Broken by His Hand - Piper Stone Page 0,87

ledger. Of course, dropping the bomb that I’d discovered the missing artifact likely brought the asshole out of his hole. I knew he had help.”

“You don’t understand.”

“Mmm... I think I do. A very good friend of mine reminded me that everyone has a price, including you. My family attorney. My best friend.”

He twisted his mouth, his face reddening. “Your father was a fucking asshole, Michael. Even you knew that. Hell, you fought him the majority of your life, which is why I was shocked when you decided to reopen the club.”

“What happened, William? Did my father have something on you, perhaps some disgusting proclivity that you couldn’t allow in the open?” I spit out the words, taking a minute to rake my hands through my hair before continuing. “Let me guess, Drake Samuels had access to this special information that the inner circle kept close to their chests.” I could see the look of surprise on his face. “Yes, I am well aware his father was a member of the inner circle. As a matter of fact, I am now in the possession of the entire list. I will handle them as I see fit. You, on the other hand, have lived out your usefulness. That is unless you know of the location of the ledger.”

“You don’t understand anything, Michael. You are far too arrogant, just like your father.”

I noticed beads of sweat trickling down his face. “That may be the case, William. However, as you so duly noted, I’ve spent the better part of the last ten years doing everything not to be like my father. That is going to change. I’m through with being fucked with by anyone. And that includes you.”

“I don’t know where the ledger is, Michael. I swear to you.”

“You know,” I said quietly before easing the sunglasses onto my face. “I believe you. If you had known, there is no doubt in my mind that you would have used the damning information to your benefit. Perhaps my brothers and I don’t need the ledger after all. We’ve collected enough... information to keep the members in line if necessary.”

“What do you want from me, Michael? I did everything your father wanted for years, every single bidding the asshole wanted me to do and for what? A measly one hundred fifty thousand dollars a year while he made millions extorting money from the richest of the rich. Imagine how I felt. The bastard lost his life because of his greed.”

I closed the distance, looming over him, forcing myself to maintain control. “I am well aware that my parents were murdered, William. You don’t have the balls for murder; however, I am going to find the person responsible. When I do, you better believe that attaching a cinderblock around the asshole’s ankle and tossing him into the river will be far too good for him. Now, as far as what I want from you? Disappear. You have one chance to get the fuck out of my family’s sight and stay that way or you will face my wrath. Do I make myself clear?”

He licked his lips, unable to look me in the eyes. “Yes. I understand.”

After patting him on the shoulder, I stepped away. “Good man. Now, I have a party to get ready for.” I tipped my head back, basking in the sun as I walked away. Damn, I enjoyed a beautiful fall day. There was only one thing better than the gorgeous sun.

The woman who’d stolen my heart.

As I walked toward my car, I couldn’t help but whistle. Today was a very good day.

Tomorrow, my brothers and I would begin to clean up the final mess that was our legacy. Perhaps we’d make one of our own.

Family. Legacy.

The words held an entirely new meaning.

* * *

Sophia

I stood in front of the mirror, studying my reflection, a smile crossing my face. The outfit wasn’t anything I would have ever considered purchasing or wearing. However, tonight was a special occasion and I was playing a delicious, sinful role. I heard the sound of footsteps and grabbed my mask, positioning it in place before turning around.

When Michael walked into the bedroom, I was taken aback by the look in his eyes.

As if he wanted to devour me.

As if I’d surprised a man who was tough to please.

As if there would never be anyone else in his life.

Even the way his chest rose and fell, his mouth slightly open as his breathing became ragged took my breath away.

He shook