubbled jaw pulses, but Nina displays no discomfort at the new information. “I can get you every officer’s name and any undercover detective and informant. Anyone snitches, you’ll know,” I add.

Involving the Huxleys was an avenue I was incredibly reluctant to explore, but I had no choice but to confront Dad and have him somewhat compliant so the Aston girls and Rome are no longer in his scope.

Jared looks past me. “I’m not seeing Xan.”