 
### A Healing Heart

By

### Suilan Lee

A Healing Heart

Published by Suilan Lee at Smashwords

Copyright © 2016, **Suilan Lee**

Cover art by Liang Woo

License Notes

Thank you for downloading this free e-book. Although this is a free book, it remains the copyrighted property of the author and may not be reproduced, scanned, or distributed for any commercial or non-commercial use without permission from the author. Quotes used in reviews are the exception. No alteration of content is allowed. If you enjoyed this book, then encourage your friends to download their own free copy. Your support and respect for the property of this author is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the author's imagination and used fictitiously.

_Warning:_ **This eBook contains scenes with adult language, violence and explicit sex scenes between adult males. It is intended for mature audiences only. If you are offended by such content, please remove this eBook from your files**.

***

### 1

Talin Sato carried three garbage bags out of his club. It was drizzling, soft drops on skin. He jogged to the dumpster. Pushing the lid open, Talin swung the garbage bags on top of a growing pile. He hoped the garbage collectors would come early tomorrow. Otherwise, the garbage was going to take over his parking lot. Kicking the bin as he closed it, he pushed dark hair out of his eyes and reached into his pocket for a stick of nicotine gum.

Gods, what he wouldn't do for a cigarette.

He found a mangled stick of gum, the wrap worn from being in his pocket too long. Undoing the wrap, he threw it in the general direction of the bin and popped the gum into his mouth.

Looking up at the dark sky, he closed his eyes as cold raindrops fell on his face. The drops stinging at first, then refreshing, they felt cleansing. When he'd had enough of the cold rain on his face, he turned to head back to the club.

He'd only taken a few steps when he heard a painful cry.

Talin turned to the other end of the parking lot and scowled when he saw black motorcycles parked around a white car. There were three men struggling, one stood to the side watching them.

"Hey," he shouted and ran toward them. "What are you doing?"

"Fuck off, Sato," a familiar voice said.

_Dimitri Sedlackov_.

Of all people, Talin cursed as he reached them.

The young man they were hassling was barely eighteen. Talin wondered how the punk got into this mess. Cursing his luck, Talin moved to stop the two men when they shoved the younger one onto the white car.

"Leave him alone," Talin said.

He tried to grab their arms but they shrugged his hold away, made him feel like they were swatting away a fly, it pissed him off.

"Stay out of this," Dimitri said his cold tone enough to chase off a lesser man.

When one of the men moved to punch the little guy again, Talin shoved him. His shove was hard enough to move him away from the younger man. Talin punched the second man, pushing him away from their victim.

The young man coughed and spat out blood as he leaned on the white car. Talin grabbed the young man's elbow, looking for severe damage. There was a large bruise on the poor kid's lip, but nothing too serious. Talin sighed and turned to Dimitri.

"I told you to keep this shit away from my club."

Talin warned Dimitri, shaking with anger.

Dimitri's companions had moved to stand next to their boss.

Talin refused to think about what he was doing.

Dimitri wasn't exactly a small man. The man was six foot two of solid muscle. One punch from Dimitri would send Talin flying to the ground. Talin swallowed when Dimitri folded his arms against his chest. His harsh features a stunning mix of handsome and deadly sin.

"We're just talking. You've misunderstood the situation."

"This young man is my customer. You're beating him up in my parking lot. I think I understand the situation quite well." Talin pointed a finger at Dimitri and his men. "Whatever you're into; I don't want it in my place of business."

"We're not inside the club," Dimitri said, in a quiet soothing tone.

Talin folded his arms against his chest.

"The parking lot belongs to the club too. If you have a problem with that, check with the town council. Now, you and your companions here should drive off."

Dimitri studied him, his pale blue eyes narrowed.

Talin could tell he was angry, it made him feel uneasy. He fought the urge to step back and instead held Dimitri's gaze, holding firm.

"Let's go," Dimitri said to his two men, then paused to warn Talin. "It's not good to meddle, Sato."

"Thank you for the sage advice, Sedlackov," Talin said with a slight smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

Dimitri mounted his motorcycle. Talin held in his worry as he watched Dimitri and his men ride out of the parking lot.

Talin turned to find the young man wiping blood from his lower lip.

"What's your name?" Talin asked.

"Jon."

"What are you doing messing around with Dimitri? Do you want to die?"

Jon gave him a small smile.

"Maybe he was messing with me," Jon said a bit too smug.

Talin scowled.

"You're an idiot. Come on, I think I have a first aid kit."

"No, thanks," Jon said removing his car keys from his pocket. "Thanks for the help, Mr. Sato. I'll head home now."

"Are you sure?" Talin asked with a frown.

"Quite," Jon said turning to the white car.

He opened the driver's door and slid in.

Talin swept damp hair out of his eyes and shook his head when Jon drove off. Spitting out his gum, he headed back to the club.

"Where were you?" Lori, the club's manager, demanded when he walked in. "Why are you wet? Playing in the rain again, Talin?"

"I was breaking up a fight," Talin said grabbing the towel Lori threw at him from a clean pile beside her.

Lori sat at a table signing inventory forms. The stools were on the tables, and the staff had left for the night.

Taking a stool from one of the tables, he placed it at Lori's table and sat down. The towel she'd given him around his neck.

"What do you know about Dimitri?"

"Are you obsessed with that guy?" Lori glanced up. "You talk about him every time he shows up here. When are you going to have the courage to talk to him?"

"I found his men punching some poor kid in the back. I stopped them and chased them away."

Lori burst out laughing.

"You chased Dimitri away?"

"What, you don't believe me? You should have seen it. I was very cool thank you very much."

Lori dropped her pen on the table.

"You stood up to Dimitri Sedlackov, the hulk of a man with rippling muscles even in his eyes?"

Talin laughed.

"Lori, your expressions sometimes," he shook his head. "Muscles in his eyes...that sounds ridiculous."

Lori sat back in her seat.

"Don't mess around with Dimitri when he's pissed, Talin. I know you're all for standing up for people, but Dimitri—

"What about him?" Talin asked.

Lori shook her head and picked up her pen. She bit her lower lip as she concentrated on the forms she was filling.

Talin watched her for a minute.

He'd hired Lori six months ago. She'd come in looking on the edge, with a fading bruise on her left eye. She'd wanted a job, so he'd let her waitress. She'd thanked him with tears in her eyes. Lori had left an abusive husband.

She'd lived across town with her rich husband, close to her family and friends. When her husband started hitting her, no one had believed he was abusive. One night, she'd decided enough was enough, and left in the night while her husband slept. Her family wouldn't take her in, so she'd worked odd jobs around the city, living in motels.

Talin had figured she moved so much because her husband found her and beat on her. Sure enough, two weeks into the job, she'd shown up with a fresh bruise on her left eye.

Worried for her, Talin had taken her to the police, forced her to make a statement, then given her one of the self-contained rooms on the club's second floor. Her husband hadn't shown up after.

That was five months ago. Now, Lori looked healthy, assured. He liked working with her, so he had promoted her to club manager.

Talin tugged her bangs.

She looked up with a mock scowl. Her green eyes bright, the dark shadows long gone. Lori was healing.

"Since you've grown up in Colston, you must know a lot about Dimitri. Please tell me, Lori," he cajoled.

"Are you going to make coffee if I tell you?" she asked.

"I thought _I_ was the boss. I'm the one who is supposed to ask _you_ to make the coffee."

"Do you want to fill in these forms?"

"Wench."

Talin got up and headed in the direction of the coffeemaker at the bar area.

Lori laughed.

"I can't believe you're afraid of paperwork, boss."

"Yeah, yeah," Talin said as he moved around the elegant counter to the sink. He filled a jug with water and took it to the coffeemaker. "Are you going to tell me or not?"

"There is not much to tell. You know that Dimitri and his younger brother, Lukas, own the Lakeside Marina. Their father owned it before them. Their family has been there for decades. Everyone respects them because they're part of the town, but there are rumors about Dimitri. People are saying that he worked with Caleb Barnes—

"The Caleb Barnes who was arrested last month for cocaine distribution?" Talin asked in shock.

That news had taken over the papers and the gossip mill for weeks. Caleb Barnes was Colston's ex-mayor. He was currently awaiting trial for murder and drug distribution.

"Yep, our corrupt ex-mayor," Lori confirmed.

"No way," Talin shook his head. "Dimitri is too hard, too raw to work with a guy like Barnes."

Lori shrugged.

"People are rarely what they seem, Talin. Believe me," she said with a scoff. "It doesn't help that Dimitri keeps a crew at the marina that is worthy of being called a gang. Those men of his aren't friendly, you know."

Talin sighed because she was right. The two in the parking lot were big, burly, and tattooed. If they invested in intimidation, people would find it hard to approach them. Still, Lori was right. He couldn't stop thinking about Dimitri. The man had taken a liking to his club this past year.

"I wish Dimitri would stop coming here."

Lori glanced at him.

"Good luck with that. The Talon attracts Dimitri's type of crowd. I don't think you can stop him and his crew from coming."

Talin leaned on the sink counter, thoughtful.

This wasn't the first time he'd seen Dimitri in the middle of a fight at his club. Before Lori came to work for him, he'd had a different club manager. Ken Luther, a young guy who'd been a third year student at Colston University.

Talin hadn't known Dimitri and Ken were dating until a fight had started in the club. Ken had started punching Dimitri screaming threats of exposing him, and shouting curses. It had taken four men to break them apart, and carry Ken out of the Talon.

Talin had apologized to Dimitri for Ken's behavior and offered Dimitri free drinks for the night. He'd tried to ask Ken about the fight, but Ken refused to explain his behavior.

Ken quit his job that night.

Dimitri returned to the club the next day as though nothing had happened.

Talin frowned, thinking about Jon, the kid he'd saved.

_What did Dimitri want with him?_

"Talin," Lori's voice penetrated his thoughts. She was leaning on the counter watching him. "Are you thinking about Dimitri? I know you like him. You always make sure his orders are filled before he asks. You talk to everyone in the room, but him. Is there a reason you avoid him?"

Talin pushed off the counter and grabbed a mug from a tray near the sink. He handed it to Lori and watched her add sugar to her black coffee.

"I don't like him, and I'm not avoiding him. He's too rough for me. I'd never let him touch me with a stick," Talin said.

"Uh huh...your loss," Lori winked at him as she sipped her coffee with a happy sigh. "I'm a lowly human so I'd not mind Dimitri's muscles all over me. I get little thrills thinking about it; imagine all-that-strength."

She closed her eyes with a shiver and Talin chuckled at her antics.

Lori smiled and sipped her coffee again.

"It's too bad. Dimitri won't give me a second thought. He likes his lovers lean, gorgeous, and male." Lori narrowed her gaze on Talin. "Judging the amount of time Dimitri spends in here with his buddies, I think he fancies you. Can't you make an exception so I can live vicariously through you?"

Talin laughed at the idea of Dimitri wanting him.

"I think you're lost in Fantasy Island. Please come back to Colston, Lori. Dimitri doesn't fancy me."

"I've lived here for what...six months?" Lori looked around the club. "Why haven't I seen you date anyone, Talin?"

"How do you know I don't have a long line of lovers waiting at my door?"

"I'm your neighbor." Lori grinned. "I would have heard screams of ecstasy coming from your loft by now."

"Hey, this is not a cheap brothel. The walls are very well soundproofed."

"I'll give you that," she said with a wink. "Still, no one comes in here looking for you. I'd have known if you had a boyfriend. Why don't you date?"

Talin shrugged and switched off the coffee machine.

"I think it's time for you to head upstairs, and get some sleep. There is a delivery truck showing up at ten in the morning."

He glanced at his watch and saw that it was five in the morning.

"That's in five hours, gal."

Lori picked up her coffee and turned toward a service door right by the bar counter. The door opened to stairs that went to the second floor.

"Keep evading my questions," Lori said. "I'll get answers from you soon. Either that, or I'll get you a boyfriend."

"I can get my own boyfriends."

"We'll have to see," Lori said as the door closed behind her.

Talin looked around the quiet club. He'd long promised himself never to think of relationships. The Talon was his sole responsibility now. He didn't allow anything else close. Nothing else could fit in his heart. He went to lock the front doors and set the alarm. Another day would start in mere hours.

Lori might tease him for not doing the manual paperwork down here, but upstairs he kept up solid accounts on his computer. There were banking statements to reconcile, expenses to plan, creditors to pay...this was his life now.

Pushing thoughts of Dimitri Sedlackov out of his mind, Talin headed upstairs to his loft.

***

In his loft, Talin removed his boots at the door. He switched on the lights in his living room with a tired sigh. Rubbing his shoulders, he wondered whether to take a shower or soak in a tub of very hot water. He'd spent the whole night hauling crates of booze in the store to make room for incoming stock. The club was short-staffed of late. Maybe he should hire another guy. Stretching his arms above his head, a wide yawn escaped as he walked to his kitchen. He decided on a shower because it meant less work.

"Morning, Talin."

He froze at the kitchen door when he saw Dimitri squeezing fresh oranges at his kitchen table.

"You," Talin said in shock, his arms dropping to his sides. "How did you—

"You and your little girlfriend are quite oblivious when you're talking." Dimitri smiled at him. "You should pay attention to your surroundings."

Talin looked back into his living room. His gaze moving critically over the eclectic collection of couches he owned. The bookshelves along the walls, his computer in the corner with all the invoices piled on the desk. Everything seemed as he'd left it.

"Are you looking for someone?" Dimitri asked, his tone nonchalant. He kept working on the orange juice. "I came alone if that's what you're worried about."

"What are you doing here? How did you get into my loft?"

"I came to see you." Dimitri finished with the juice and dumped the orange peels into a trash bag. He reached into his pocket and held up a key. "I got this from your previous club manager. I never had any use for it until now. I came up the stairs on the side of the building."

"I should call the police. This is harassment—

"I just want to talk," Dimitri insisted taking the jug of orange juice. "I made you fresh orange juice since there is no food in your fridge. How can you survive on peanut butter? You should go grocery shopping. Ask that lady, Lori, to do it for you if you're too busy."

Talin frowned. "Are you having me watched?"

"No. I came to your club around ten o'clock. You were busy working in the store, and didn't stop until around two in the morning. Why don't you ever hire enough staff?"

Talin reached into his pocket and got his cell phone. Lori's stories about Dimitri's drugs and gangs filled his head. He didn't want to be another victim.

"I'm going to call the police."

"And tell them what?" Dimitri asked getting a glass from the cupboard above the sink.

Dimitri poured himself juice and Talin watched him lean negligently on the counter. Dressed in a long-sleeve black t-shirt and black jeans, his midnight hair held back in a short ponytail, Dimitri looked too comfortable in Talin's kitchen.

"You should have some," Dimitri said holding up the glass. "The juice is quite good. I got the oranges from my grandmother's trees. I brought you a whole bag of them."

"I'd like you to leave." Talin entered the kitchen, making sure to stand across the table away from Dimitri.

Dimitri didn't move. His pale blue eyes fixed on Talin.

Dimitri said in a soft tone, "I need to talk to you, Talin."

"We don't have anything to discuss," Talin said. "Are you going to tell me why you were terrorizing that kid in the parking lot?"

"I was protecting you," Dimitri said.

"Protecting me?" Talin scoffed. "Do you think I want a child beaten up for my protection? He was barely eighteen."

"Jon is distributing drugs in your club."

"No."

Talin shook his head. He would have known. He was careful about stuff like that. It could get his club shutdown fast. There was no way.

"You're making shit up, that's not true. From what I've heard, distributing drugs is your job, Dimitri. Are you sure you didn't give them to Jon?"

"I see you've heard the rumors." Dimitri noted. "Do you believe them?"

"You own a marina," Talin said. "I'm pretty sure Barnes paid you well to help him ship the drugs. In which case, if _I_ was smart, I'd call the police and have them arrest you."

"Go ahead." Dimitri challenged his blue eyes hard.

Talin frowned.

"Don't think I won't do it," Talin warned holding up his phone.

"I know you're not bluffing," Dimitri said placing his empty glass on the counter. "If you feel I need to be arrested, then please go ahead and call the police, Talin."

Talin punched in nine-one-one, but his finger paused over the dial button. Visits from police were a nuisance. He frowned at the thought of the amount of trouble he'd have to handle. Talin placed the phone on the kitchen table with a sigh.

"You have five minutes," Talin said glaring at Dimitri. "Then I want you to leave that key you're holding on the table and get out of my loft."

Dimitri smiled a quick flash of perfect teeth. It softened his face, made his eyes friendlier.

"Want some juice? It's really good."

"No."

"You're so stubborn." Dimitri crossed his powerful arms against his chest.

Lori's comments about rippling muscles had him imagining what it would be like to have Dimitri's arms around him. He squelched those thoughts immediately and dragged his gaze away from Dimitri.

"What do you have to tell me?" he asked.

"I want to ask if you've heard anything from Ken Luther."

Talin scowled.

_Of course,_ Dimitri would break into his house to ask about an ex-lover.

"No."

"Are you sure?"

"Quite," Talin said in irritation. "Ken left without an explanation. I was annoyed with him for a time because he left the club understaffed, but now I blame you."

"Me?" Dimitri asked his brow lifting in amusement. "Why?"

"If you two hadn't fought, I think Ken would have stayed."

Dimitri shook his head. "That's not fair, I didn't tell him to quit."

"But he did. I lost a good employee because of you. I don't want to know what personal reasons led to your epic lover's spat." Talin tapped his watch. "Five minutes are over."

"No they're not," Dimitri said.

"Yes, they are. I have a busy day starting in less than five hours. I don't have time to chitchat with you, Dimitri."

Dimitri sighed and pushed off the counter. Talin watched him take the glass he'd used to the sink and rinse it.

"Will you call me if you see Ken?" Dimitri asked when he placed the glass on the drying rack.

Talin frowned. "Do you miss him that much?"

Dimitri shrugged. "I have something to ask him."

"I doubt he'll call me, but fine."

Dimitri got a card from his pocket and placed it on the kitchen table.

Pale blue eyes met Talin's with a mischievous smile.

"You can call me for other reasons too."

"Why would I do that?"

"You never know," Dimitri said patting the bag of oranges on the table. "Maybe you'll want a fresh bag of oranges from me."

Talin pointed to his kitchen door. "Would you mind leaving?"

"Actually yes," Dimitri said as he walked around the table.

Talin froze and curbed the urge to step away when Dimitri invaded his personal space.

"You should get some rest. You look tired, Talin."

Talin met blue eyes and was surprised when his heartbeat soared. Dimitri's eyes seemed to see right inside him.

He looked away.

"Go home, Dimitri. I'm sure there's a twink waiting for you to seduce."

Dimitri laughed, the sound of it rumbling.

"Goodness you have such a low opinion of me. I have to change that at once. Sleep well, Talin."

Talin held still as Dimitri touched his jaw, a soft touch of fingers to his skin. Dimitri sighed and left his loft without another word.

Talin stared at the oranges in a black paper bag on the kitchen table and the fresh orange juice in his favorite glass jug. He got a glass from the cupboard and poured himself some juice. Staring at the half-full jug, he took a small tiny sip.

Talin couldn't help the scowl as he added more juice into his glass.

Freaking Dimitri Sedlackov made the best fresh orange juice on the planet.

***

Talin woke up at ten-thirty the next morning. One glance at the clock had him jumping out of bed and rushing to the shower. He took a quick one, toweled off in a hurry and dressed in the closest t-shirt and jeans he could find.

