Page 15 of Tangled Roses
“They are lovers. Long-standing lovers and after a quick check on dates and schedules, it appears they visit the same cities at the same time.”
“So you think he was in London to meet with Marsha?”
“It’s probable.”
“But that doesn’t mean they weren’t involved in my father’s murder.” I remind him, and he nods thoughtfully.
“They are connected in more ways than one.” He grins at his own innuendo.
“So, Nikolai and Marsha are lovers who go way back.” I reach for my phone.
“I’ll feed the information back to my brother and give him something to work with.”
Luka nods as I press call and as always, Titus answers immediately.
“Arman.”
I waste no time and fill him in and a long pause is my reward before he says, “This is interesting information. Do some more digging tonight. Alcohol has a habit of loosening tongues and you must become their fucking best friend if you are to learn what’s really going on.”
My heart sinks because I know exactly what I’m required to do and prostituting myself for my family is just business, after all.
Whatever it takes.
That’s always been our motto and I’m beginning to hate it now.
I even contemplate sending Luka in my place. This is right up his sadistic street and yet I know this is one problem only I can solve.
“I’ll keep you informed.”
I cut the call because there is nothing left to say and lean back in my seat and reach for a cigarette.
“I thought you gave up.”
Luka says flippantly as he offers me a light and I exhale a smoke ring and say casually, “I had.”
“It’s that bad.” He shakes his head. “If it’s any consolation, the escort is easy on the eye.”
“Oh yes.” I flick the ash into the potted plant and grin.
“Change of plan.”
He raises his eyes and this time I smirk.
“Bring me Gabrielle Adams, suitably dressed, to the lobby at seven-thirty. She has no choice.”
Luka laughs softly and his eyes settle on his phone as he grins. “It will be my pleasure.”
CHAPTER 9
ELLIE
Where are those Advils when I need them? My head is pounding and my limbs ache as if I ran a marathon yesterday.
The memories gradually resurface and I remember the call from Arman that now holds the trophy as my most embarrassing moment ever.
They saw me naked.
His entire security detail and the man himself, not to mention that bastard Luka. I am positively cringing because even I don’t see myself naked. Not willingly, anyway.