Page 111 of Taint My Soul

“No,” he sighs. “My name’s Elio Layton.”

“Elio, huh?”

“Yes, Elio.”

“Give me their names.” I demand, jaw clenching as my steel gaze meets his softer one.

“It’s not that simple.”

“It is, Mason… Elio,” I correct myself.

“Don’t call me, Elio.” He bites the words out.

“Why are you protecting them? All of this could be over if you gave me their names.”

“Even if it is, you seem to be forgetting that we can’t be together.”

“This is not about our romantic relationship, Mason. This is about your safety. I need their names.”

“You don’t get it, do you? If they die at your hands, it’s their blood on my head.”

I chuckle. “You’re so naïve, boy. This world doesn’t play fair. This world doesn’t reward innocence.”

“But it’s the only thing I have left! It’s the only good thing I have had.”

Now I see. He’s trying desperately not to acknowledge the violent parts of him, to keep them hidden the same way it’s always been. Because he’s terrified of himself and the things he could do with all that anger.

“Tell me you don’t feel angry. Merely an hour ago, you were horrified by everything that happened to you, and there’s only one common factor. You don’t want to be a monster, fine. Let me be your devil. Let me be everything you’re terrified of. As long as it keeps you alive. As long as you’re safe. As long as you never have to look over your shoulder for the rest of your life.” I breathe forcefully as I close the gap between us, completely aware that he’d deny me this piece of information that could end it all. Because seeing the monster in me means he gets to recognize the monster in him as well. “If you keep protecting them, then I can’t trust you, Mason. You should leave.”

I step aside. His hands tremble at his side. His eyes search mine for certainty. If he leaves, I’m never going back on my word. I’m never choosing him again. Hell, I won’t want him, no matter how torturous it seems.

My heart hammers in my chest, counting down every second while I await his decision.

His chest rises for a hot breath. He chews his lower lip in contemplation, and he surges forward. I expect him to walk past me, but he throws himself at me.

My heartbeat slows, and relief washes over me. I wrap my hand around him.

He’s choosing me.

He’s choosing to stay.

“David Layton. Neo. Vincent Bishop. And Cyrus Deveraux.”

I knew the Bishop guy. Our families had a short-term alliance in the past, and since then, we’ve been enemies. He knows not to cross the line when it comes to what belongs to the Kings, and he’ll pay for everything. And Cyrus, I didn’t think he’d be a part of this at all. Not after what happened at the Greyhouse.

“Cyrus…” I grit.

“Gravedigger. That’s how I could put two and two together.”

“Bet! I’ll have it taken care of.” I pull out my phone and send the names to Cross. I need all four of them apprehended tonight. I send a picture of Ali’s contact, too. They’re all working together. Ali will know exactly where they are since he’s been watching them from the shadows.

“But their location?”

“You don’t have to worry. My brothers will find them.” I slip my phone back into my pocket and stare at him. He doesn’t lean off my chest. He nods and tightens his hold around me. I let him hold me until all the tension racking up in his bones fades away. Until he starts feeling lighter.

“Do you want to eat something?” I ask.

“Yeah, I haven’t eaten in days.” He responds, and my lips quirk up in regret. When your life’s coming apart, everything tastes bland. And Mason’s damn near close to losing his will to live. I can’t let that happen. Not when my mother didn’t have anyone or anything to make her stay.