The morning hours were busy. He and Lori received deliveries from two trucks that came in following one another. After he'd helped Lori arrange their new stock in the club, he decided to head to the bank.

"Do you need anything?" Talin asked Lori as he wore a leather jacket he'd gotten from his office.

"Get me strawberry pop tarts," Lori said as she wiped the counter clean. "I'm starving."

Talin nodded, remembering he needed to shop for groceries too. He left Lori with a short wave and hurried out to the parking lot. His black Dodge Charger was parked right by the club entrance. He drove out of his parking lot fast happy the weather was warming up this morning.

He drove too fast and managed to reach the bank in ten minutes. Grabbing the black bag he used for deposits, he went into the quiet bank with a sigh. The best thing about this was having business priority. He hated waiting in lines. Still, there were two people waiting for service on his aisle. Reaching into his pocket, he searched for a stick of gum, and frowned when he came up empty.

_Shit,_ he really needed to go to a supermarket.

One of the people waiting on the aisle moved up to the counter. Talin took a step forward, and happened to turn to his left. The next aisle had a long line, and one of the men was reading a newspaper. Talin's gaze fell on the picture on the back page and he frowned when he recognized the face smiling back at him. The accompanying headline made his blood run cold.

***

**2**

Dimitri tightened the last screw on the water pump he was fixing. Grabbing a cloth from the edge of the table, he wiped oil from the surface of the pump and nodded in satisfaction. Placing the screwdriver in his toolbox, he used the cloth to wipe his hands and was thinking of heading for a shower when his workshop door flew open.

Talin Sato stormed in looking like an avenging angel. Brown eyes bright with anger, that handsome face flushed, Talin looked on the edge.

Dimitri bit back the smile when Talin threw a newspaper at him.

"Did you do it?" Talin demanded, his slightly accented voice sounding sexy in anger.

Dimitri wasn't surprised when his jeans got too tight, he was hard, the urge to pull Talin into his arms and kiss him senseless overwhelming. Fighting his needs back, Dimitri dropped his gaze to the paper that had fallen at his feet.

He knew what Talin was asking. Bending down to pick the paper, he folded it nicely without glancing at the back page and placed the paper on the worktable.

"What are you asking me, Talin?" Dimitri asked looking at the man he'd spent months watching and wishing for.

Talin tended to have a one-track mind. He paid attention to his club, his customers, but not to potential boyfriends. Dimitri's friends had taken to making fun of him whenever Talin walked into the main club. While Dimitri spend time watching Talin, Talin never once looked his way, always too involved with wiping tables, talking up customers. It was frustrating.

"Did you kill the kid from last night?" Talin demanded.

_Yep,_ that accusation hurt more than he'd imagined.

He turned away from Talin.

"Is that what brought you to my marina, Talin?"

"Did you do it?" Talin demanded, his words stabbing Dimitri deep inside.

He could take accusations from anyone else, but not Talin.

Throwing the cloth he held on the worktable, he turned to face Talin.

"Is that what you think of me?" Dimitri asked studying Talin.

Talin scowled.

"Your men were wrestling Jon in my parking lot. Seven hours later he turns up dead. What am I supposed to think?"

"I didn't kill him," Dimitri said meeting Talin's brown gaze. When Talin kept staring at him, he said again, "I did not kill Jon. Do you believe me?"

For a moment, Talin's brown gaze was suspicious. A tight knot of dread built in Dimitri's chest at the thought of Talin thinking him a murderer. Dimitri wished he hadn't gotten in this mess in the first place.

Talin's gaze softened.

"I believe you."

Dimitri felt the awful knot in his chest dissipate.

Talin rubbed his forehead with his left hand. He looked tired. There were dark circles under his eyes. Talin's silky black hair looked uncombed. It was held in a very loose braid. Dimitri wanted to tug those soft strands out of the messy hold and watch them fall around Talin's face.

"Did you sleep?" Dimitri asked, worried his early morning visit might have contributed to Talin's tired look.

Talin scowled at him.

"What do you care? Jeez, I'm sure the police will show up at the club asking questions. What am I supposed to tell them?"

"The truth," Dimitri said leaning on the worktable. He folded his arms against his chest to keep them from touching Talin.

"Are you insane?" Talin glared at him. "I can't tell them you were fighting with Jon in my parking lot. They'll jump to the same conclusions I did, Dimitri. Do you want to be arrested for murder?"

The concern in Talin's voice warmed him deep inside, Dimitri couldn't help but smile.

"Are you worried about me?"

"I'm not worried, I'm—," Talin broke off. "I don't know what I am. I just wanted to confirm that you didn't murder Jon on his way home."

Dimitri nodded.

"Do you know who he is? Did you read the full article?"

Talin frowned.

"No, all I saw was that he was found dead in his car a few miles away from his house. I didn't read the rest. I got in my car and drove here. I didn't realize I knew the way."

"Imagine my shock," Dimitri mused. "I'm hurt that a murder brought you here. I had hoped you'd come looking for me for other pleasant reasons."

Talin blinked. "Why would I come looking for you?"

Dimitri closed his eyes and touched his chest in mock shock.

"You wound me, Talin. Since you're here, would you like something to eat?"

"No." Talin looked around the workshop as though seeing it for the first time. "I have to go. I left Lori alone. What are you doing in here anyway? Shouldn't you be at the front office catering to customers or something?"

Dimitri didn't want Talin to leave yet, so he pushed off the worktable and took Talin's right hand. His fingers wrapped around Talin's wrist, holding tight, but without pressure.

"Hey, let go," Talin protested as Dimitri led him to a side door.

Outside, Dimitri was glad for the warm weather. The sun was shining in celebration today. He smiled, happy that Talin Sato had found his way to him.

_This was momentous._

"I can't let you leave without eating. You look like you're going to fall on your face. Remember, I saw your kitchen. I'm pretty sure you haven't gone grocery shopping yet."

Talin muttered a few words under his breath, probably curses.

Dimitri ignored them and led the way up a short path to the main house behind his workshop. The great white washed house he called home was built by his grandfather for his grandmother. It had seen numerous changes through the years, some good, others bad, but Dimitri loved it all the same.

He used the kitchen entrance and was glad to find his brother's wife removing fresh cookies from the oven. The delicious scent of butterscotch filled the room. He knew Talin wouldn't be able to resist.

As if on cue, Talin stopped tugging his arm.

"Dimitri," Katerina said when she saw them. "You have brought a guest."

"This is Talin Sato," he said pushing Talin to sit at the large kitchen table. "Talin, this is my sister-in-law, Katerina. She's the best chef in the world."

"Nice to meet you, Katerina," Talin said. "I'm sorry for barging in like this. Dimitri sort of dragged me in here."

"Please call me, Kat. Dimitri is over excited," Katerina said with a welcoming smile. "I'm glad to meet you, all I ever hear about is Talin this, Talin that, good to finally put a face to the name."

Talin gaped and turned to Dimitri.

Dimitri cleared his throat with a scowl for Katerina and went to get the coffee. Katerina and her big mouth...he bit back a groan and got two coffee mugs.

"So, you hear a lot about me?" Talin asked Katerina who had brought him a butterscotch cookie to taste. Dimitri turned in time to see Talin bite the cookie, and give an appreciative moan. "Mmm...this is delicious, Kat."

Dimitri bit his lower lip as that moan did delicious things to him.

Katerina beamed and patted Talin's shoulder.

"I'll get you more."

"Tell me about these things you've heard about me," Talin said smiling at Katerina.

Dimitri looked away from them envy eating him up.

Why did Talin smile so invitingly with Katerina and only scowl with him?

"Dimitri, he worries for you," Katerina was saying. "Says you work 'til late in the night, sometimes to morning. Then you wake up early to handle more business matters. He says you need more staff at the Talon. I told him he worries too much, always wanting to fix everyone's problems."

Dimitri added sugar to Talin's coffee but skipped the milk. He took their mugs to the table and placed Talin's by the plate of cookies. Dimitri gave Katerina a warning glance and moved to take a seat across Talin.

Talin gave him a short speculative glance, and then reached for another cookie.

Katerina stood behind Talin and gave Dimitri thumbs up before she cleared her throat and removed her apron.

"I have to go check on my husband," she said.

When Dimitri frowned, Katerina continued.

"Lukas gets busy in the office and forgets to take breaks. He works close to home, yet I hardly see him. I'll go see how he's doing."

_What a lame excuse._

Dimitri shook his head. Katerina was running to tell Lukas about Talin.

"Thank you for the cookies," Talin told her with a happy grin.

Katerina nodded and left the kitchen quickly, but not without giving Dimitri an encouraging smile.

"These are really good," Talin said biting into his cookie. "Mmm...cooking must run in the family. I drank your juice. It was very good too."

Dimitri smiled.

"Secret family recipe," he said watching Talin devour the butterscotch cookies.

"What did Kat mean by you talk about me all the time?" Talin asked then. "I asked you yesterday if you have me followed—

"I hang out at the Talon a lot," Dimitri cut in. "It's easy to notice things when you see someone so much. Since Ken left, you've been working short handed. I don't know why you haven't bothered to get new people."

"I haven't gotten around to it," Talin said with a frown. "Why are you looking for Ken? Do you miss him that much?"

"Miss him?" Dimitri leaned his elbows on the table. "This is not the first time you've said this. Why do you think Ken was my lover?"

"Weren't you two dating?" Talin asked his brown eyes narrowed. "Isn't that why you fought?"

Dimitri couldn't help laughing.

"Ken Luther and me, dating?" he asked. "Talin, what would make you think such a thing?"

"I—

Talin stared at him.

"I thought—

Dimitri shook his head.

"No way," he said. "Ken and I weren't dating, have never dated."

"Then why did you fight?" Talin demanded. "I thought I lost a good manager because of your relationship."

"Goodness, you do walk around with your eyes closed." Dimitri sat back. "Are you telling me you thought I was dating Ken?"

"Well, yeah," Talin said sipping his coffee. He too sat back in his seat. "You were at the club all the time. You talked to Ken more than once when he was working for me."

"I was at the club watching you," Dimitri said amazed by this piece of information. No wonder Talin hadn't given him the time of day, he was too busy steering off another man's date. "I'm interested in _you_ , Talin."

"Me?" Talin put his coffee cup on the table. "But why?"

"I think you're sexy," Dimitri confessed.

Talin laughed. "You're delusional."

"Why?"

"Sexy?" Talin asked. "I wear stained t-shirts, and worn jeans. My hair is never combed, and I don't remember the last time I made an effort with it. You must not need very much for someone to appear sexy."

"It's part of your charm, Talin. I find everything about you sexy. From the fact that you helped a woman in an abusive relationship, to helping kids who drink too much by confiscating their car keys and getting them into cabs. You talk to everyone who comes into your club. People like you for your easygoing manner. Yet, you've never once stopped to chat with me, Talin. Why is that?"

"I—I didn't mean to avoid you."

"Yes, you did. You make sure my table's orders are filled. But, you give me a wide berth." Dimitri studied him for a moment. "Are you scared of me?"

Talin shrugged. "Maybe, your men aren't exactly friendly."

"They're good people," Dimitri said of the men who worked for the marina.

Each of them had their reasons for working in the marina. They were loyal. They also had orders to make sure Talin was safe, never to touch him. This is why they'd stepped aside when Talin intervened with Jon. But, he couldn't tell Talin that, it would probably get him another scowl.

Goodness, what did he have to do to get Talin smiling at him?

"Why were you fighting Jon yesterday?" Talin asked interrupting his thoughts.

"Do you really want to know the truth?" Dimitri asked.

"Yes."

"What do I get out of it?"

Talin rewarded him with a smile.

"Satisfaction that you've eased my mind."

"Come on," Dimitri reached for his coffee and took a small sip.

He studied Talin thinking he wanted to see Talin seated in this kitchen again.

"How about a deal," Dimitri said.

"What type of deal?"

"It's simple. I'll tell you anything you want about Jon and Ken. You agree to go on a date with me."

"What if I say no?"

"I'm kinda hoping you won't say no," Dimitri replied. "I've waited a long time to ask you out, Talin."

Talin sat still, those brown eyes studying Dimitri.

Dimitri wondered what Talin saw. He hoped Talin saw a man who sincerely wanted a chance. He didn't realize he was holding his breath until Talin spoke.

"Just one date?"

Dimitri nodded, although he planned on changing Talin's mind. He wanted more than one date.

"Sure, why not," Talin said.

Dimitri grinned.

"Great, I'll pick you up tomorrow at seven, dress casual."

"Now, about Jon," Talin prompted.

"What about Jon?"

"Dimitri."

Dimitri grinned, excited at the prospect of spending an evening with Talin.

"Jon is Caleb Barnes's nephew."

Talin frowned.

Dimitri pushed his coffee away.

"Jon helped his uncle with drug distribution. He's shown up at your club several times looking for Ken Luther."

"Why is he looking for Ken?" Talin asked. "You say Jon was selling drugs...do you mean Ken too?"

"Yes," Dimitri said with a dark scowl. "A year ago, I caught Ken selling drugs to high school kids who were going on a boat ride on our charter boats. I warned Ken to stay away from the marina, but one of my men recognized him. Told me he'd seen him working at the Talon. That's how we started coming over to your club. We wanted to check Ken out. At first, I wasn't sure he was selling but we caught him one night at the bathrooms. We flushed his stock, and warned him to stop. Ken didn't like it. Our encounters accelerated to that fight you saw."

"Oh gods," Talin pushed his coffee away too. "All this time, I thought—, why didn't you tell me?" Talin shook his head. "So, you're not working with Caleb Barnes?"

"I'm not. Barnes tried to approach my brother and me," Dimitri said. "But, we refused his business. Barnes wasn't happy. It's a tough job already to keep things clean because we have no control over what people are doing on their boats. Can you imagine adding on Barnes's racket?"

"The night before the police arrested Barnes, his men brought in a boat into our marina. It was late, so Lukas didn't pay attention. He thought he'd deal with it in the morning. The police came first. Lukas let them onto the docked boat, and the next thing we knew we were under suspicion. The police thought we knew what was going on. It didn't help that Barnes' men had stashed cocaine in the boat. We ended up at the police station. It took time before the cops cleared us. Local press saw me leaving the police station and that's how the rumors started."

"Unbelievable," Talin frowned. "The press should have asked you what you were doing at the station before they jumped to conclusions."

Talin's annoyance toward the press on his behalf warmed him.

"Does that clear your questions on Jon and Ken?"

Talin met his gaze.

"Almost, you should have told me about Ken. If he was selling drugs, who knows what else he was selling under the table."

Dimitri reached for a cookie from the plate between them and took a healthy bite. The sweet taste of butterscotch filled his mouth.

"You still haven't told me why you were hassling Jon last night."

"When I found out what Ken was doing, we decided to find out who was delivering the drugs to your club for him. I didn't discover who it was until Ken left. Jon appeared at the Talon two days after Ken quit. When Jon couldn't find Ken, he tried to recruit some of your waiters. We discouraged him."

"All those times I found your men harassing people in my club," Talin mused. "You could have told me what was going on."

"Yeah well," Dimitri shrugged. "It was safer for you not to know. I didn't want the rumor mongers to include you and your club."

"What happened last night?"

"Jon was on edge. He wasn't looking for a dealer, he was selling." Dimitri rubbed his fingers together to get rid of crumbs. He sipped his coffee with a speculative gaze. "I was going to ask Jon why he was back when you showed up."

"What was I supposed to do?" Talin asked. "You guys were assaulting a kid in my parking lot."

"Your defense wasn't wrong." Dimitri assured with a smile. "I love seeing you get all protective. It's a sight to see."

Talin stared at him then he burst out laughing.

Talin's laugh was infectious it had Dimitri smiling.

"Why are you laughing?" Dimitri asked when Talin wouldn't stop.

Talin wiped his eyes.

"I feel like an idiot. This whole time, I thought you and Ken dated. I figured kids his age were your type, not thirty year olds married to their business. That you were watching me the same way I was you...well, it's kinda pathetic."

"Why pathetic?" Dimitri asked.

"You know, I'm not sure. It just is." Talin glanced at his watch and sighed. "I've stayed too long. I should get going."

Talin pushed his chair back and got up stretching his arms above his head.

"You can't leave yet." Dimitri stood too. "Why so soon? The club doesn't open 'til later."

"It's almost three o'clock," Talin said. "I need to do grocery shopping, as you've pointed out to me. I promised to get Lori food; she must think I abandoned her. Wait...can I take some of these cookies for her?"

"Is she your girlfriend?" Dimitri asked half-afraid of Talin's answer.

The question was irrational. He was sure Talin was gay. But, he'd seen how Talin cared for Lori. It would be wrong to interfere in their relationship if they had one.

"No!" Talin said staring at him in surprise. "I mean, she's like a small sister to me."

Relief flooded Dimitri.

Happy, Dimitri went to the counter where Katerina had left the cookies on a tray covered with a white cloth. Dimitri found a container from the cupboard above, and put six cookies into a sealable plastic container.

Dimitri turned to find Talin standing in the middle of the kitchen looking around the warm room with longing. He took advantage of Talin's distracted mood to study him. Talin looked good in his blue faded jeans and t-shirt. The heavy black boots Talin wore added his height but not that much. He couldn't be anymore than five foot eight. Talin's Asian heritage gave him slanted eyes, like a cat, they added character to Talin's oval face.

Dimitri closed the distance between them, wanting to feel Talin's black silky hair. He'd dreamed of touching it so many times.

Talin gasped when he turned to find Dimitri so close.

The sound drew Dimitri's gaze to Talin's parted lips. Dimitri touched Talin's jaw, running his right thumb over Talin's clean-shaven jaw. He stepped closer, his gaze on Talin's lips. They looked soft; he wondered what they'd taste like. Talin took in a deep breath and Dimitri met tumultuous brown eyes.

He slid his fingers along Talin's jaw to the back of his neck. Talin tipped his head back and Dimitri lowered his head. Talin's eyes slid closed as Dimitri skimmed his lips over Talin's. The simple caress left them both breathless. Talin responded by stepping closer, his fingers bunching the front of Dimitri's black t-shirt. Dimitri dropped the sealed container of cookies on the floor and grabbed on to Talin, pulling him into his arms.

Dimitri kissed Talin again, this time a full kiss, one that had them both clinging to each other. Talin moaned; the sound of it had Dimitri hard and aching for more. He couldn't get enough of Talin's taste.

_Butterscotch, coffee and Talin, addictive,_ Dimitri thought.

When they broke apart, Talin buried his face into Dimitri's shoulder, his breath coming faster.

Dimitri held Talin, his world shifting, the axis completely changing. He brought his right hand up to Talin's messy braid. His fingers made short work of it. The silky strands sifted through his fingers. He buried his face in Talin's hair taking in Talin's scent mixed in with vanilla, a heady scent that added to his raging hard-on. Dimitri took in a deep breath, holding Talin closer, afraid if he didn't memorize the feel of him, he wouldn't survive when Talin left.

The kitchen door opened breaking the spell and Talin tried to step back.

Dimitri held on to Talin, not letting him escape. He looked up to find Katerina and Lukas standing by the door, staring at them in surprise. Dimitri ignored them and instead pressed a soft kiss on Talin's jaw, before he bent down and picked up the container of cookies.

