Chapter 1 - The Stranger
Vincent stepped between them.
He did not look at her.
He placed himself squarely in the path of the pale-haired stranger, entirely blocking Mave from the man’s line of sight.
“Dante,” Vincent said.
His voice was terrifyingly calm. It lacked the polished, diplomatic edge he used with the politicians earlier. This was the voice of the Costa Syndicate.
The stranger stopped three feet away, slipping both hands into his pockets.
“Vincent,” Dante replied, his smile widening to reveal uneven teeth. “It’s been a while. You’re looking well for a man carrying so much debt.”
Vincent did not flinch.
“You’re trespassing, Dante. The Rossi family was not invited tonight.”
“I’m just here to appreciate the ambiance,” Dante mused, peering over Vincent’s broad shoulder. “And the exquisite company you keep.”
Mave felt a cold spike of adrenaline pierce her chest.
Dante was looking directly at her again.
“The secretary,” Dante chuckled softly. “The woman who signs the checks. It’s funny how someone so delicate holds the keys to such a heavy kingdom.”
Vincent took a step forward, closing the distance.
His body shielded Mave completely.
“Turn around and walk out those doors,” Vincent ordered quietly. “Or I will have Leo drag you out through the service elevator.”
Dante’s smile faded.
“I’m just delivering a message, Vincent. My boss says the Queens port belongs to us now. If your trucks pull into that dock tomorrow morning, they will burn.”
Dante took a step backward, raising his hands in mock surrender.
“Have a wonderful evening, Mr. Costa.”
He turned and melted back into the crowd of oblivious socialites.
Mave stood frozen against the marble pillar, her heart hammering against her ribs.
Vincent turned around to face her.
His jaw was clenched tight, and the muscles in his neck were rigid.
He reached out and wrapped his large, warm hand around her upper arm.
He pulled her abruptly forward until her chest was pressed flush against the lapel of his charcoal suit.
Mave gasped, her champagne glass slipping from her fingers and shattering on the marble floor.
Vincent leaned down, his mouth brushing against her ear.
“Do not leave my side,” he whispered.
The intensity in his voice paralyzed her.
“Who was that?” Mave breathed, trembling slightly against him.
Vincent looked down at her, his dark eyes burning with a sudden, overwhelming protectiveness.
May you like
“That was the man who just declared war on my family,” Vincent replied. “And he knows exactly who you are.”
Before Mave could process the terrifying reality of his words, the massive crystal chandeliers above the ballroom suddenly flickered and died, plunging the room into total darkness.
