Page 165 of Taint My Soul

Then we get in the car and drive back to the mansion.

CHAPTER SIXTY-TWO

SAINT

It’s been weeks since I assumed the position of the syndicate. I haven’t had a meeting with the boys who worked for my father and moved around our product in several parts of the city. Even though our family benefited more from moving our cargo out of the country to other associates, we still had several bases here controlled by trusted men who had been part of the Black Viper for years.

The room is packed with the leaders of Runners we have in the city. About five of them in their several outfits.

I’m sitting on my throne, hands resting against the polished wooden table, eyes on the men before me. Sinclair and Cross are here, as well as Elio. He stands beside me, hands resting on top of the throne as he observes the men before us.

I had taken my time to explain everything to him over the free time we had after sitting down with Dr. Khadija and trying to strike a new bargain with Prince Kane, whose promises I’ve broken.

Elio knows everything. Starting from me, the boss and king, to the consigliere, enforcer, underboss, capos/runners, soldiers, and the associates we had in this city and outside the country.

He’s very much aware of how the Black Viper works. He’s also now a part of it and has a tattoo on his chest to prove it. Amongst other tattoos that I wouldn’t like to share in a meeting. Those are for closed doors only.

I’m not anywhere near better, but I’m trying. And I’ll keep doing my best for the family and the syndicate.

Olivia took over Seven Stone Finance and has signed the contract deal with Prince Kane.

I won’t stop either until Virgil’s found. That’s my priority since all I have to do is focus on the syndicate.

“Welcome.” I announce. “It’s been a while since we have had a gathering like this. The last time everyone was here, my father sat on this throne. But this time, I’m the one with the cards, and I hope you’ll extend the loyalty you’ve had for the men and women of my family to me.”

They all murmur in agreement.

“I just wanted to make a few changes to the syndicate. You are all aware that my brother, the enforcer, is missing. Cross and I are scouting every corner of the Red Island to have him returned home, and we will find him.” I continue, voice firm and steady. “I have decided to make a few changes when it comes to the family business. My grandfather had divided this city between his two loyal sons, but I’d like to merge it back with Sinclair King as the Underboss, and my youngest brother, Cross, as the consigliere of the syndicate.”

“What about the enforcer?” The man in the left corner asks.

“I’m getting to that.” My gaze cuts sharply. “For now, Sinclair’s second in command will take over as the enforcer, but he will stay close to the underboss. Everything that happens in this city gets back to us because he holds as much power as I do and still has his rules and territory. Do y’all understand?”

“Yes, sir.” They echo.

“Good. We’ll distribute new products soon, so make sure you get me my money.” I rise to my feet and turn on my heels, facing the window. My eyes scan the field behind the building, and my lips curl into a smirk. “And get word on the street that Saint King is the presiding boss of the Black Viper Syndicate.”

“Yes, sir.”

After they leave the office, it’s just me, Sinclair, Cross, and Elio in the room. I brief them about the family dinner we’ll be having tonight in celebration of how everything has worked out for the family. Then they leave, and it’s just Elio and me in the house.

“See, I told you it’ll be perfect.” He says behind me. I face him with a smirk on my lips.

“You did. And I trust you.” I put my hand around his shoulder and press a kiss on his lips. “We’ve done all the heavy lifting, and I’d really appreciate it if we take some time off.”

“Time off?” He lifts his brows at me.

I don’t like it when he plays these games with me. He knows how much I’m so down bad for him.

“I have been thinking about you all fucking day, baby. I can’t get you out of my head.”

He smirks, cheeks heating with want. “Tell me, Saint…” He whispers, and I interrupt him even before I can finish the sentence. “I love it when you say my name.” I whine.

“Really?”

“I love everything you do.” I grunt and lean closer.

“You really want me?”