"This is for Lori," Dimitri said, pressing the container into Talin's right hand. "Remember our date tomorrow, Talin."

Talin nodded not meeting his gaze.

"I have to go now."

Dimitri let go of Talin reluctantly.

"Drive safe."

Talin looked at him with a small smile before he turned. Color flooded his face when he saw Katerina and Lukas.

"Talin, are you leaving us already?" Katerina asked, taking charge when Talin froze. "I was hoping you'd stay for a late lunch. I just managed to convince Lukas to come in."

"I have to get to the club," Talin said. "I asked Dimitri to give me some of your cookies. I hope you don't mind. They're very good—

"I'm glad," Katerina moved to hug him. "I hope we see you again, Talin."

Talin accepted her hug. When she stepped back, Lukas moved in next. Dimitri watched a surprised Talin get pulled into a tight hug by his younger brother.

When Lukas let go, Talin hurried out of the kitchen.

Dimitri smiled as the kitchen door slammed closed.

"That was my Talin," Dimitri told Lukas with a blinding grin.

"I'm not sure he's quite yours yet. I think you frightened him away," Lukas said.

Dimitri shrugged. "He'll come around."

"Why did he come?" Katerina asked urging her husband to the kitchen table.

Dimitri watched her take his and Talin's mug to the sink. He sat in Talin's chair while Lukas chose one across him.

"He found out about Jon," Dimitri said meeting Lukas's gaze. "Talin thought I'd killed him."

"Why would he think that?"

Dimitri scratched his jaw with a small sigh.

"He found Tomas, Sean and I talking to Jon in the parking lot at the Talon."

"Talking?" Kat scoffed bringing Lukas a cup of coffee. "Tomas and Sean aren't gentle when you want something, Dimitri."

Dimitri winced. "I wanted to know what Jon was doing back at the Talon."

"Is this connected to Ken Luther?" Lukas asked.

"Ken knows too much," Dimitri said. "I've done all I can to keep his name out of Barnes' investigation, but—

"With Jon dead, that's going to change," Lukas finished for him. "Does Talin know where Ken is?"

"No." Dimitri got up. "I'm glad for it. Talin doesn't need to get involved."

"Hiding the truth won't help Talin," Katerina said as she cracked eggs into a sizzling pan. "If you want Talin, you have to trust him."

"I have to get him to trust me first," Dimitri said.

"He won't thank you for this," Katerina said looking at him. "Maybe it's better if you don't pursue him."

Dimitri wished he could stop. He'd tried to stay away, but Talin was...an addiction. Everything about Talin made Dimitri want to get closer, want to touch, and want to kiss. He wanted to know what made Talin so closed off, so tightly held together. He wanted to know what it would take to break that barrier Talin had so high around him. He'd done his best to keep his distance, but that kiss...

"I can't walk away," Dimitri said.

"Dimitri, you—," Katerina said.

"Enough, Katerina," Lukas cut her off.

Dimitri gave her an apologetic look before he turned to Lukas.

"I'm going for a shower, and then I'll take the Anastasia out. We have a shipment coming in tonight. I have to make sure everything is ready."

Lukas nodded in understanding. Dimitri knew his brother would never argue with him about Talin. They'd been through too much. Dimitri left the kitchen to head upstairs to his bedroom. He'd call Talin later, make sure he was okay. Talin would probably start over thinking their kiss.

He smiled, touching his lips.

Gods, Katerina's concern was his too, but he couldn't stay away from Talin now. He wanted more.

***

**3**

Talin leaned on the bar counter, his gaze roaming the crowd of people in his club. It was only six o'clock, but customers were filing in.

"Looking for Dimitri?" Lori asked coming up to the counter with a tray. She called out an order to the bartender, and then returned her attention to him. "It's too early for him, you know."

"I wasn't looking for him." Talin straightened and made a show of arranging the papers he'd printed out in his office. "I need to put these up."

Lori took one and grinned.

"We're finally hiring."

"Don't smile that hard." Talin sighed. "It's not easy getting the right person. We might hire idiots who'll quit on their second day."

"Stay positive, boss," Lori said as she took her order from the bartender. "Don't worry; I'll do the interviews with you. You just get them in here."

Talin took the papers and went to post them at the entrance. He pinned one on the messy notice board at the entrance. It was full of adverts: calls for band members, for sale posters. He adjusted a few to make space for his own.

"About time, boss," one of the doormen said behind him.

Talin turned to find Steve, a tall ex-military man, standing a few feet away. He'd hired Steve because he had the strength and wits to control unruly customers without mishandling them. Steve was in-charge of the Talon's security.

Remembering Dimitri's story about Ken Luther, Talin motioned for Steve to follow him outside. Talin stepped out into the cool evening, Steve right behind him.

"What's going on boss?" Steve asked.

Getting tape from his pocket, Talin stuck the hiring notice on the door.

"Did you know that Ken was selling drugs?" Talin asked Steve.

"No."

Talin smoothed his hand over the notice and turned to study Steve in the fading sunlight.

"Are you sure?" Talin asked.

"You know me, boss. I'd never have let him stay had I known. I'd have told you the moment I caught him."

Talin frowned. Steve had worked for him longer than Ken. The man had good work ethics, but still...Ken's story made him uneasy. Talin's frown deepened. He'd thought he knew Ken well. If it weren't for Dimitri, he'd never have known what Ken did.

"I need you to do me a favor."

"Anything, boss," Steve said.

"If you see Ken around here, let me know immediately."

"Boss, what's going on?" Steve asked a frown dancing on his forehead.

Talin shook his head. "Just watch out for Ken Luther, Steve. I don't want him in my club."

Steve studied him for a moment then nodded. "Consider it done, boss."

Talin gave Steve a small smile. "Thanks, Steve. You can get back to work."

"Aren't you coming in?" Steve asked as he turned to head back to the club.

"In a few minutes," Talin said, holding out the tape. "Give this to Lori."

Steve took the tape, then turned and went into the club.

Talin let out a soft sigh as he walked to the front steps of the club. The parking lot was already filling with cars. He nodded at a couple who walked up the steps heading to the entrance. A cool wind swept in and he pulled his leather jacket closed, tugging the zipper up to his neck.

His gaze strayed to the busy road beyond the parking lot. Vine Street. Down his left, the street continued on to the Colston downtown area. To his right, Vine Street went on to connect to Lakeshore Boulevard. The properties on that road were right by the lake. Having the lake so close, affected the weather conditions most times. It was mid-September and the nights were getting cool.

Talin shivered, missing the heat of summer. It was interesting how he'd ended up settling in another cold region. He'd been born in New York, gone through school and college there too. Those days, no one would have believed Talin Sato would end up living in a small town in Ohio. Painful nostalgia started to flood in, and he squelched those memories ruthlessly, deciding to focus on the now.

He lived in the present, the next minute, and the next hour. It was better this way.

"Talin," Dimitri's voice cut through his thoughts.

He looked up to find Dimitri standing a few feet away. The kiss in Dimitri's kitchen filled his thoughts.

"What are you doing out here? You're going to catch a cold," Dimitri said coming up to stand in front of him. "Or were you waiting for me?"

"No," Talin said shaking his head, though he knew he'd been waiting.

Dimitri nodded.

"I wasn't going to come."

Dimitri stepped closer and kissed Talin's jaw.

Dimitri's scent flooded him, an intoxicating mixture of the sea, spice, warmth and home. Talin pressed his forehead on Dimitri's shoulder.

"Why did you come then?" Talin asked.

"I wanted to see you," Dimitri said sinking fingers into Talin's hair. "I figured a call wasn't going to be enough."

Talin let a sigh escape when Dimitri wrapped his arms around him. It was strange how safe he felt in Dimitri's arms. The night before he'd been afraid of Dimitri, now...he wanted to get as close as he could.

"I can't stay tonight." Dimitri buried his face in Talin's hair.

Talin closed his eyes and clutched Dimitri's black t-shirt.

"Where are you going?"

"Business," Dimitri said rubbing his hand over Talin's back. "I can't cancel; otherwise I would stay with you. I couldn't wait for tomorrow night to see you."

Talin lifted his head to look at Dimitri in the fading sunlight.

"Will you go inside when I leave?" Dimitri asked his pale blue eyes filled with concern.

Talin nodded, thinking it strange having someone worry about him. That the person doing the worrying was Dimitri was even stranger.

Dimitri grinned, a sexy curve of his lips, showing off perfect teeth.

"Will you kiss me goodnight?"

Talin chuckled.

"Is that what you came here for?"

"Yes, and for your good luck to rub off on me."

"Do you need good luck?" Talin asked with a frown. "What type of business are you going to do, Dimitri?"

Dimitri pressed a kiss on Talin's forehead. "It's nothing to worry about."

"Are you sure?" Talin asked studying Dimitri's face.

Talin wished he knew Dimitri better so he could tell what the older man was thinking. Dimitri's pale blue eyes were hard to read.

"I'm sure," Dimitri said with a slight smile. "Kiss me?"

Talin dropped his gaze to Dimitri's lips. He'd thought about them all afternoon. Through his grocery shopping trip, when he came back to the club...he slid his arms around Dimitri's neck. That kiss in Dimitri's kitchen, he couldn't get it out of his head. He tugged Dimitri's head lower, and brushed a teasing kiss on Dimitri's lips.

He met Dimitri's gaze and smiled.

"Tease," Dimitri accused his gaze laughing.

Talin grinned, leaning against Dimitri. Slipping his fingers into Dimitri's soft hair, he pressed his lips more firmly on Dimitri's lips. This time he was ready for the shattering need that flooded him when their lips met. Dimitri's arms tightened around him, crushing him close. When they broke apart, he touched the corner of Dimitri's lips.

"Better?" he asked, his voice rough with need.

"Not sure," Dimitri said, then grinned when Talin glared at him. "I mean you're making me want to cancel my appointment and stay here with you."

"Why don't you?"

"Because...that's bad business," Dimitri said. "I'll call you tomorrow. Try and get some sleep."

"You too," Talin said.

Dimitri nodded and let go of him reluctantly.

"Be safe," Talin felt compelled to say as Dimitri turned away.

Dimitri hurried to a black Mazda. Talin watched him enter the car, a second later, the engine started and Dimitri flashed the headlights at him. He watched the Mazda drive out of the parking lot, with a sense of apprehension.

Dimitri was slipping into the cracks forming in the wall around him and he didn't know how to stop him. He didn't even know if he wanted to stop it.

Shaking his head, Talin turned and headed into the club.

***

"You're late," Tomas complained when Dimitri got on the _Anastasia._

It was almost nine o'clock at night. Dimitri had spent the past two hours making sure no one followed him to the marina.

Dimitri zipped up his heavy black jacket and ignored Tomas's irritated gaze.

"We'll make it on time." Dimitri told Sean who was at the helm.

"Did you go see _him_?" Tomas asked his feet braced as the boat started moving.

"What is the problem, Tomas?" Dimitri asked moving to stand beside Sean.

"You're taking risks, Dimitri." Tomas said.

"I can't help it," Dimitri said. "Let it go. Concentrate on the job tonight. We can't afford screw-ups."

Tomas grumbled under his breath and moved to grab a pair of binoculars hanging on the wall.

"Now that the bickering is over," Sean said with a grin. "How much longer do we have to peddle these shipments?"

"Until we get what we're looking for," Dimitri said as Sean increased speed heading to the middle of Lake Erie.

Night was thick, blanketing the lake like a dark cloak. Sean turned off the lights, navigating the lake on months of experience. They'd run the same route for four years, taking precautions not to alert the coast guard to their presence. They'd gotten very good at it.

Dimitri crossed his arms against his chest as Sean brought the boat to a stop at the rendezvous point. When Sean turned off the engine, Dimitri left Sean at the helm and went out to the main deck with Tomas.

They didn't wait long before a light flashed a few feet away.

"Here we go," Tomas said pressing a gun into his hands.

Dimitri slipped it into the small of his back. Taking a flashlight from his pocket, he answered the other boat with two flashes.

The cargo exchange took minutes. No one wanted the process to take long, so both crews worked swiftly, no talking. Dimitri and Tomas received crates from the other boat, while Sean kept a look out.

Twenty minutes later, Dimitri stood at the helm driving the boat back to the marina, while Sean and Tomas tended to the crates. He drove fast, and once they reached the marina, he docked at the most secluded part of the property. Turning off the engine, Dimitri, Sean and Tomas secured the boat. They took the crates into an old warehouse Dimitri's grandfather had used decades ago to store fishing equipment. It stood near the edge of the marina hidden in the trees.

With the crates secured in the warehouse, Sean locked the doors and they surrounded one crate.

Dimitri used a crowbar to open the sealed crate cover.

Sean and Tomas removed the cover to reveal plastic elbow joints in the crate.

Dimitri picked one and studied it.

"Hmm... good quality," he said with a small smile.

Tomas chuckled as Dimitri chucked it to the ground. Together they emptied the crate of the elbow joints until they found the bottom. Dimitri patiently removed the false bottom and placed the plywood on the floor. Carefully arranged on the bottom of the crate were two hundred neat bundles of freshly minted hundred-dollar bills.

Dimitri removed one bundle, ripping the plastic used to protect the money in transportation. He checked the serial numbers on the money and let out a sigh.

"Are they good?" Tomas asked moving to stand beside him.

"Yeah," he said with a grim nod.

Sean nodded. "Looks like we're in business."

Dimitri dropped the bundle into the crate, his gaze on the twenty-five crates around them. They tallied to fifty million dollars in counterfeit hundred-dollar bills.

"Looks like we are," Dimitri said with a heavy sigh.

***

"Can I eat them?" Lori asked Talin as she put mangoes in a fruit bowl on the table in his loft.

They'd closed the club for the night, and she was helping unpack his groceries. Talin ignored her and instead stuck pop tarts into the toaster for her. He'd forgotten to give them to her earlier.

Lori laughed. "I see you're going to be stingy. Did Dimitri bake them?"

Talin picked up the container Dimitri had pressed into his hands. He might have gotten the cookies for Lori, but he didn't want to give them up yet.

"His sister-in-law, Katerina," Talin answered. "They sound like they're from those old movies. Katerina, Lukas, Dimitri..."

"It happens in old families," Lori said pulling out a chair at the kitchen table. She sat down with a small yawn. "So, I was right."

"About what?" Talin asked.

"Dimitri likes you."

Heat flooded his face. Talin rubbed his jaw with his right hand. Lori grinned and he couldn't fight the growing blush.

Dimitri's kisses filled his thoughts, flaming kisses that ignited every cell in his body. Dimitri's arms around him, so tight, so warm, he'd wanted more, wanted it even now.

The pop tarts popped startling him.

He placed the container of cookies on the counter and got a plate for Lori.

"Why did you go to the marina earlier?" Lori asked as she took the plate of pop tarts.

"A flash of madness," he answered refusing to tell her about Jon.

The less people knew about Dimitri and Jon's altercation in the parking lot the better. He was expecting police to come asking questions. He didn't want Lori involved.

Lori smiled and bit into the warm strawberry pop tarts.

"I've been craving these, thanks for bringing them. Did you agree to go out with Dimitri?"

Talin nodded.

"One date, although I'm not so sure how it will work out. I guess I can come help you out later."

"Please don't talk about a date and helping out at the same time," Lori said shaking her head.

"What do you mean?"

"I don't remember the last time you took the night off," Lori said with a sigh. "The Talon won't crash if you're not working one night, Talin."

"Hey," Talin frowned. "That's—

Lori stood taking her second pop tart. "If you have a date, I think you should take the night off."

"What about—

"Don't worry about anything. I'll handle all the problems," Lori insisted shaking her head. "Since your date is tonight, you are banned from the Talon until tomorrow night. Please get laid."

She left his kitchen without another word.

"Wench," he called after her.

"You know you love me."

He chuckled and returned his gaze to the cookies in the container. Maybe it wouldn't hurt to let go of the club for one night. Remembering the kiss in the parking lot, Talin touched his lips with a sigh. He wasn't sure one night was going to be enough with Dimitri.

***

Talin woke up with a headache hours later. Sipping coffee from the largest mug he owned, he sat at his desk staring at the Talon's expenses on his screen hoping to make sense of them.

A loud knock on his front door had him wincing. It was only eleven o'clock in the morning. He wasn't expecting any deliveries today. Lori had a key, and she'd never knocked on his door. He sighed and wondered if the person would go away if he ignored the knock.

The knocking persisted.

Letting a sigh escape, he put his mug on his desk and went to open the door.

The sun was shining again. Talin doubted the man standing at his door had a clue. He was dressed in a stifling grey suit.

"How can I help you?"

"Talin Sato?" The man asked his tone polite.

"Yes."

The man held up a badge.

"Detective James Oman, Colston PD, do you mind if I ask you a few questions?"

Talin reminded his trembling heart that he'd been expecting this. Pushing the door open, he stepped back to allow the detective into his loft.

"Sure, come on in," Talin said.

"Thank you."

Talin closed the door and stood leaning on it. He hadn't thought the police would come so soon.

"Do you live alone?" Detective James asked, looking around Talin's living room.

"Yes, I live alone. Would you like something to drink?" Talin asked pushing off the door. "I have coffee, juice, milk...uh...water?"

"Coffee sounds good," Detective James said.

"Make yourself comfortable," Talin said pointing to the couches in his living room. "I'll go get the coffee."

"Thank you, two sugars, and no milk please," Detective James said.

Talin went to the kitchen, looking back once to see the detective choose his favorite couch. In the kitchen, Talin took in a deep breath and reminded his crazy erratic heartbeat there was no reason to worry. He didn't have anything to hide.

Minutes later, Talin sat in an armchair watching the detective drink his coffee. Detective James held a notebook in his left hand with a black pen tucked between the pages.

"What brings you to my door, Detective James?" Talin asked.

"Do you know this man?" Detective James held up Jon's picture.

"I've seen him around the club."

"Have you talked to him?"

"No. A lot of people come into the Talon, detective. I don't get to talk to all of them."

"His name is Jonathan Barnes. His neighbor found him shot dead in his car a few meters away from his house."

Detective James reached for his coffee mug and took a leisurely sip.

"Jon's friends say he came to the Talon that night."

"Like I said, I've seen him around the club. Do you know who killed him? Why he was killed?"

"We're still looking into it. Do you own the Talon, Mr. Sato?"

Talin frowned.

"Yes."

"Free and clear, or are you paying a mortgage?"

"I own the club free and clear," Talin said with a smile. "The previous owner was generous and we reached a fair agreement."

"How were you able to afford the club?"

"I had money left to me by family."

"And where is your family?"

"Am I under suspicion?" Talin asked, wondering what his personal life had to do with Jonathan Barnes.

"Of course not, Mr. Sato," Detective James said. "I'm trying to establish your background. Are you from Japan? When did you move to Colston, Ohio?"

"Detective James, my parents are second-generation Americans. I was born in New York. I lived in Manhattan until I moved to Colston four years ago."

"Why did you move?"

"Change of environment," Talin said refusing to think about his past. "What does that have to do with your case?"

"Did you know Jon was dealing drugs in your club?"

Talin sat back in his armchair.

"No, I didn't know that."

"Do you have surveillance in your club?"

"The cameras are installed, but they haven't worked in a long time. I've never seen a reason to have them working."

