more people who hate you, the better for us. Speaking of…are you prepared for tonight? One hundred and eighty-nine RSVPs came in.”
“There is only one I’m concerned about,” I reply, cracking my knuckles.
“You must take this slow, Aleksei. We are in favor with Santo, and therefore, we have the upper hand. You can’t allow your emotions to cloud that. We need to be smart about this.”
He’s right. Until I can speak to Ella, I don’t know what I’m dealing with. I need to know all the circumstances before I act, and tonight will allow this.
“What of Zoya?” I ask, needing a change of pace.
My mother is still MIA, which is troubling. She is far more unstable than I thought. On her own, she’ll be looking for someone to support her, and I have a sneaking suspicion that person will be me.
With Serg gone, she needs another ride. But that won’t be me.
“Nothing yet. Let us hope she’ll find some poor asshole to torment and leave us be.”
We both know that won’t happen.
“I suppose I need to prepare for this evening. Have you spoken to the women?”
Pavel nods. “They’d much prefer it if you were the one who addressed them, seeing as you’re supposed to be their master.”
The thought sickens me, but it’s a necessary evil to ensure I stay on top.
Willow was able to acquire three women who had fallen on hard times. They were living in squalor while working at some strip club. She promised them a roof over their heads, a wage for their troubles, and food. She detailed what was expected of them, and that they were to submit to me because I was their master.
They needed to believe it. Otherwise, this plan wouldn’t work.
When they agreed, she brought them here.
I’ve seen them a handful of times, but in all honesty, I have no interest in them.
Their beauty is unquestionable, but they’re merely a means to an end. That’s all. However, I know Pavel is right.
Tonight is their first real test.
No doubt, my guests will expect them to behave like trained circus animals. With me as their ringmaster.
“Fine. I’ll go see them now.”
“Don’t sound so beaten up about it. Most men would be envious of your circumstances. Three beautiful women, waiting for your command.”
“I’m not most men,” I reply, standing. “Is everything organized?”
Pavel nods. “Yes. Security will be tight. All guests are to relinquish their weapons. If they refuse, they will not gain entry. We still can’t be too sure who’s friend and who’s foe. However, we want everyone to feel welcome.
“Everyone on the guest list has been invited because they’re useful to us. We need all of them on our side.”
This already sounds painful.
“Very well. I’ll see you later.” Hobbling past him, I don’t bother to tell him how much I appreciate his loyalty because he doesn’t want praise. He has settled into his “old” role with ease and so has Max. Saint is well and does what he wants, which is fine by me.
Once out in the long corridor, I commence my walk toward the women’s quarters. This mansion houses twelve bedrooms, more than enough for everyone to have their own. I’ve kept them away from Irina because I wish to shelter her as much as I can.
Celine has just moved in, which gives me some peace of mind. But Irina is smart, so sooner or later, she’ll understand our lifestyle is far from normal.
The elaborate marbled staircase is my worst enemy, and I climb each step painfully slow. There is no element of surprise with this cane. Once I’m at the top, I take a moment to absorb everything.
The crystal chandelier is the centerpiece of the grand hallway. Multiple corridors lead off to the bedrooms and small living areas, but this communal space always takes my breath away. Denka Orlov’s famous piano sits in the corner, a reminder of what happens to those who don’t play by the rules.
Taking a left, I make my way toward the bedrooms. My bedroom is at the other end of the house—so is Irina’s—but the hallway is almost a carbon copy of the east wing.
I raise my hand, about to knock, but then I realize masters don’t knock.
Composing myself, I slip my mask into place and play the role I’m destined for. Opening the door, I’m surprised to see all three women within the one bedroom. They’re sitting on the large canopy bed, the sheer gold curtains providing them some cover.
They stop talking when I enter.
Willow has taught