Talin shook his head thinking his clientele wouldn't be too happy about surveillance. On hindsight, he probably should have them working now, considering the news about Ken and Jon selling drugs in his club.

"Do you know Ken Luther?"

"Yes. He worked for me until six months ago. He left the job without an explanation."

"Have you seen him since?"

"No."

Detective James studied him for a moment.

Talin watched him reach into the inside pocket of his suit jacket.

Detective James removed a picture and held it out to Talin.

"Do you know him?" Detective James asked.

Talin dropped his gaze to the picture and gasped when he recognized Dimitri. In the picture, he was dressed in a tailored black suit, dark glasses covering his gorgeous eyes. His mink black hair combed back neatly. Dimitri was walking down steps followed by three men, all in suits. This Dimitri was different from the one he knew. Dimitri looked...menacing.

"Dimitri Sedlackov," Talin said, handing back the photograph. "He comes to the club once in a while."

"Do you also know that he's the head of the Russian gang in Colston?"

Talin laughed.

"This is not funny, Mr. Sato."

Talin shook his head.

"Forgive me, Detective James. Do you think the head of a Russian gang would hang out at my club as frequently as Dimitri Sedlackov does? You guys would have picked him up by now."

"Your club attracts the right crowd. It is the perfect place for Dimitri to run his business."

"That sounds a tad insane," Talin said, his amusement vanishing. The detective looked too serious for his liking. "There is no way Dimitri is a gang leader."

"He's something," Detective James said. "Did you happen to see him with Jon night before last?"

"No."

"Hmm..." Detective James said reaching for his coffee. He took a healthy sip then placed the mug on the table. He got a card from his notebook and placed it beside the mug. "If you remember anything else from that night, I'd like you to call me."

"Anything else like what?" Talin asked.

"Anything to do with Jon and Dimitri," Detective James said as he got up. "Someone might have seen them talking, fighting, anything. I'm hoping to find out who murdered Jonathan Barnes and possibly Ken Luther."

Talin stared at the detective in shock.

"You think Ken Luther is dead?"

Detective James shrugged. "No one can find him. He hasn't shown up at home, in college or at his parents' house in months. He might have skipped town, but there is no indication. I have to assume his dead."

Talin schooled his features.

"Well, I'm sorry I wasn't of help."

"Oh, but you were quite helpful," Detective James said. "Thank you for the coffee."

Talin got up and rubbed his arms as he watched the detective leave. The moment the door closed, he went into the kitchen to find the card Dimitri had given him.

He'd dumped it in the oranges vowing never to call the man.

Talin got the oranges from the vegetable rack in his kitchen and found the card. Taking his cell phone from his pocket, he dialed Dimitri's cell number.

Dimitri answered on the first ring.

"Good morning, Talin," Dimitri said. "I was wondering when you'd call me."

"Are you heading a Russian Gang?" Talin demanded.

Dimitri's laugh was infectious.

Talin closed his eyes when delicious thrills rolled down his spine.

"This isn't funny," Talin said leaning on the kitchen counter.

"Talin, you surprise me every day," Dimitri said, his voice so warm and close, he could have been standing next to Talin. "Do _you_ think I'm heading a gang?"

"I don't know." Talin swept fingers through his messy hair and shook his head.

"You sound disturbed. Who is putting these thoughts in your head? Tell me, I'll deal with them."

"How would you deal with them?" Talin asked, imagining scenes from the goriest mob movie he'd watched.

"Talk to them, tell them the truth," Dimitri said gently.

Talin breathed out a sigh of relief.

"What is the truth, Dimitri?"

"That I'm not heading a Russian Gang, my dear. You do believe me, right?"

Talin scratched his jaw unsure of himself. Maybe it was the picture. That Dimitri in the picture could head a gang, or the mafia.

_Hell, who was he to judge? His own past was iffy on the grand scale of things._

"I believe you," he answered Dimitri.

"Who worried you this way?"

"I got a visit from a detective investigating Jon's murder. He had a picture of you in a suit, imagine my shock, didn't think you owned one. He called you a Russian gang leader."

"Talin," Dimitri said. "Don't go anywhere. I'm on the way."

"What?"

"I'm coming to your loft."

Dimitri ended the call, and Talin stood in the middle of his kitchen.

Talin breathed into his palm with a frown.

"I gotta brush my teeth."

Dropping his phone on the kitchen table, Talin ran to the bathroom.

***

Talin held his damp hair in a neat ponytail. He'd ended up taking a shower. He stepped out of his bedroom and walked down the corridor to the living room. The scent of fresh coffee had him detouring to the kitchen.

"You never left the key," he said, when he saw Dimitri checking out his stocked fridge.

"Morning to you too, Talin," Dimitri said retrieving a carton of milk.

Dimitri closed the fridge. His azure eyes sent heat sweeping through Talin when they lingered on him.

"Did you sleep well?" Dimitri asked going to the kitchen table.

He put milk in a bowl of wheaties, and Talin marveled at the sight of Dimitri eating cereal.

"I slept fine," Talin said going to the coffeemaker to get a fresh cup of coffee. The hot shower had taken away his headache. "And you?"

"Not at all," Dimitri shrugged. "I had a long night. I'm glad to see you though. Come sit with me."

Talin took his mug to the table, choosing a chair on Dimitri's right side.

"Didn't you get home last night after your business?" Talin asked noting that Dimitri was still in the clothes he'd worn last night.

"No. Tell me what the detective asked you?"

"A bunch of questions," Talin said leaning his elbows on the kitchen table.

Talin summarized his conversation with Detective James. Dimitri listened with a passive expression, eating his cereal.

"For a moment there, I thought he was suspecting me of something. I suppose he was doing his job, and I was freaking out. I didn't like the way he talked about you though."

Dimitri scowled. "What's his name?"

"Detective James Oman," Talin said. "Do you know him?"

Dimitri met his gaze with a wicked grin.

"Nope, I'm allergic to law enforcement."

"Comments like that are not helping, Dimitri."

"I'm sorry." Dimitri finished his cereal and sat back in his chair with a satisfied sigh. "Mm...I needed that."

Talin sipped his coffee.

"Why didn't you get home last night?"

Dimitri wiped a hand down his face and let out a short yawn.

"My business took longer than I expected. I was headed home when you called."

Talin met Dimitri's tired gaze.

"You should sleep."

"Can I crash on your bed?" Dimitri asked.

Talin stared, thinking Dimitri was joking. When Dimitri raised his brow in question, he gaped.

"Oh, you're serious," Talin said in shock. He hadn't made his bed yet. Standing up, he took Dimitri's bowl to the sink. "Are you sure you don't want to go home? I can drive you there if you're worried about driving—,"

"Talin," Dimitri got up and came behind Talin to wrap his strong arms around him.

Their bodies fit. Dimitri's heat seeped into him through his thin t-shirt. Talin couldn't help leaning back against Dimitri's chest.

"Please show me your bed," Dimitri said. "I'm ready to pass out."

Talin sighed because when Dimitri pressed a kiss on his jaw, his self-preservation disappeared.

Minutes later, a fully dressed Dimitri was sprawled on his bed. Talin pulled the covers over him, and sat on the edge of the bed.

"Are you busy?" Dimitri mumbled out, his eyes closed.

"Why?" Talin asked.

"Stay with me," Dimitri said sleepily.

"I thought you were ready to pass out."

"I am," Dimitri said, opening his eyes to look at Talin. "I'd like it though if you stayed with me for a while."

Talin touched Dimitri's strong jaw, his fingers rubbing dark stubble. Dimitri's gaze held his and his heart skipped a beat.

"You're a conundrum."

Dimitri smiled and grabbed his arm, his fingers wrapping around Talin's wrist. He tugged until Talin decided to lie on the bed beside him.

Dimitri placed a protective arm over him.

"This is good."

"Go to sleep," Talin ordered, surprised by how comfortable it felt to have Dimitri so close.

He planned to move the moment Dimitri fell asleep.

Twenty minutes later, Talin still lay on the bed watching Dimitri breathe in and out.

_It was the first time in years_ , he thought, _the first time to have someone he dared want in his bed._

***

**4**

Dimitri couldn't help smiling as he drove along Lakeshore Blvd later that evening, heading to a secluded restaurant he loved.

Talin sat in the passenger seat, nervous and excited.

Talin looked handsome this evening. Silky black hair fell around his face, glossy from a good brushing. Dimitri kept thinking of sinking his fingers into it just to feel how soft it was. Talin had chosen a white v-neck t-shirt, black jeans and a fitted black leather jacket that looked new.

His smile widened at the thought of Talin giving extra effort to his appearance for their date.

"Why are you smiling so hard?" Talin asked after a while.

"I'm happy."

Talin shifted in his seat so that he sat facing him.

"Dimitri."

"Hmm..."

"Why do you know so much about me?"

Dimitri glanced at Talin. He'd hoped Talin wouldn't notice that, but then again, Talin was smart and shrewd.

"Why do you say that?"

"This morning when I called you," Talin said. "You knew it was me. I've never given you my number."

Dimitri hoped his smile didn't waiver.

"I got the number from Ken."

"Ken?"

"Yeah," Dimitri said, with a casual shrug. "It was around the time he worked for you. I warned him I'd call you the next time I caught him. He was afraid of you finding out about him."

Talin nodded and dropped his gaze to his hands. "I feel like an idiot."

"Why?" Dimitri asked.

"I didn't know...I didn't see what he was doing."

Talin shook his head in disappointment.

"Hey," Dimitri said. "Talin, I don't want to see a frown on your face."

"I can't help it," Talin said looking up. "The Talon is my home, you know. I don't want bad stuff like drugs touching it. I'm sure you must feel the same way about the marina."

Dimitri concentrated on driving instead of that last statement. If he thought about it too much, he was liable to turn back and drop off Talin. Deciding the topic was too serious, he reached out to take Talin's hand.

"Talin," he said when he took Talin's left hand. "Let's make a promise for tonight."

"Promise?" Talin asked.

"Yes." Dimitri tangled his fingers with Talin's. "No talk about work, Ken, drugs, murder cases."

"That takes away a lot of what we have in common."

"Well," Dimitri looked at Talin. "We might find other things we have in common."

"Like what?" Talin asked.

Dimitri grinned.

"Food, music, art...there is more to life than work, Talin."

"I haven't bothered to step out of the work box in a long time."

"Why not?" Dimitri asked curious.

Talin seemed the sort to enjoy everything life had to offer.

Talin squeezed his fingers and shifted his gaze to the road ahead of them. The sun was setting, the rays coming right at them. Dimitri let go of Talin's hand to reach for the visor on Talin's side. He lowered it, making sure Talin's eyes were shaded.

Talin looked at him with a small frown that quickly disappeared, replaced with a small smile.

Dimitri took Talin's hand again, his gaze on the road.

"Tell me why you have concentrated on work, Talin."

Talin cleared his throat and pushed hair back from his face.

"I don't know. It seemed easier."

"Easier?" Dimitri asked.

"Yes."

"Easier than what, Talin?" he asked curious beyond belief.

Talin looked out his window for a moment before he answered.

"Easier than letting life in," Talin said.

Dimitri knew that tone well. Deep-seated sadness was difficult to hide. To hear it in Talin's voice...he reached for Talin's hand drawing his attention back to the car.

"Well, I'm taking on this challenge," he said.

"What challenge?" Talin asked.

"Reintroducing you back to life," he said. "We're going to get you immersed in life so much you won't know where it starts and your self-imposed exile from it ends."

Talin chuckled.

"The things you say," Talin said. "What makes you think I haven't been happy?"

"Even if you've been happy," Dimitri said. "I'm here to make you happier."

"And how are you going to manage that, Dimitri?"

Dimitri let go of Talin's hand and slowed down.

"By starting with food," Dimitri said.

He made a right turn onto a gravel road.

Talin shifted in his seat, his gaze on the trees lining the road.

"Are we going to someone's house? Jeez, Dimitri, you should have told me. How can we show up empty-handed?"

"Relax," Dimitri said as they approached a two-storey stone house.

Warm, yellow lights lit up the driveway, and the fountain in the middle. He parked the car in one of the spaces right in front of the house.

"Where are we?"

"My favorite restaurant," Dimitri said, opening his door. "Stay put."

He got out of the car, and hurried around to Talin's side as Talin opened his door.

Dimitri scowled as Talin got out.

"I told you to stay put."

"Why?" Talin asked looking around the property.

Dimitri sighed. "I was going to open the door for you."

Talin's gaze returned to him.

"Seriously?" Talin asked.

"Yes." Dimitri moved him out of the way, so that he could shut the passenger door. "You've ruined it."

Talin studied him in amusement.

"Are you upset with me?"

"Yes." Dimitri frowned. "Are you going to be like this all night?"

"Like what?"

"Spoiling my fantasies," Dimitri said. "I have something to show you."

"What?" Talin asked.

Taking Talin's hand, he led the way to a small cobbled path that would take them around the house.

"A view I discovered a while back," Dimitri said excited.

When he'd first found this place, he'd been eighteen, heading out to the army. He remembered sitting on a bench behind this house, wondering if he'd ever get a chance to share this scenery with someone he cared for.

The wild garden was in full bloom. Leading Talin along the path, they passed flowers in riots of color. Talin touched a lavender flower with a smile as they stepped on grass. Holding Talin's hand tight, Dimitri led the way to the edge of the property.

"Whoever owns this place has a lovely backyard." Talin looked around the neat manicured bushes, the pristine grass. "Friend of yours?"

"Yes," Dimitri said.

Talin nodded.

"And this friend turned his home into a restaurant?"

" _Her_ home," Dimitri corrected, pleased by the note of jealousy he heard in Talin's voice. "She lets me come over whenever I want."

"She's very generous then," Talin said.

They reached the edge of the property, and Dimitri let go of Talin's hand. He moved behind Talin to cover his eyes.

"What are you doing?" Talin asked reaching up to hold on to Dimitri's hand. "Dimitri..."

"I got you," Dimitri said leading him to the railing built to protect people from plunging over a short cliff to the beach below.

The sun was setting in the horizon. He waited for the fading light to kiss the surface of the lake, turning it into a spectacular dance of sparkling water. Dimitri dropped his hands away.

"Look, now."

He took in Talin's appreciative gasp, sealing it tight in the vault of his heart.

"What do you think?"

Talin leaned on the rail. "I'm stunned you know a place like this."

Dimitri chuckled and reached to push a strand of hair that swept into Talin's eyes.

"I know a great deal of places that would stun you."

"Tell me about them," Talin said looking at him.

Dimitri stared into brown eyes and felt like he could tell Talin everything... _everything_. However, it was too early for that. He didn't want to scare Talin away.

"Well, there is this place..." he started opting to remember the lighter parts of his life.

And so, standing at the railing by the lake, Dimitri told Talin of places he'd visited around the country and the world. Unique cities, odd houses...strange towns...gods some of those places he'd vowed to forget, but he loved how Talin leaned on the railing listening to him. Loved it when Talin's eyes brightened with amusement, or he gave a short disbelieving laugh. He loved it even more when Talin leaned into him, as they stood watching the sunset.

"We should head in now," Dimitri said when the sun disappeared. "It's getting cold. You must be hungry."

Talin nodded in agreement. He didn't protest when Dimitri held his hand. They walked slowly to the house.

"How come you've gone to all those places?"

"Work related," Dimitri said honestly. "I didn't always stay in Colston, you know. When I turned eighteen, I wanted to distance myself from Colston, Ohio. So, I joined the army to fight the good fight."

Talin studied him for a moment, before he pointed to the main house.

"Tell me about your friend who owns the restaurant."

"You've already met her." Dimitri opened the back door, and let Talin in to a busy commercial kitchen. There was a chef hard at work at the cooking range. She looked up when the door closed behind them and Talin gaped.

"Katerina?"

"Talin, nice to see you again," she said turning off the fire at the range where she worked.

Katerina moved the pan and handed over to the man standing beside her. She wiped her hands on a clean cloth at her waist and crossed the room to greet them.

Katerina hugged Talin, kissing his jaw.

"You look handsome."

Dimitri didn't miss the color that flooded Talin's cheeks as he thanked Katerina for the compliment.

"I hope Dimitri didn't keep you out there too long. He loves watching sunsets."

Talin smiled at Dimitri.

"No, it wasn't too long."

Katerina turned to Dimitri.

"Ready for dinner?" she asked.

"Yes," Dimitri said.

"Good," Katerina took Talin's hand and led them out of the busy kitchen. "I'll show you to your table. Talin, today you eat my food, yes? If you like it, you must come back."

Talin laughed.

"I guess Dimitri wasn't kidding when he said you're the best chef in town."

"Dimitri is biased."

Katerina led the way into a warm dining room decorated to look like a comfortable home, customers sat on comfortable couches, and dining chairs in the main dining room. Waiters moved from table to table. The atmosphere filled with soft music that didn't interfere with conversation.

Katerina led them down a short corridor to a private dining room.

"I saved you the best table in the house."

Katerina urged Talin to take a seat at the round table in the middle of the room. She patted Talin's shoulder and turned to Dimitri.

"Don't worry," she said. "I'll handle dinner orders, okay?"

Dimitri nodded and she winked at him before she hurried away.

"Your sister-in-law is the owner?" Talin asked when Dimitri slipped into the chair to his right. "You could have warned me."

"And ruin the surprise?" Dimitri asked.

"I thought she lived with you at the marina."

"She does," Dimitri said watching Talin arrange a napkin on his lap. "This house belonged to her parents. Four years ago, they passed away, and she didn't want to sell the place. Lukas and I convinced her to open a restaurant."

"So when did you find out about the view?"

"When Lukas and Katerina started dating," Dimitri smiled. "I was graduating high school, and Katerina was having a party. They invited me."

Talin shifted in his seat so that they faced each other.

"Tell me how Lukas and Kat met."

Dimitri chuckled.

"Why do you want to know?"

"I like hearing stories like that. Each couple feels they have a unique first-meet, but in truth it's all the same."

"How is that?"

Talin smiled.

"They're all drawn to each other by an unknown force. Like magnets, they end up together no matter what's in between them."

"Do you think there is a force like that for us?" Dimitri asked.

Talin met his gaze.

"Are we a couple?"

"Of course," Dimitri said.

Talin laughed and shook his head.

"You're jumping ahead, Dimitri. We barely know each other."

Dimitri took his napkin and placed it on his lap.

"There are married people who don't know each other."

"Why would you say that?"

"Because," Dimitri said. "It's the truth, Talin."

Talin reached for his water glass and sipped.

"I don't know about you, but I like to know people before I consider them couple material."

"So, is this our first date?" Dimitri asked.

Talin placed his glass on the table.

"I suppose it is."

"You suppose?" Dimitri asked.

Shifting his chair closer to Talin, he kissed Talin's parted lips. The kiss was short but it was full, possessive.

Talin gave a soft gasp when he broke the kiss.

Dimitri sat back in his seat with a grin.

"That's so you don't have any doubts."

"Doubts?" Talin asked.

"That this is our first date," Dimitri said as a waiter walked in with their appetizers.

***

By dessert, Talin was sure he'd added a few extra pounds. A week of Katerina's cooking and he'd end up as big as a house. The woman could cook.

Sipping his wine, his gaze lingered on Dimitri, thinking about the past hours. They'd spent the day together. All of it felt like a dream, but it was hard to forget Dimitri lying on his bed. Those green eyes closed in sleep. He'd trailed fingers along Dimitri's strong jaw wishing he could press a kiss on Dimitri's jaw. Talin left the bedroom to go work on his business records two hours after Dimitri fell asleep.

Dimitri slept until four in the afternoon. When he'd woken up, he'd found Talin doing laundry. Dimitri helped fold dry clothes before he'd left to go get ready for their date.

Dimitri returned an hour later dressed in a black shirt, slacks and matching blazer. The Dimitri in the detective's picture come to life before him. The man smelled good, looked good, told astounding tales, and his kisses...Talin could easily fall for him.

Dimitri looked up from his cell phone and caught him staring.

"What are you thinking about?"

Talin smiled.

"You slept the day away."

Dimitri returned his phone into his blazer pocket with a smile.

"It was the best sleep I've had in weeks." Dimitri met his gaze. "I love your bed."

Talin laughed and shook his head.

"Does that line work?"

Dimitri grinned and sat back in his seat.

"I don't need pickup lines."

"Is that so?" Talin mused.

Of course, a man like Dimitri wouldn't need to work hard to find a lover. He probably gave a nod and they fell at his feet. Dimitri wasn't exactly the type to stay without a lover. He was too handsome, too...raw, to go without.

How many lovers did he have in a week?

Dimitri narrowed his gaze.

"Talin, I don't have anyone in my life, if that's what you're asking."

Talin sipped his wine to drown the doubts that cropped up in his head.

"I'm not asking anything."

"I can see that you're thinking about it."

"What's with you?" Talin frowned. "Can you read my mind?"

Dimitri chuckled.

"Your face is quite expressive, Talin."

"No way," Talin shook his head.

"Yes way," Dimitri said.

"If that's the case, what am I thinking about right now?" Talin asked, leaning his elbows on the table.

Dimitri moved his wineglass aside and leaned on the table too.

Green eyes studied him, as though they could see right into him. His heart skipped when Dimitri's gaze dropped to his lips.

"You're thinking..." Dimitri said. "That you want to kiss me."

Talin laughed.

"You're the one who likes kissing me. Since yesterday, all you've done is kissed me unexpectedly."

"Do you hate it?"

Talin met Dimitri's gaze.

"No, I don't hate it."

"You love it then," Dimitri said, pleased, "and so I should keep doing it."

"I think you're playing on your fantasies."

"I won't lie. I have a million and counting of those," Dimitri said in a sexy husky tone.

"I promised you one date."

Talin reminded him as though that would stop this growing attraction between them.

Each time Dimitri looked at him, he felt like he might melt into the ground with need.

"I'm sure you don't believe we're done after I take you home tonight."

Of course Talin didn't, but he'd hoped. Their attraction wasn't easy. He didn't think he had the energy for a relationship. The need to keep seeing Dimitri...listening to him talk about everything and nothing...his chest tightened. He didn't think he had the energy it would take. Dimitri was too much.

Dropping his gaze to the clean table, Talin frowned.

"What happened to dessert?"

Dimitri sat back in his chair and reached for his glass of white wine.

"I'm sure Kat is bringing—

The door opened and Katerina came in carrying a covered platter. She looked tired, and she'd removed the chef's hat, her hair was in a messy ponytail.

She pulled a seat next to Talin.

"I didn't forget you. I had a small kitchen crisis. How was the orange chicken and veggie stir-fry?"

"Divine," Talin said rubbing his flat stomach. "I could eat a dozen plates. I can imagine living with you. I'm sure meal times are an adventure."

Kat beamed looking at Dimitri.

"You hear that, an adventure, not a nuisance in the kitchen. I hope you remember it when you're complaining about wanting simple macaroni and cheese."

"Mac and cheese?" Talin asked.

"Don't send Dimitri to the supermarket," Kat said with a small shudder. "He'll bring instant mac and cheese boxes home. He ignores my list and buys whatever he wants."

Dimitri chuckled. "But I like macaroni and cheese."

"Don't annoy me right now. Anyway, Talin, I've brought dessert."

She removed the cover from the platter to reveal browned pastries that looked like small horns filled with fluffy cream.

Talin picked one, and took a bite. It melted in his mouth; the cream had a maddening tang of lemon that made him want to reach for more.

"This is delicious. What is it?" he asked reaching for another one.

"Cream-horn _Trubochki_ ," Katerina said. "Dimitri's favorite, he can eat a hundred in one sitting."

"I can see how," Talin said as he reached for another. They were sinfully delicious. Glancing at Dimitri, he asked, "Want one?"

Dimitri shook his head, his expression odd.

Katerina laughed.

"That's very new. I've never once seen Dimitri turn down _Trubochki_."

Talin grinned, loving the taste of lemon in the filling. It was too good.

"Mmm...Kat, marry me. Know if you say yes, you'll have to bake these all day."

Katerina laughed.

Dimitri stood up pushing his chair back too fast that his chair toppled and fell back.

"Dimitri," Kat said staring at her brother in-law in surprise.

Dimitri righted the chair and grabbed the platter. He pressed it into Katerina's hands.

"Please pack them, we're leaving."

Talin frowned reaching for his wine glass.

"Where are we going?"

Dimitri moved around the table to take Talin's wine glass out of his hand.

"Come on, Talin."

"You're so complicated, Dimitri," Katerina complained as she left with the platter.

Standing up, Talin turned to demand what was going on, only to have Dimitri pull him into his arms and kiss him. A hot wanton kiss that had him clinging to Dimitri's shirt.

Dimitri ended the kiss as abruptly as he'd started it. Wrapping his arms around Talin, he let out a shaky breath.

"Dimitri?"

"I think you should stop eating Kat's baked goods."

Talin frowned. "What?"

Dimitri sighed and pressed a kiss on his jaw.

"Or, if you do it, make sure we're alone...hmm...I feel like a teenager around you."

Talin laughed and Dimitri took his hand leading him out of the dining room. They found Katerina in the corridor talking with the restaurant hostess.

"Kat," Talin said when they reached her. "Thanks for a lovely dinner."

She waved off the restaurant hostess and smiled at Talin.

"Come back anytime, Talin. You'll always have a table here. We're open from four in the evening, okay?"

He nodded and excused himself to go to the bathroom.

***

"Stop staring, he's not going to disappear in the men's room." Katerina touched Dimitri's left arm. "I wish I could change your mind."

Dimitri dragged his gaze away from Talin to meet Katerina's concerned one.

"You've stated your thoughts on the matter. I've told you mine."

"Yes, I get all that, but I'm really fond of Talin. I like him Dimitri. I don't want to fight you for hurting him. So..."

"So?" Dimitri asked holding her gaze.

"Can you tell him the truth before he gets too involved with you?" Katerina dropped her gaze with a sigh. "At least let him decide whether you're worth the trouble."

Dimitri sighed and leaned on the wall.

"What if I don't want him to decide? I don't want him to have a reason to runaway from me, Kat."

"Sometimes you have to take a chance," Katerina said touching his jaw with a small smile. "Talin has a good head on his shoulders. I'm sure he'll hear you out."

A young man brought a white pastry box, thankfully interrupting their topic.

Katerina inspected the packed _trubochki_ and gave the young man a nod. She turned to Dimitri with a frown.

"You should probably leave through the kitchen. Lucian is in the dining room. He's having dinner."

Dimitri scowled.

Lucian Pajari, the bane of his existence. If it weren't for Lucian, his life would be relatively peaceful. Damn it, why did Lucian insist on showing up here.

"I'll go talk to him. He shouldn't do this—,"

"Talin is coming back," Katerina stopped him. "Lucian won't cause harm. He'll eat, and then leave. He's only flexing his muscles, letting us know not to forget him."

"I don't like it when he comes close to family." Dimitri cursed under his breath when he saw Talin heading back toward them. "I'll drop Talin off."

"Dimitri." Katerina touched his arm but Talin reached them.

"Ready?" Dimitri asked Talin with a wide smile.

"Yes. Kat, thank you again," Talin said hugging her.

She gave him the white box, and Talin thanked her with a happy smile.

Dimitri took Talin's hand and headed to the kitchen. He didn't want Lucian anywhere close to Talin.

Outside, Talin hugged the pastry box Katerina gave him.

"Is it true you like these?"

Dimitri wrapped an arm around Talin's shoulders as they went around the house to the front.

"My mother used to make them when we were kids. Every Sunday, we had them."

They reached the parking lot and Dimitri scowled when he found Lucian's black Ferrari parked right next to his Mazda.

Talin gave an appreciative whistle.

"Nice," Talin said.

Dimitri unlocked the car and opened the door for Talin.

"Want me to get you one like it?"

Talin scoffed.

"No, thank you, I love my car."

Dimitri grinned as Talin got in to the passenger side and he closed the door. Of course, Talin wouldn't want a car bought for him.

_Such a stubborn man_ , he thought as he walked around to the driver's side.

Talin had opened the pastry box. He got one cream filled horn pastry and held it out.

"Take a bite."

Dimitri took a bite, the addictive taste of lemon bursting in his mouth. Talin grinned and ate the rest. The front door opened and Dimitri froze when he saw Lucian standing there watching them.

Starting the car, Dimitri pulled out of the parking spot and drove out of the parking lot as fast as he could. Lucian was fishing.

Talin fed him another piece.

"Talin, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure."

Talin looked relaxed, enjoying their dessert happily. Dimitri thought about Kat's warning and felt fear creep in. The thought of telling Talin the truth too hard, he didn't want to see rejection in Talin's eyes.

_Anything but that_ , he thought.

"Dimitri?" Talin prompted looking at him.

Dimitri cleared his throat.

"Did you have fun tonight?" he asked.

Talin studied him for a moment.

"Yeah," Talin said with a pleased smile.

Dimitri nodded, sad when he turned into Vine Street. They reached the Talon too quickly. He drove to the back of the club, and parked close to the stairs leading to the second floor.

Talin closed the box.

"Do you want to come up for coffee?"

Dimitri didn't want coffee. He wanted Talin.

Opening his door, he smiled when Talin did the same and got out. He followed Talin upstairs.

Talin opened the door to his loft, and paused at the door to remove his boots. Dimitri followed suit as Talin switched on the lights. He would have pulled Talin into his arms, but then he saw the black rose on the floor.

"Whoa," Talin said bending to pick it up. "Wonder how that got here. A black rose, this has to be a joke from Lori." Talin chuckled. "Wow, I've never seen one before. The petals are soft."

Dimitri's chest tightened, he could barely breathe. Wearing his shoes, he took the rose from Talin and pulled him in for a kiss to distract him.

"I can't stay for the coffee," he said, his lips against Talin's smooth jaw. Talin's gaze was half-closed when he looked at him. "I just wanted to get you home. Can I come over tomorrow morning? We can have breakfast together."

Talin caressed his jaw.

"Can't say I'm not disappointed you're leaving, but breakfast sounds good."

Dimitri held Talin tight for a moment, hugging him close, breathing in his scent. He let go of Talin a minute later, taking the rose with him.

"Don't finish the _trubochk_ i," Dimitri teased as he opened the front door. "We can share it in the morning."

Talin grinned as he closed the door.

Dimitri waited until he heard the lock turn. He stood staring at the black rose in his hand. He turned to leave and stopped when he saw Lucian standing a few feet away.

***

**5**

"I like your new boyfriend."

Dimitri gritted his teeth not moving a muscle. They stood in the Talon's parking lot. Lucian leaning on his Ferrari, Dimitri stood by his Mazda. The space was necessary. Any closer and Dimitri would not manage to hold back his anger. He hated the smirk on Lucian's face.

Gripping the black rose tight, he held it up.

"Is this your idea of a joke?"

Lucian folded his arms against his chest with a whistle.

"I think I'm not the only one reminding you of your business. Don't you think it's funny?"

Dimitri threw the rose at Lucian's feet.

"Veiled threats don't suit you, Lucian." Dimitri looked around the parking lot. The club was still open. "This is also not the best place for this. We should go elsewhere."

Lucian picked up the black rose from the tarmac, inspecting the fragile dark petals in the streetlights.

"Your problem Dimitri is that you think everything is solved by bulldozing. From your business at the marina, and now I see you're the same with personal matters. That handsome Talin has no idea what you are. Should I tell him?"

Dimitri closed the distance between them and grabbed Lucian's neat tie, tugging it hard.

"One hair falls off his head, one, Lucian," Dimitri hissed. "You'll wish you'd killed me when you had the chance."

Dimitri let go and stepped back.

Lucian coughed and adjusted his tie.

"You're such a fucking brute," Lucian said. "I was taking stock of where your heart lies. It seems I need to include the Talon into my routine schedule."

"I don't want you here," Dimitri snapped. Talin didn't deserve to be part of this stupid charade he was running. "The Talon is out of bounds."

Lucian adjusted his suit jacket and straightened up to his full height.

"It's not your place to make that decision, and you know it, Dimitri. If you'd stayed away from him, I wouldn't need to keep an eye on him. Now, about the shipment last night—,"

"We spent the night unpacking and transporting it across town to the warehouse you designated. There were no screw-ups on our side."

"Yes, we're lucky you're such a stickler for details. Your marina has turned into quite an asset. Dimitri, I have to admit, when I first met you, I didn't like you at all."

"I don't like you either."

"Ouch," Lucian chuckled. "Here I was about to declare how interesting you're getting. No matter, I think you're ready."

Dimitri narrowed his gaze.

"Ready for what?" he asked half-afraid.

He'd waited so long, for it to happen now...

"Vlad wants to meet you tonight."

Dimitri held Lucian's gaze, everything inside him stilling. He'd waited four years for this. All those years, peddling dirty merchandise to the shore for Lucian like a good servant. Just when he'd thought, it was never going to happen—he'd even decided to meet Talin.

_Jeez, why did the bastard choose now of all times?_

"Where?" Dimitri asked.

"You don't get to know." Lucian unlocked his car. He reached in to the backseat and produced a black strip of cloth. "You get to rest your eyes for a while. We should get going. Only if you're interested, Dimitri. There's no turning back if you agree. Know that you're dragging Lukas, Katerina and now Talin into this."

"I don't understand why my family—

"We've had this argument," Lucian said, his tone harsh. "You can't trust a man without strong ties. However, when you do trust him, then you must know his weaknesses thoroughly. Your family is your weakness, Dimitri. So, whatever happens to them is up to you. Now, are you in? Or do I get to shoot you dead."

Dimitri scoffed.

His gaze strayed to the second floor of the club. The living room lights were on; Talin hadn't gone to sleep yet. Dimitri wished he could turn away from Lucian and head back up the stairs.

Dimitri turned back to Lucian who held up the black strip of cloth. Taking it, Dimitri walked around the Ferrari to the passenger side. Once he was settled, he tied the cloth over his eyes.

"Great decision," Lucian praised when he slid into the driver's side. "Look at it this way; no one will mess with your little boyfriend from now on. Those are the perks of joining us, Dimitri."

Dimitri wasn't sure how he could consider the Brotherhood following his family a reward. The risks he was taking...he closed his eyes and settled for the ride. Thankfully, Lucian didn't need to talk on their drive. Instead, Lucian turned the radio on. Classical music filled the Ferrari's interior, strange choice for a man like Lucian Pajari. Dimitri had expected hard rock or metal. The music was soothing, enough for Dimitri's thoughts to stray to the first time he'd heard of the Brotherhood.

Four years ago, Dimitri returned to Colston for his father's funeral. Lukas and Katerina met him at the airport wearing somber expressions. They'd all been shocked by the news. Ivan Sedlackov had been one of those men who seemed invincible.

Dimitri had helped Lukas with the funeral arrangements a sense of great loss weighing on his shoulders. The only way to soothe that loss had been to leave Colston again, so, he'd also been preparing to leave right after the funeral.

Until he'd found Lukas drinking in their father's study the night after they buried their father.

"You should stop."

Dimitri took the glass from Lukas, but his younger brother grabbed the bottle and took a healthy swig.

"Lukas, drinking won't bring Papa back. He was old you know. He's gone to be with mama."

"You're so optimistic, Dimitri. Papa is no saint. He's gone to hell."

Dimitri sighed quite aware that Lukas was angry. His brother hadn't stopped drinking once through the wake and funeral. Katerina busied herself in the kitchen feeding the town, cooking day and night as though she were in a cooking marathon. Dimitri stared into the glass he'd taken from Lukas.

"Are you going to tell me what's going on?"

Lukas looked at him.

"Why do you care? You're heading off to your life as some sort of government agent. You don't even tell me what you're doing anymore."

"I can't," Dimitri said. "You know I can't."

"Yeah," Lukas sighed. "It's no wonder Papa didn't trust you. He always said not to trust someone who can't tell you what they're doing. Please, leave, Dimitri."

Dimitri slammed the glass he held on their father's desk.

"Enough, Lukas," he said. "You chose to stay here and take over the marina. I didn't want that, so I left. I haven't interfered with you, Lukas. You practically own this marina. Why are you so bitter now?"

"Papa wanted you to take over the marina, did you know that?" Lukas asked meeting Dimitri's gaze. "I bet you didn't because he never told you."

"I don't need the marina, Lukas."

"You heard what his lawyer said," Lukas said. "Papa left it to both of us, sharing the profits in equal parts. You inherited the house."

"Is this about his properties? I'll give the house to you," Dimitri said thinking he made enough in his job to settle elsewhere. "Besides, Papa thought I'd fill it with grandchildren. We both know I'm not the one to do that. You and Katerina deserve it. Why don't you tell me what's really bothering you?"

Lukas sighed and shook his head.

"Why are you so good to me? Why can't you fight with me so I send you away and we never have to have this conversation?"

"Do you want to fight with me?"

"I want you to yell at me." Lukas pushed the bottle away and ran fingers through his hair. "I want us to fight, break ties, so I don't have to tell you—

"Tell me what?" Dimitri asked.

Lukas blinked at him.

"Lukas?" Dimitri asked.

Lukas wiped a hand down his face.

"Papa was murdered."

"No." Dimitri shook his head. "I checked the pathologist's records. Papa died of a heart attack out on the _Anastasia_. He loved that boat too much. He shouldn't have been out there alone."

"That's what they wanted you to think." Lukas shook his head and stood up. Hands shaking he walked around the chair to the windows. "There are things about Papa he couldn't tell you."

"What things?" Dimitri asked staring at his brother in shock. "Who are you talking about? Who is this telling you stories?"

"The Brotherhood," Lukas said in a whisper.

Dimitri chuckled.

"Alright, you've had too much to drink. Time for you to find Katerina, and let her soothe you...hmm, this drinking is not good for you."

"Will you listen to me?" Lukas snapped. "We're in trouble, Dimitri. I don't know how to protect Katerina from this. They showed up here—,"

"Who showed up here?"

"Three men from the Brotherhood—

Lukas was sounding like a madman. Dimitri chuckled and tossed back the drink he'd taken from his brother. The whiskey burned down his throat, clearing his head.

"I'm getting a headache listening to you. You're saying three men from ' _the Brotherhood'_ , came to tell you they killed Papa? Lukas, I know you like watching action movies, but this is going overboard. Papa was old. He had a bad heart."

Lukas returned to the desk and unlocked the top drawer. He removed a brown envelope and placed it on the desk. Lukas's eyes were tinged with red, he looked on the verge of a breakdown, and Dimitri didn't like it.

Worried for his brother's state of mind, Dimitri picked up the envelope. Untying the opening, he upended the contents on the table and pictures fell out.

Giving Lukas a confused glance, he picked up one of the photographs. The pictures were black and white. Their father, Ivan, stood holding a gun, his gaze on a man lying face down on the floor. Dimitri felt his blood run cold. Spreading the pictures, he stared at proof of their father shooting a man. The pictures showed a sequence of the man standing, their father shooting, ending with the man dead on the floor.

"What is this?" Dimitri asked Lukas. "Are you sure these photographs are not doctored?"

"That's Papa," Lukas said in a tight voice. "The man lying dead in the pictures is someone called Ilia Pajari. He's supposed to be a brother to a Lucian. Those men who came said Papa worked with them...with the Brotherhood. They said that he made a mistake choosing to leave like this. So, they had him killed."

Dimitri went through the pictures again.

His father didn't seem like the man he knew. Ivan looked different, hardened, far from the warm man he knew, had known all his life. The man in these pictures looked ruthless, hard, and ready to do anything. Dimitri had met many men like that.

He stepped back from the desk.

"Tell me again, who came here?" Dimitri asked. "What did they tell you?"

"They brought those photos. Something about seeing blood for blood and that now that Ivan was dead, I had to take over his work."

"Blood for blood?" Dimitri repeated. "Did they use that specific phrase?"

"Yes." Lukas shook his head. "I didn't know what they meant, but seeing those pictures..." Lukas met Dimitri's gaze. "I'm scared, Dimitri. What was father doing? How could we not have known? Huh? How could he do this? Why?"

Dimitri lifted his hand.

"Calm down, Lukas."

"How can I calm down?" Lukas asked, tears running down his face. "What happens if Kat gets pregnant? She wants kids, a family. Can you imagine having them grow up in this? The Brotherhood doesn't sound so family-oriented, Dimitri."

Dimitri's gaze returned to the pictures. He didn't know if this was true, but he didn't want to judge his father too soon. Ivan Sedlackov was a good man, a family man. There was no way their father would have done this. The photos looked real but they could also be false. Someone staging a scene, he'd done it more than once.

"Lukas," he said moving to the table. Dimitri collected the photographs and put them into the envelope. "I'll handle this."

"Just like that," Lukas said studying him. "Aren't you in the least bit angry about what Papa has done here? That man in the picture, I can't reconcile him with the father who sat at the kitchen table with us."

Dimitri dropped the envelope on the desk and went to give Lukas a tight hug.

"It's going to be fine," he soothed his brother. "We'll get to the bottom of this. Come on, I'll take you upstairs. Kat is probably worried about you."

"You're handling me," Lukas said in protest.

"Of course," Dimitri said with a small laugh.

He pressed a kiss on his brother's forehead.

"I'm your big brother. I handle the problems. Come, Lukas. You're drunk and Papa's funeral was hard on all of us. You need sleep. Tomorrow, things will make sense."

Lukas sighed.

"Yeah, you're probably right. Even though, I don't think they'll get better soon, Dimitri. Whoever the Brotherhood is, they want the marina. They'll fight us for it."

"They won't get it," Dimitri promised as they headed upstairs...

That night was the start of this journey, Dimitri thought now.

He'd spent all his hours since then building a reputation that would ensure he met the head of this Brotherhood.

"We're here," Lucian said beside him. "Try to be cordial."

Dimitri removed the black cloth from his eyes and blinked when bright lights assaulted his eyes. Rubbing them, he stared at the brightly lit room.

"Is this your garage?" Dimitri asked looking around the white room. "Your electricity bill must cost a fortune."

Lucian chuckled and got out of the Ferrari.

"It's more of a bunker. No windows for you to peep out and tell our location, the walls are fortified, no outside sound."

"So careful," Dimitri said, his gaze sweeping the room anyway.

Lucian led the way to a door on his right. He opened it with a flourish to reveal stairs that led down to a sub-floor. The stairs led to a well-lit corridor with a door at the end.

Dimitri followed behind Lucian. At the end of the corridor, Lucian opened the door surprising Dimitri further.

After all the clinical lighting and stark walls, the room Lucian led him to was warm, more like a home. The living room was decorated with rich colors: reds, gold and burgundies dominating the decor. The hardwood floors highly polished.

Lucian led the way through a short hallway to a bright kitchen. Dimitri paused when he saw a woman decorating a cake at one of the tables. Her long black hair held back with a pink scarf. She wore a pink apron with little apples decorating it. She didn't look up from the decoration she was making.

"I've brought him," Lucian said.

"Lucian, will you go check on the kids. I don't want them to see the cake yet. I want it to be a surprise."

Lucian nodded and left the kitchen through a second door to their left.

"Dimitri Sedlackov."

The woman looked up with a small smile. She was older, possibly in her early fifties. He doubted she was a great beauty at a younger age, plain-faced maybe. Her power was in her eyes, brown sharp eyes that missed nothing. She wiped her hands on a towel and stepped back to study the cake.

"I've worked on this all evening." She looked at him. "Won't you come tell me if you like it?"

Dimitri moved closer to the table littered with baking accessories. The cake was pink; she'd made little white flowers on the edges.

"It looks good."

She chuckled.

"You flatter me. I'm sure your sister does a better job at this. I should have asked her to make the cake. I don't know why I didn't think of it."

Dimitri studied the cake and shook his head.

"No, this is good. A cake always tastes better when it comes from the heart."

She looked up with a small frown.

"Well said, Dimitri, a bit unexpected from a man with your reputation. I hope Lucian was kind to you when he brought you here."

"He did his best," Dimitri said.

"Lucian always does his best," she said. She held out a slender hand. "I'm sure your first question is where Vlad is."

Dimitri took the offered hand.

"I don't need to ask. You are Vlad."

She chuckled.

"Quite smart, aren't you? How did you know?"

"The living room," he said.

"Living room?" she frowned, studying him for a moment. "Looks like I'll have to be on my toes with you. I approve. I like a challenge. Lucian brought you today because of your good work lately. We've rarely had a smooth run in shipments. Your marina is handy, Dimitri. I'm tempted to take it over."

"We run smooth because the local people are familiar with us," Dimitri said. "New faces would raise suspicion."

"Perhaps the only reason I haven't made the move to take over your quaint business," she answered. "You handled the Caleb Barnes scandal well. I didn't like seeing your name in the papers. It drew too much attention."

"People think I worked with Caleb. Even though I'm not under arrest, they suspect I managed to weasel away. The negative attention is useful in some circles," he said.

"Caleb Barnes deserves what he's going to get for trying to swindle me. Lucian took care of his nephew. We're left with Ken Luther. Do you happen to know where we can find him?"

Dimitri had suspected the Brotherhood had screwed Caleb Barnes over, but to have it so clearly stated. He frowned.

"Is this what I expect when you're done working with me?"

"You get what you work for," Vlad said with a small mysterious smile.

She removed her apron to reveal an elegant navy dress that hugged her figure to perfection. She dropped the apron on the table, took the cake, and nodded toward the door Lucian had gone through.

"Come, I'll explain our alliance further, Dimitri Sedlackov."

***

Vlad, it was strange to think of a woman with such a name, led the way into a dining room with a long table. Four men sat sipping wine on one side, they laughed as they talked. The mood seemed festive. Lucian sat across them, his attention on his phone. When Lucian saw Vlad walk in, he stood, and the men quieted down.

"Gentlemen, dessert took longer than I imagined," Vlad said as she took the cake to the table. "I hope you like my chocolate cake."

Dimitri had imagined little children would be having the cake. What with the flowers, he frowned watching as Vlad got a knife and four plates from the side table.

"It has been quite a night," one of the men, said. "You're the best cook in town, Vlad."

Vlad didn't talk. She simply cut the cake into four slices and served it on four plates. She handed the plates to the men and smiled.

"Please, taste it."

Dimitri glanced at Lucian and frowned to see him tense.

Dimitri's gaze returned to the men eating the cake.

Two bites, three bites, he stepped back when the first one choked, giving a violent cough.

Vlad turned to look at him.

"These men, I treated them like my own family. I fed them, clothed them, gave them money, and educated their families. We worked well together. Until they decided to sell my cocaine to Caleb Barnes," she scoffed, shaking her head with a sneer. "I couldn't believe they'd dare to do that to me."

"Me," she growled.

"I'll go get the clean-up crew," Lucian said leaving the room.

The four men had gone silent. Slumped on the table in various morbid positions, Dimitri didn't think he'd look at a cake quite the same way again.

He met Vlad's gaze and she smiled at him.

"You understand our alliance now, don't you?" she asked. "I don't take kindly to betrayal, Mr. Sedlackov."

Yes, he'd gotten that quite clear.

"Good," she said with a happy clap. "Now, let's talk business in a more pleasant setting. I was pleased with your work with my money. I have a fresh shipment coming next week. I need your help to plan it. The cargo is very....delicate. I'd love to listen to your ideas on how to get it into Colston quietly..."

***

The sun was almost rising when Lucian dropped Dimitri at the Talon. Vlad was a woman he couldn't say no to. She'd kept him talking for hours. He was caught between awe and disgust at her intelligence and equal madness.

"Why is she called Vlad?" he asked Lucian before he opened the passenger door.

Lucian tapped his finger on the steering wheel.

"Her husband headed the Brotherhood. His name was Vlad. When he died, she simply took his place. Don't screw up, Dimitri. She's no lightweight."

"I didn't think she was," Dimitri answered as he got out of the car. "See you, Lucian."

Dimitri slammed the door closed and watched Lucian drive away. Looking at his car, he reached into his pocket for his keys...but then, his gaze strayed to Talin's door on the second floor.

***

Talin rolled over on his bed frowning at the banging in his head. It felt like he was going insane. He hadn't drunk too much last night.

Why was his head throbbing?

The banging persisted, and he lifted his head realizing the banging wasn't in his head but at his front door. Groaning, he searched for his phone under his pillows. When he finally found it, he peered at the time.

Five-thirty in the morning... _what was happening?_

Eyes heavy with sleep, barely conscious, Talin stumbled out of his bed. Scratching his jaw as he left his bedroom, he went down the corridor to the living room. Not bothering with any light, he demanded at the door.

"Who is it?"

His voice sounded rough to him. He tugged on his sleeveless t-shirt scratching his stomach.

"Talin, open for me," Dimitri's voice sobered him.

Talin opened the locks and opened the door. Dimitri stood with his hands braced on either side of his door. He looked tired, still in the suit he'd worn to dinner.

Gods, sinfully handsome was starting to take on a new meaning.

"Hey," he said.

Yeah, his thought process was off. His brain could only register the sight of Dimitri.

Dimitri stepped closer, invading his personal space. Talin's breath caught, and then Dimitri pulled him into his arms. Damn it, he loved how the man did that. Took possession of him with a simple grab...Talin moaned when Dimitri kissed him. He wrapped his arms around Dimitri's neck and a gasp escaped when Dimitri leaned and lifted him up into his arms. Talin wrapped his legs around Dimitri's waist.

"Close the door," Dimitri said roughly.

Talin pushed the heavy door closed and chuckled when Dimitri shifted him closer.

"This is a pleasant surprise," he said as Dimitri walked down the corridor to his bedroom. "Couldn't sleep? If you were going to come back at five in the morning, why did you leave?"

Dimitri pressed a kiss on his collarbone and took him to the rumpled bed.

"You smell good...warm."

"That's really nice to know after I've woken up," Talin said with a sleepy chuckle as Dimitri dropped him on the bed.

Lifting up on his elbows, he watched Dimitri take off his suit jacket and shirt. Dimitri's muscles rippled as he undid his belt and pushed down his trousers. Talin felt weak just looking at Dimitri. Imagining running his fingers over Dimitri's strong shoulders...he sighed in disappointment when Dimitri left his black boxer shorts on.

"What, you're stopping there?" Talin asked.

Dimitri moved to lie beside him, tugging the covers over them.

"I'll let you do the rest later," Dimitri said.

Dimitri wrapped his arms around him, and Talin let his hands rove over Dimitri's arms, his broad shoulders. He wrapped his arms around Dimitri, pressing their bodies close.

Dimitri buried his head in Talin's shoulder with a sigh.

"Let me hold you like this for a while, Talin. Just for a time."

Talin frowned. Dimitri sounded tired. Tugging the blankets higher, he rubbed Dimitri's back, offering comfort.

"Are you okay? Couldn't you sleep?"

"Not a wink," Dimitri said.

Talin pressed a kiss on Dimitri's shoulder and savored the feel of holding Dimitri in his arms.

"I got you, Dimitri."

***

**6**

Talin hesitated outside his bedroom door, his gaze on the breakfast tray he'd made. He'd burned the toast a bit, but it was edible. Pushing the door open, he entered the bedroom to find Dimitri sitting up. Ignoring his heart's little skip, Talin took the tray to Dimitri's side of the bed.

"I brought coffee," he said banging the tray slightly on the bedside table.

Dimitri helped him steady the tray. Once it was safe, Dimitri took his left hand.

"I hope you're not leaving me to disappear downstairs," Dimitri said.

Talin laughed.

"No, I called Lori; she'll handle opening the club."

"Good," Dimitri tugged on his hand until he sat on the side of the bed.

"You took my rose," Talin said shifting until he sat legs crossed on the bed facing Dimitri.

Reaching for the tray, he placed it on the space between them. He took Dimitri's cup of coffee and held it out.

Dimitri took the cup with a small shrug.

"You don't need black roses, Talin. I'll get you vibrant red ones if that's what you want."

"But, the black one was unique. I don't even know where it came from."

Dimitri pressed a finger on his lips.

"Don't worry about a dead rose, my dear. I'll get you a whole plant."

"And where will I put a rose plant?" Talin asked putting jam on Dimitri's toast. "I don't have a garden out there."

Dimitri nodded to the windows and the little balcony built in there.

"We'll put a flower pot there."

"What about when it snows?"

"We'll wrap it up." Dimitri grinned.

Talin shook his head.

"You have a solution for everything."

Dimitri nodded.

"That's right."

Talin scoffed.

"It gives you a big ego."

Dimitri bit into the toast with a small happy sigh.

"I want to eat breakfast with you everyday."

"I doubt that," Talin said applying marmalade on his toast. "You have Kat cooking for you."

"I'm a third-wheel in that house." Dimitri grinned. "She and Lukas have eyes for each other in the morning."

Talin laughed at that picture. He doubted Dimitri would ever be a third-wheel in any situation. His personality brought him up front and center.

"You don't believe me," Dimitri said.

"I think they both love you too much to make you feel like a third-wheel. You're whining," Talin said.

"Jeez, there's no joking with you." Dimitri sipped his coffee. "Still, I prefer having toast with you to any fancy breakfast."

Talin felt warmth burst inside him and he took a bite of toast to hide it. They ate in silence for a few minutes.

Talin reached out to wipe away toast crumbs caught on the corner of Dimitri's mouth. Dimitri took his hand and pressed a kiss on his fingers.

"What are you doing today?" Talin asked.

Dimitri sighed.

"I have to go to the marina. Lukas needs help with one of our charter boats. Something's wrong with the engine."

"You like working with engines. The day I went to your place, I found you working on a pump engine. Is that what you do all day?"

"I do a lot of things in a day," Dimitri answered.

"Things like what?" Talin asked, wanting to know all he could about Dimitri.

So far, all he knew was that the man had insomnia, and liked to sleep in Talin's bed.

Dimitri put his coffee cup on the bedside table.

"Lukas and I own the marina together, but he does the administrative work and dealing with customers. Kat helps but she has her restaurant to deal with. I work behind the scenes. I check the charter boats, do maintenance and if anyone needs help with their boat, I handle that. We offer warehouse space, so I make sure shipments are in order. My job gives me a flexible schedule and I get to work with my hands."

"And your men, those guys you hang with, what do they do?" Talin asked.

"Sean and Tomas help me," Dimitri said. "They handle all the warehouse problems which can be trying."

Talin met amused blue eyes.

"Satisfied?" Dimitri asked.

"Nope," Talin shook his head. "Where did you go last night? I saw your car in the parking lot before I fell asleep. You weren't in the club, I called Lori to ask."

"A friend picked me up," Dimitri said with a slight shrug.

"What friend?"

"Business friend," Dimitri said. "He had an emergency to do with a shipment and needed my help."

"Is that why you didn't sleep?" Talin asked with a frown. "Dimitri, you have to take better care of yourself. I know how it is to overwork."

"Don't worry about me," Dimitri said. "I don't sleep that much anyway. Besides, I slept the whole day yesterday."

"Still," Talin moved the tray to the bedside table.

Dimitri pushed the sheets away and moved closer, reminding Talin that he was still in his boxer shorts. They hadn't done anything beyond a few kisses and holding each other. Dimitri sunk his fingers into Talin's hair, tilting Talin's head back so that they could kiss.

All thoughts of what Dimitri did or didn't do disappeared. Dimitri tasted like coffee, strawberry jam and toast. Dimitri's tongue stroked his, Talin pressed closer, his arms moving up Dimitri's strong upper arms to his shoulders. He could kiss Dimitri all day. Their kisses were drugging, heated...he sighed when Dimitri broke away to trail kisses along his jaw to his neck.

His fingers sunk into Dimitri's mink black hair, and a moan escaped when Dimitri bit at the curve of his neck and shoulder.

"I've dreamt of holding you like this," Dimitri said sucking on the sensitive spot. "I can't believe it's finally happening."

"Why do you keep saying that? Am I really so unapproachable?" Talin asked leaning back to meet Dimitri's gaze.

"I—," Dimitri pressed a kiss on his jaw and let him go. "It seemed better to look at you from a far."

Talin sighed and got off the bed. "Well, seems you're still looking from afar."

"Why do you say that?" Dimitri asked in surprise.

"Nothing," Talin said, picking a knitted sweater he'd thrown over an armchair beside his bed. "I have no clue what we're doing, so—, it doesn't matter what I say."

Talin wore the grey sweater and tugged it over his t-shirt.

"Talin."

Talin tried... _he tried_...to fight that sexy voice, alas he was mortal and weak. Dimitri's low voice was tempting; it felt like expensive silk stroking his cock, arousal slammed him hard. He wanted...meeting pale blue eyes, he sighed, berating his body for wanting a man with secrets like Dimitri.

"What?" he asked.

Their gazes locked.

"I want in," Dimitri said, "all the way."

Talin forced himself to look away from Dimitri.

"Ah...well, if it was sex you wanted, you could have asked that first day," Talin said, trying to joke through the intensity of Dimitri's words.

He had no idea what to say. He didn't know if he could handle someone getting to know him.

Isn't that what Dimitri was implying here?

It had to be...he frowned.

"Sex is easy, I want more than that. I need it, Talin," Dimitri stated.

Dimitri got off the bed in a fluid motion and closed the distance between them with a few steps.

Talin couldn't help the gasp when Dimitri held his shoulders, turning him, so they faced each other. Unable to resist, Talin touched Dimitri's stomach, his fingers tracing soft hair dusting down to the waistband of black boxer shorts.

Dimitri ran his fingers through Talin's hair, stroking the long messy strands. Talin leaned into the touch. It was so new, yet so familiar: comforting, he let out a shaky breath and looked up to meet Dimitri's gaze.

"Can we take it slow?" Talin asked

His chest felt tight, fear creeping in at the thought of allowing someone in... _again_.

Dimitri's smile was slow, roguish...sexy...jeez, everything the man did linked back to sex.

Talin's cock hardened, pressing against his jeans.

"Whatever you want, Talin," Dimitri said leaning to touch his lips to Talin's, "as long as you let me have breakfast with you."

Talin chuckled.

"And have my bed for sleeping?" he asked.

"Yep," Dimitri said his fingers bunching in Talin's hair gently. Using the hold on his hair, Dimitri tilted Talin's head back, "for sleeping...and other pleasurable activities, hopefully soon."

Talin closed his eyes when Dimitri finally kissed him, this time leaving no doubt what type of pleasurable activities Dimitri wanted.

***

The trash pick-up truck showed up at around one o'clock. They were two days late. Talin stood at the back door watching them clear the trash area. He'd been worried the health officers would show up and find the trash area messy. Health officers were a pain...not to mention the fines...he sighed and stepped back into the building. He needed to call the removal company and straighten the schedule.

Instead of going to the main club floor where Lori was dealing with late deliveries, Talin went to his office. He'd spent the past thirty minutes compiling a list of potential waiters for hire. Settling behind his desk, his gaze fell on the card Detective James left him. He'd brought it down here by mistake.

Picking it up, he touched the number with a frown. Dimitri thought it was a good idea for him to keep the card. When he'd asked why, Dimitri had smiled and told him to let the detective know if Ken Luther showed up at the club.

_Dimitri._

Now there was a man with secrets.

Talin opened the top drawer of his desk and dropped the card inside, his thoughts firmly on Dimitri as they had been through the week. They'd only spoken for four days, and it felt like he'd always known Dimitri.

_It had to be the epic kisses_ , Talin thought with a smile, though the secrets intrigued him too.

Like last night, he'd glanced out the living room windows to see Dimitri's car in the parking lot. Talin wondered why Dimitri would leave his car in the parking lot when he'd need it to get to the marina. Then there was the Caleb Barnes saga, and the two men who followed Dimitri around. Then there was this morning...why had Dimitri looked so stressed when he'd shown up?

The questions were many, but then the kisses filled his thoughts and the questions rather took a backseat.

He was in lust with Dimitri's kisses.

Talin touched his lips and couldn't help smiling at the memory of Dimitri pressing him against the front door before he left two hours ago. He hadn't wanted that kiss to end. He'd instead wanted them to go back to his bed.

Dimitri, however, had broken the kiss, patiently held him until they both could breath easier, and then he'd left with a devastating smile.

_Damn Dimitri_ , he frowned, the man had insane self-control.

"Talin," an amused deep voice broke into his thoughts.

He glanced up to find a tall thin black man smiling at him.

"Carl," Talin said, pleasantly surprised.

Getting up, Talin walked around the desk to meet Carl and give him a tight hug. He laughed when Carl patted his back and tugged on his ponytail. Carl Brown was his oldest friend.

"I knocked twice, but you seem preoccupied," Carl said stepping back to study him. "I see smiles, visiting the land of the living again, Talin?"

Talin chuckled and playfully punched Carl's arm.

"It's great to see you, Carl. Did Terry kick you out of the house today? I haven't seen you in a while."

Carl laughed and moved to take a seat on the armchairs set before Talin's desk. Talin joined him, moving his chair so that it faced Carl.

"She's driving me crazy," Carl said, his voice soft, dripping with fondness.

Terry was Carl's wife. Talin had been Carl's best man at their wedding six years ago. They had one two-year-old boy they both doted on. Carl was madly in love with his little family. Happiness radiated from deep within. It brightened Carl's dark brown eyes as nothing else could.

Talin was jealous.

"You haven't come to visit the Turnip," Carl said studying him. "We worried. Terry asked me to come here and drag you out to lunch."

Talin smiled at the mention of Carl and Terry's eclectic bookshop. He missed that place; the couple had a knack of stocking the bookshop with the best of books. They'd let Talin name bookshop when they first opened it. Talin still couldn't believe Terry had agreed to call the bookstore the Turnip.

"That woman," Talin smiled. "She's so bossy."

"She worries about you," Carl said leaning forward, elbows on his knees. "Although, I have to say, you're not as depressing as you usually are. What's changed?"

Talin scoffed. "What are you talking about?"

"Secret smiles, happy eyes, hmm..." Carl grinned. "Anyone I know?"

Talin shrugged.

"Not really," he said not ready to mention Dimitri's name.

Carl gave him a knowing look and stood.

"Guess you're not ready to share. Come on then, I'm not taking no for an answer. We're going to the steakhouse down the street. We need to get some meat on them bones."

Talin gave the list of names on his desk a wistful glance.

Carl took his arm before he could launch any protest and led him out of his office. Talin barely grabbed his jacket on the way out before Carl closed the door.

It was wonderful to walk down the street with Carl. He listened to Carl talk about his son, and watching him grow. Carl talked about Terry, love in his every word. He'd forgotten what this was like, just listening...Carl could talk for hours...somehow it had always seemed like the best thing about Carl. He'd never needed to talk, Carl did it all...Talin just listened.

"How's your store, Carl?" Talin asked as they settled in their seats at the Steakhouse.

Carl picked up his napkin giving him a surprised look.

"Doing great, Terry ordered new graphic novels, you could come over and check them out."

"That sounds like a plan," Talin said studying the menu.

"Really?" Carl asked sitting back. "She's kept stuff for you for months."

"I'll drive to the bookshop later." Talin looked up to find Carl staring at him. "What?"

Carl took the menu away from him.

"Okay, what have you done with the real Talin?"

Talin laughed.

"I'm the same old Talin."

"No you're not," Carl shook his head. "You're definitely not the same Talin I've seen the past four years."

Talin held Carl's gaze for a moment, before he looked away.

The past filled the silence between them...too close...too hard...yet now; Talin took in a deep breath and let it out slow.

"I'm sorry," Carl said his tone regretful, "I've ruined it."

"No," Talin shook his head. "There's nothing to be sorry about. I-I checked out..."

Carl studied him, and then reached out to squeeze his hand.

"Don't think about it. I'm insanely happy to see the icicles melting. Please, let's go to the bookshop after this. It will be like old times."

Talin watched Carl pick up the menu, a small grin on his lips. He wondered why he'd never seen how much his self-imposed exile worried Carl.

"I feel like having barbecue short ribs," Carl said grinning at him. "What do you say?"

Talin laughed.

"Sure, definitely feel like getting sauce all over my face. Why not?"

Carl nodded and called their waiter.

****

Hours later, Talin drove back to the Talon from Carl and Terry's bookshop feeling happy. He'd strapped in a box full of new copies of fantasy graphic novels on the passenger seat. Terry knew his tastes well, and she'd kept the best titles for him. Glancing at the box, memories came back, happy memories. He'd always loved graphic art, the more conceptual the better. Carl and Terry had helped fuel that love through the years, encouraged him when he'd created it too. Thinking about his art skills brought back memories.

_Memories..._ the vault in his head clicked open.

_Gabriel._

Talin remembered afternoons in the sun, seated under a huge oak tree, the grass so green...gorgeous green, but not as gorgeous as Gabriel's green eyes. He remembered sketching those eyes, trying to put them on paper, and capture the light just right...but never quite getting it. Kisses under that tree, giggles of delight...followed by...emptiness.

On coming headlights blinded him, and Talin jerked his car to the side of the road, his foot heavy on the brakes. He came to a stop with a jerk as the driver behind him honked his irritation.

Glancing at the box on the passenger seat, Talin wondered when the past would stop hurting.

His cell phone buzzed. Glancing at the caller ID, he let out a soft sigh when he saw Dimitri's number.

"Where are you?" Dimitri asked when he answered.

"On the way back to the club," Talin said adjusting his seatbelt. "I went to see old friends. Are you at the Talon?"

"I stopped by to drop something off, you weren't there," Dimitri said. "Are you alright?"

Talin glanced at the box of graphic novels.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Are you coming over tonight?"

"Later," Dimitri said, his voice filled with promise.

Talin smiled. "I'll wait."

"Drive safe," Dimitri said then.

Ending the call, Talin placed the phone on its holder on the dash. Holding the steering wheel with both hands, he let out a steadying breath and eased back into traffic.

"Steady, steady...," he whispered.

***

Back at the club, Talin helped Lori clear tables for the night. It was almost three o'clock in the morning, Dimitri still hadn't shown up. Picking up the last stool, he overturned it on the table and stretched his arms above his head. His shoulder muscles complained and he dropped his arms.

"Did you have fun with Carl?" Lori asked as she filled out the daily forms. "I saw him drag you out of here earlier."

"Yeah," Talin said taking the rag he held to the counter. "I didn't realize I was neglecting them until I saw him today. Their son is walking and everything. It was surreal, I remember a small tiny baby who had to be carried with care."

Lori chuckled.

"Boss, you haven't noticed much these last few months. Working, working," she shook her head. "I guess you've turned on a switch in there. I can't wait for the new employees you're hiring. It will mean day offs."

Talin frowned. "You get day offs."

Lori scoffed.

"From where?" she asked looking around the empty club. "I'm pretty sure the bulk of the work has been between you and me."

Talin picked up the dirty rags and went around the counter to dump them in the washing machine. He put in the right amount of soap and started it.

"Dimitri came over earlier," Lori said as she put away the daily forms.

She went back to his office and brought back a package wrapped with delicate green netting. She placed the package before him with a wide smile.

"Unwrap it, I've been dying to see what's inside all night."

Talin undid the green string holding it all together, and the netting fell away. He grinned when he saw the small potted plant, the thorns unmistakable.

"A plant?" Lori asked.

She touched the earthenware pot with intricate designs on its surface.

"The pot is expensive. I don't get it."

Talin touched the leaves carefully.

"It's a rose plant."

"A rose plant?" Lori frowned.

Talin ignored her confusion and instead reached for the card tucked into the plant. He opened it and found Dimitri had written a note.

_For your balcony, water it everyday. D_

Talin placed the card on the counter and went to the sink. He picked up a beer mug and filled it with cold water. Lori gave him an amused look when he returned to water the plant carefully.

Twenty minutes later, he carried the box of graphic novels, with the rose plant carefully balanced on top, upstairs. Stopping at his door, he got his keys and unlocked the door. Ignoring the lights, Talin went into the living room to place the box on the coffee table.

He went back to close the door and turn on the lights. That's when he saw the white envelope on front door rug. Frowning, he picked it up, as he locked the door. Opening the envelope, he pulled out a picture with a note on the back.

_'Dimitri Sedlackov is dangerous. He's not what he seems.'_

"Well, that's ominous," he said under his breath turning the picture.

There was Dimitri holding a bundle of... _money?_

Talin frowned.

***

**7**

Dimitri fingered his cell phone in his pocket, fighting the urge to call Talin again. He wrapped his fingers around the black gadget in his pocket, his gaze on the dark water ahead. He let out a soft breath and forced his fingers to let go of the cell phone.

The lake was dark, t _he Anastasia_ silent, Dimitri stood at the helm waiting for movement from the other two boats they were expecting tonight. The waiting was always the most dangerous time.

His thoughts wandered to Talin. Dimitri had wanted to kiss Talin before coming out on this little excursion. He'd wanted a taste of the normal life Talin represented in his head.

_Normal,_ he frowned.

He didn't remember what normal meant. Perhaps normal defined what an individual saw everyday. For him, constant danger, deceit and death were normal, for Talin, hours spent taking care of his club would be normal. He'd loved watching Talin work at his desk this morning, loved sitting in Talin's living room watching the news. Dimitri wanted to share Talin's normal days. He just didn't know if Talin would want to share his.

"Thinking about Talin?" Lucian asked beside him.

Dimitri slammed the door closed on his thoughts, his shoulders tensing at the sound of Lucian's voice. They'd left the dock together. Lucian was on _the Anastasia_ to ensure the cargo exchange went smoothly. Lucian's presence made him edgy; it made Tomas and Sean wary.

"We're not discussing Talin."

"He's broken." Lucian sounded too certain. "I wonder if you know that."

"It's creepy the way you watch us."

"I'm letting you know that he's going to need your honest side, Dimitri."

Dimitri scowled, his fingers curling into tight fists. He could swear he heard a smile in Lucian's tone.

"You don't know anything about Talin," Dimitri said.

Swallowing down his anger, Dimitri refused to allow Lucian to upset him. He hated the thought of Lucian knowing about Talin, his gaze narrowed...no, he hated the thought of Lucian knowing more than _he_ did about Talin.

"You'd be surprised," Lucian said as a flash of light cut through the dark.

Dimitri started the engines.

"Concentrate on the job," Dimitri said. "Leave my personal life alone."

Lucian chuckled under his breath and moved to the navigational table.

"You're right, Sedlackov. It's not my business."

Dimitri glanced at Lucian's back as he bent over the maps they'd worked on earlier. Annoyed by Lucian's knowing comments, he increased the speed and wished this night would end faster.

***

Ten minutes later, Lucian was busy talking to the owners of the other boats while Dimitri, Sean and Tomas arranged four long crates on the deck of the _Anastasia_. The wooden crates were heavy, a tad too large compared to the others they'd carted before. Sean gave him a questioning look, when they noticed the lock on the last crate had fallen off.

Dimitri glanced back to where Lucian was still talking to the captain on the other boat. He turned to find Sean had lifted the lid on the crate slightly. They both suppressed gasps at the fine wood coffin inside the crate.

Tomas cleared his throat and Sean closed the crate.

"What do you think is in there?" Sean asked touching Dimitri's left arm.

Dimitri shrugged, aware of Lucian returning to the _Anastasia_.

"We'll check later." Dimitri promised as Lucian boarded their boat.

"We head back to shore," Lucian ordered. "We need to move fast, the other captain says the coast guard is close tonight."

Sean hurried to the helm turning the _Anastasia_ toward the marina. The ride back was quick, it always was, Dimitri thought, his gaze on the four crates in the middle of the deck.

_Did they all have coffins? What was Vlad up to now?_

Lucian was on his phone, calling Vlad to inform her of their progress.

Dimitri gripped the railing on his father's boat and fought the anxiety building inside him. He couldn't believe he could still feel anxious after all these years.

Sean docked at the old warehouse again. They used a lift to get the crates off the boat and into two black vans. Lucian and Sean would drive the first one. Dimitri and Tomas would follow Lucian's van.

Once the vans were loaded, Lucian tossed keys to Dimitri.

"Don't get curious, Sedlackov," Lucian warned. "Those crates have precious cargo. Think of your family."

"I do, everyday," Dimitri said, as he got into the driver's side in the second van.

Once they were in traffic, Dimitri allowed two cars to fill the space between him and Lucian's van.

Tomas jumped into the back of the van. They'd made sure to place the open crate in their van.

"My God, it really is a casket," Tomas said in shock. "I'd hoped we were wrong."

"Can you open it?" Dimitri asked his gaze on the black van ahead.

"Just a second," Tomas said.

Dimitri glanced back using the rear view mirror. Tomas was searching the seams of the casket with his fingers. A few minutes later, he found a catch, and the casket door hissed open.

Tomas gave a harsh gasp, losing his balance.

Dimitri fought the urge to stop the van. He couldn't, not with Lucian ahead of him. They were to keep moving until they reached their destination.

"Tomas," Dimitri said his tone sharp. "You need to tell me what you see."

"Boss," Tomas took in a deep breath.

"Tell me," Dimitri snapped.

"It's—," Tomas broke off, "Well, boss, there is a woman here."

"Is she dead?" Dimitri asked, tightening his grip on the steering wheel.

"I don't know. Fuck, she looks like she's sleeping."

Dimitri frowned. "Is she alive?"

"Yes," Tomas said after a moment. He knelt on the van floor and got his phone to take pictures. "Her pulse is very low. She has one of those hospital gowns. She's young, probably early twenties, no marks on her skin that I can see."

"She could be carrying drugs," Dimitri said.

"Probably," Tomas said.

Dimitri cursed under his breath when they reached a stop light and the two cars separating him from Lucian's van turned into one.

"Close the casket, move to the front," Dimitri said. "Lucian is watching us."

Tomas was quick. He was back in the passenger seat, before they got too close to Lucian's van.

"Do you think the other crates have caskets too?" Tomas asked as the lights changed.

Dimitri didn't doubt it.

Lucian turned left onto the warehouse street. Minutes later, they pulled into the parking lot of a well-maintained black warehouse. The loading-zone door opened, and Dimitri drove in after Lucian into a lighted empty warehouse.

As the warehouse doors closed, a dozen men emerged from an office in the corner of the large room; one of the men wore green scrubs.

_A surgeon,_ Dimitri thought.

The warehouse was a front; there had to be an underground facility. The lighting was different, definitely not the location they'd used for him to meet Vlad.

Lucian jumped out of his van, leaving Sean to open the back for the men approaching them. Dimitri gave Tomas a warning glance as they too got out.

"This crate is open," one of the men said as the crates were pulled out of their van.

Dimitri forced his body to remain relaxed. He met Lucian's gaze, and was surprised to find a knowing smile there.

"Yes, I'm aware," Lucian said to his men. "The captain says it was received that way from the original sender. We'll handle that later."

The men arranged the crates neatly on the warehouse floor. With quick precision, they opened the rest of the crates to reveal four identical caskets. Lucian moved from one coffin to the next, supervising as the men opened the caskets. There were four women in the caskets, all in their early twenties.

The doctor knelt next to the first casket, producing a syringe from his pocket that he injected into the red-haired woman. A moment later, her body convulsed and two of the men picked her up by the legs and arms. They carried her toward the office at the end.

Dimitri glanced at Lucian, as the doctor moved to the rest of the women. The warehouse was locked down, four men standing at random intervals with automatic weapons. Glancing at Sean and Tomas, Dimitri fought the urge to fight for the women convulsing after a mysterious injection from the doctor. His right hand touched the handle of the gun he'd slipped into his waistband.

Getting the women out would take a fight, but if he fought hard, he'd get the women to safety...disgust build as he watched the third woman carried into the warehouse office.

"Dimitri," Lucian said his tone full of warning. "We're finished here. Your car is outside. I had my men bring it earlier."

Dimitri caught the keys Lucian tossed at him.

"What's next?" he asked, his gaze on the last woman being carried out of her casket.

"I'll contact you," Lucian said as he followed the men to the warehouse office. "Try and get some rest—

A scream cut off Lucian's words, the sound of it so chilling it froze Dimitri's blood. The last woman was struggling in the arms of her captors. She screamed as she kicked and flailed, struggling to be free.

Dimitri removed his gun, and started to move toward her, intent on helping her. Sean and Tomas grabbed his arms. Before he could protest their interference, Lucian pulled out his gun and shot a bullet into the woman's head, silencing her struggle.

The two men carrying her continued their journey as though nothing had happened.

Dimitri froze.

"We need to go," Sean said pushing him toward the exit. "Boss, the car is outside, we need to get back."

Lucian glanced at Dimitri, shook his head and continued into the warehouse office. It took all Dimitri had not to run after Lucian, not to go in there after those women...instead he allowed Sean and Tomas to drag him outside into the cold air.

He took deep breaths as the warehouse doors closed behind them.

Sean took the keys from him, and went to get the car.

"There's nothing you could have done," Tomas said.

"It's no excuse," Dimitri said, taking in gulps of air. "We're becoming like them."

"There's nothing you could have done," Tomas repeated as Sean brought the car to them. "You need to get home, take a shower, spend time with Lukas and Kat," Tomas paused, "or maybe with Talin—,"

"No," Dimitri shook his head horrified at the thought of going to Talin, not now, not like this. He stared at the gun in his hand. He hadn't even used it. "Not Talin's, we need to get back to the marina."

Sean stopped the car, and Dimitri got into the front passenger seat, Tomas in the back.

"I'm thinking organ harvesting," Sean said, as he drove out of the warehouse. "The four women were the same age, very...preserved. The presence of the doctor means someone wants them handled with care."

"We are getting in too deep," Tomas noted. "Lucian had no problem killing that last woman before us."

"We've been in deep the moment we started carting fake money into shore, Tomas," Sean said with a bitter chuckle. "Dim, this is going to get worse; you can't lose it like that."

"Those women are innocents," Dimitri said tightly. "That last one, she was alert, we could have saved her. We should have done something."

"What? What could we have done?" Sean asked as he stopped at a light. "They were dead the moment they were placed in those caskets. You have family to think about, Dim. There's Kat, Lukas, and now Talin."

Dimitri ran fingers through his hair. That woman's scream rang in his head, so loud, so desperate...he closed his eyes.

_Jesus, when was it going to end?_

"It's only two o'clock in the morning, I'll drive you to the Talon," Sean said.

"No," Dimitri shook his head. "There is work to do at the marina."

***

Dimitri punched into the sandbag mounted on the basement ceiling harder, hoping to obliterate the scream ringing in his head. That horrible scream that wouldn't leave him alone...he punched harder into the bag.

It was six o'clock, on Friday morning. He'd gotten no sleep, again. Each punch into the heavy bag was a distraction from getting into his car and driving to see Talin.

Dimitri felt sweat drip down his brow. He ignored it, kept punching.

"It's dead now," Lukas said behind him. "You're going to rip the bag off its hold."

Dimitri gritted his teeth, powered through four more sets, and let out a harsh breath at the impact of the last punch.

Lukas came around to steady the punching bag. Dimitri met his brother's concerned gaze.

"Is it getting that bad?" Lukas asked.

Bad was nice compared to the person he was becoming. He was now this monster...this...he didn't have words to describe it.

"Here," Lukas held out his water bottle.

Removing his right glove, Dimitri took the bottle, tipping the bottle to draw in much needed water. He moved to sit on a bench by the wall, and wasn't surprised when Lukas came to sit beside him. Lukas took his left hand, removed the glove and got started rolling off the black bandages he used to protect his hands.

"You know, I hate boxing," Lukas said. "I used to wish you'd stop doing it so that we can play basketball. I envied the fact that dad used to come down here with you for hours. He didn't like basketball much, but he loved boxing."

Dimitri gave his right hand to his little brother when Lukas finished with his left.

"Why did you ask me to teach you boxing then?"

"Because it was the only sport you'd let me do with you," Lukas said with a chuckle.

"Lukas," Dimitri said with a sigh.

"It's alright," Lukas glanced at him.

"I had fun." Lukas smiled. "It allowed me to get to know you."

Dimitri ruffled his brother's hair.

"What's with this story?"

"I'm telling you the story because your boxing habits are also the only real way to tell your true feelings. I know you come down here when things are bad or good. Judging from the dark shadows under your eyes, I'm guessing that things are bad. So, talk to me, I'm here."

"I'm handling it," Dimitri said sipping his water. He looked away from his brother. "I—

Lukas touched his sweaty shoulder.

"We're protecting the family together, Dimitri. If you don't tell me what's going on, I'll go look for Tomas or Sean. Do you know two days of your dark mood is enough motivation to get them talking to me?"

Dimitri winced at the thought of Lukas knowing about the women he'd failed.

"Lukas, its better that only one of us gets dirty dealing with the Brotherhood, besides, Sean and Tomas know not to tell you anything. There's nothing to worry about."

"Lucian Pajari watches Kat's restaurant every night, he walks around our marina as if he owns it, and you dare tell me there's nothing to worry about. I'm not a child, Dimitri. I deserve to know. I understand you're taking risks—,"

"You understand nothing," Dimitri said getting up from the bench.

The woman Lucian had killed filled his thoughts.

Dimitri ran a hand through his hair in frustration.

"Trust me, Lukas, its better this way. I'm protecting you and Kat."

Lukas got up too.

"You've always been a stubborn bastard."

"Don't forget it," Dimitri said heading to the stairs leading up to the main floor of the house. "I'm going to get a shower, and then I'll be at the workshop all day today."

"Dimitri," Lukas called after him.

Dimitri paused long enough to look at his brother.

"You're not alone in this," Lukas said.

Dimitri gave his brother a short nod, and then hurried up the last two steps.

Lukas was wrong.

He'd never felt as lonely as he did now.

***

"Where do you think he is?"

Talin wiped down his coffee table, arranging magazines and piling them at the corner of the table. Grabbing the three coffee mugs he'd left there the past two days, he carried the rose plant into the kitchen.

"He could at least return one phone call."

Placing the plant on the kitchen table, Talin went to the sink and cleaned out the dishes that had accumulated. Cereal bowls, plates, mugs, and a pot he'd used to make oatmeal porridge. Rinsing the dishes, he placed them on the rack. Grabbing a dishcloth, Talin leaned on the counter and stared at the potted plant on his kitchen table.

"Maybe I should call him again. What do you think?" Talin asked the rose plant.

He wiped his hands on the dishcloth.

"No, what I should do is call St. Mary's psych ward, and admit myself for expecting an answer from you. I'm getting certifiable."

Pushing off the counter, Talin turned back to the dishes with a shake of his head. He had waited for Dimitri two nights, sitting in the armchair in his bedroom looking out the window like a love-struck teenager.

Putting away the dishes, Talin tried not to feel hurt, even rejected.

Dimitri was busy. He had the marina to handle. Maybe he'd been too tired after fixing all those boat engines, and moving crates in their storage warehouses, hell Dimitri might have decided to overhaul his car engine.

Hanging the dishcloth on its handle, his gaze returned to the rose plant.

All right, maybe he was going a tad crazy thinking about what Dimitri was doing.

Talin wiped his hands on his pajama pants. He left the plant on the kitchen table and went to the living room. Getting his cell phone from his desk, he dialed Dimitri's number again. Pushing his fingers through his hair, he paced to his bedroom, staring at the neat bed.

The call rang unanswered.

Talin stared at his phone.

The man wasn't answering his calls. Maybe, Dimitri's phone had fallen in the lake. The poor man was probably working out there on engines, without a cell phone.

Yep, that explained why Dimitri hadn't gotten any of Talin's missed calls.

Talin almost jumped when his cell phone buzzed in his hand. Disappointment flooded him when he saw Lori's smiling face.

"Yeah," he answered his gaze on his neat bed.

"Yeah to you too," Lori said. "The potential recruits are trickling in."

Talin could hear excitement in her voice.

"When do you think you'll come down from the tower?"

Talin sighed. "Give me a few minutes."

"Leave that downing mood up there, boss. This is a really good day."

Lori ended the call, and he threw the cell phone on his bed. He stalked into his bathroom and decided Dimitri could choke down the entire lake.

Half an hour later, Talin entered the main club carrying a bowl filled with the _Trubochki_ and the cookies from Katerina. He figured sharing them out would get them finished faster. There was no need to keep pastries that clearly didn't have lasting power.

Seriously, what was wrong with Dimitri?

What was wrong with stopping by if the cell phone was drowning in the lake?

He handed the bowl of pastries to Lori as she led him to a desk she'd set up for the interviews.

"Finally giving these up?" Lori said taking a cookie. "Mmm...they're really good. I see why you held on to them."

Talin sat on the chair beside her and picked up the first application.

"What's wrong now?" Lori asked.

Talin could feel her gaze on him. He didn't feel like talking about the insanity going on in his head.

"Let's get this done."

"Please, lighten up a bit," Lori said tugging his ear gently. "You'll scare the new recruits away."

Talin pasted on a smile and turned to her.

"Will that do?"

Lori laughed.

"At this rate I might need to hide your face. You look awful."

Talin rubbed a hand down his face.

"Didn't get much sleep," he said.

"Having fun with Dimitri?"

Talin sat back in his chair.

"He hasn't shown up for two days."

"What?"

Talin shrugged. "It happens—,"

"No wonder you look so down." Lori squeezed his shoulder. "You know, you can go over to his place too. Check on him or whatever...it's perfectly valid."

_Now why hadn't he thought of that earlier_?

Talin watched Lori bite into a cookie. He leaned over and kissed her cheek, surprising her.

"What's that for?"

"Nothing," Talin said with a grin, his mood lighter. "Let's do this."

***

Talin drove to the marina after the interviews. He had the windows down, letting in the cool air from the lake. Tapping his fingers on the steering wheel, his foot heavy on the gas pedal, Talin refused to think about how fast his heart was beating with excitement.

He'd missed Dimitri, missed his easy smiles, and the kisses.

Driving into the marina, he parked at the front office. He grabbed his keys, but left his leather jacket. It was two o'clock, and the afternoon weather was nice: sunny, but not too hot. Perfect September weather, he slammed the car door closed and stood staring at the lake for a moment.

"Talin!"

Talin turned to find Katerina walking down the steps from the marina's main office. She was carrying a wicker basket that looked heavy. Hurrying toward her, he took the basket and she kissed his cheek.

"You're late," she said with a wide smile. "I'd hoped you'd come sooner."

He smiled when she reached up to wipe lipstick from his jaw. Dark wisps of hair fell around her face, escaping her ponytail. She was pretty.

"I'm here now," Talin said happy to see her. Lifting the basket, he asked, "Where do you want this?"

"In my car," she said, walking around him to a blue jeep parked two spaces away from his car. She unlocked the jeep's trunk. "Sean and Tomas went fishing this morning. They brought more fish than we can eat. Do you want some?"

Talin barely restrained his grimace as he put the basket in her car. He loved eating fish, but the idea of cleaning fresh fish, and then cooking it...no thanks. He preferred his fish in cutlets from the supermarket.

Hoping to hide his squeamish side, he answered, "No, that's alright."

Katerina closed the trunk and turned to study him.

There was a way people could look at you, and it felt weird, but with Katerina, it was different. It felt right. Talin liked her scrutiny. Her gaze was kind, but not pitying. She saw more than he dared show, yet she didn't make him feel...vulnerable, instead, her gaze was reassuring.

"Dimitri is fixing something or other in his workshop," she said in a quiet tone. "He's been in there too long."

She pointed to the great white house behind the marina main office. "If you go in there, you'll find lasagna on a serving dish in the kitchen. I was going to go back and take him some. Now that you're here..." she smiled again. "You can do it for me, yes?"

Talin nodded.

"Good," Katerina said walking around to the driver's side. "Maybe you can change his mood too."

Talin watched her get into the car. He waved when she honked and then she was gone leaving him to his own devices.

Turning back to the path that led to the main house, Talin felt excitement course through him at the thought of seeing Dimitri. He hurried up the path, going to the red front door.

Dimitri's family home was old and spoke of deep roots. It was in the décor; the polished wood floors, and the old furniture that looked like it had belonged forever. It gave the place a welcoming feel.

It wasn't that hard to find the kitchen. He found the lasagna sitting on a warming pad on the counter. Katerina had left it in a glass platter wrapped in cling wrap, with a yellow stick note written, ' _Eat, Dimitri_.'

Talin took the platter, got a fork from the drying rack and went to the fridge. He got two bottles of water and left the kitchen through the backdoor. The workshop was behind the house. He went down the path Dimitri used the last time he'd been here.

That time he'd been too occupied with the feel of Dimitri holding his hand to notice the flower gardens. Someone took the time to tend to the riot of plants growing in a cultured wildness.

The door to the workshop was open and he entered without knocking. Tools lined the walls, each hanging in its place. The worktable was clean, no work-in-progress. So much for the billions of engines he'd imagined piled on it. Talin moved deeper into the workshop, only to pause when he saw another door that led into what looked like an office. He moved closer, hoping Dimitri wasn't too busy.

"The original deal stands," a voice he didn't recognize said.

"You don't have to remind me." Dimitri's tone sounded harsh, angry. "I've jumped into this with everything I have, and you know that."

"Then stop asking questions you don't want answers to," the unfamiliar voice said. "Follow orders, Dimitri, that's all we need from you."

The office door opened wider, and Talin froze. Heat suffused his face. He couldn't believe he'd been caught eavesdropping.

"Well, well."

Talin stared at the man who appeared dressed in an impeccable navy blue suit. He had blonde hair, looked finely polished, like a prince, but it was a disturbing kind of beauty. It felt cold.

"Talin," Dimitri's surprised voice drew his gaze away from the stranger.

Talin's heart jumped with joy. One look and he regretted every negative thought he'd had about Dimitri.

Compared to the cold prince, his Dimitri looked like a full-blooded gladiator. The dark beard on Dimitri's strong jaw called to his fingers, he needed to touch it, rub it, and feel it against his skin.

"Hey," Talin said.

"Nice to finally meet you, Talin," the cold prince said, his tone filled with amusement.

"You were leaving," Dimitri said.

"But it's good to be friendly," the cold prince said.

"Now," Dimitri's hard glare was unrelenting. "Go, Lucian."

Talin stepped aside to allow the man to pass him. He got a small smile from Lucian, before the man left in quick strides. Turning to Dimitri, his heart faltered when he saw the frown on Dimitri's face.

"Did-Did I come at a busy time?" Talin asked, looking around the empty workshop.

The frown disappeared and Dimitri smiled at him.

"No, not at all, it's good to see you, Talin."

Talin studied Dimitri's face. Dimitri looked tired, like he hadn't slept for days.

"You okay?" Talin asked.

"Yes," Dimitri moved aside to let him into the office. "Now that you're here, I'm great."

That answer had his heart skipping again. He lifted the platter and the water bottles.

"I brought you food."

Talin took the platter to the simple desk dominating the room. There were files where Dimitri worked, moving them aside carefully, Talin made space for the water bottles.

Dimitri came up behind him and placed warm hands on his shoulders. Talin closed his eyes, having missed that touch. Dimitri rubbed his hands down Talin's arms, and pressed a kiss on Talin's neck.

"You smell so good," Dimitri said his mouth against his skin. "I missed you."

Talin bit his lip afraid if he moved he might explode. "I called."

Dimitri wrapped his arms around him, hugging him from behind. Talin brought his hands up to touch Dimitri's strong arms. He melted back into Dimitri's strength, his heat.

"I know," Dimitri said, with a deep sigh.

Talin frowned, his eyes open, he turned his head slightly to look at Dimitri's dark hair.

"You know?" he asked.

Dimitri shifted slightly, enough to meet his gaze.

"You want the short version or the long version?"

"The short version," Talin said.

"I was going to call you back. I got swamped with work, and I couldn't get away." Dimitri pressed a kiss on Talin's jaw. "If I heard your voice just once, I'd have come running to you."

Talin chuckled. "That sounds made up, Dimitri."

"It's the truth," Dimitri said with a sigh.

Dimitri held him tight for a second, and then released him.

"I'm hungry."

Talin removed the cling wrap from the lasagna dish, and put the fork into the delicious looking pasta.

"Kat asked me to make sure you eat," Talin said as Dimitri sat on one of the chairs in front of the desk. Talin watched him tug it closer to the desk ready to eat. "She looked worried about you."

"She's always worried about me," Dimitri said with a small grin as he picked up the fork. "Where is yours?"

"My what?" Talin asked reaching for the water bottles.

"Your fork, Talin," Dimitri said looking up at him, "I'm not eating alone."

"I already ate."

Dimitri grabbed the second chair and tugged it closer to the desk, right next to him.

"Sit," he ordered, taking Talin's right hand and tugging until he sat down.

Once settled, Dimitri scooped a mouthful of lasagna with his fork, and held it out to Talin. Talin laughed at the idea of being fed. When Dimitri glared at him, he opened his mouth and took a bite. Dimitri nodded with approval, and then scooped a bite for himself.

They ate in silence for a while.

"Who was that man?" Talin asked when he'd had enough.

"Business associate," Dimitri answered giving him a small smile. "Why, do you think he's handsome?"

"He seemed cold." Talin sipped his water and watched Dimitri take a bite of his lasagna. "You didn't seem happy to have him here."

"I'm never happy to see Lucian," Dimitri answered, his tone hard.

It reminded him of the second reason he'd needed to see Dimitri.

Talin reached into his pocket and pulled out the photograph someone had delivered to his door. He placed it on the table, right beside the lasagna dish. Dimitri picked it up turning it over to read the note behind it.

"What is this, Talin?" Dimitri dropped his fork into the lasagna.

"I found it at my door," Talin said sipping his water, his gaze on the frown on Dimitri's forehead.

Dimitri stared at the picture, and then threw it on the pile of files in the corner. He picked up his fork and took a healthy bite.

"Are we going to talk about it?" Talin asked studying him.

He'd waited two days to ask.

Dimitri glanced at him. "I'm not sure we should."

"Why?"

Dimitri dropped the fork again and sat back.

"Talin," he started.

"I'm not naïve," Talin said quietly. "Don't forget I've seen you with Jon at the club and the rumors...with you and Caleb Barnes."

Dimitri met his gaze then, those pale blue eyes so captivating, Talin felt lost in them.

Clearing his throat, Talin looked down at the bottle he held.

"You said you wanted in, all the way," Talin said. "Well, the same goes for me."

"Talin—

"We need to be on the same page, Dimitri," Talin insisted, cutting him off. "I won't speculate and guess what you're doing with your life. Someone wants to keep us apart. If you're not ready to share with me what's going on, then tell me to leave right now. Make this easy for both us."

Dimitri wiped a hand down his face. "I don't want to tell you, Talin."

"You don't want to—," the pain in his chest was unexpected.

Talin pressed a hand into his chest, hoping to alleviate it. Did this mean that Dimitri wanted him to leave?

_Didn't want him..._

"I thought—

"I want to protect you," Dimitri said.

Dimitri reached out to take his hand.

"I didn't ask for your protection."

Talin fought the urge to tug his hand out of Dimitri's hold like a petulant child. If this wasn't going further, then leaving was best. He could pine away at the club until he got over Dimitri—

Talin got up ready to leave. He wouldn't survive if Dimitri asked him to leave.

"My family is _Bratva,"_ Dimitri said, tightening his hold on Talin's hand.

Talin sat down hard, meeting Dimitri's gaze as Dimitri elaborated.

"Russian Brotherhood."

***

**8**

"My family is _Bratva_ ," Dimitri repeated when Talin just stared at him.

Talin tried to tug his hand out of Dimitri's tight hold, the gesture instinctive, but Dimitri held tight.

He was afraid if he let go, Talin might leave him.

What was he thinking?

Of course, Talin should leave.

Wasn't that why he'd tried to stay away from Talin two days in a row?

He'd spent hours fixing the marina charter boats, handling incoming warehouse shipments, doing paperwork and shocking Lukas in the process. All of it, he'd done it to stay away from Talin. He'd even come up with specific reasons why he needed to let Talin go.

Then, when he'd seen Talin standing at his office door staring at Lucian, all his reasons had gone out the door. Add on the picture from Lucian's warehouse, he sighed...somehow the truth seemed an easier route to take.

"Talin?" Dimitri prompted when Talin kept silent. Squeezing the slender fingers he held, he asked, "Do you understand what I'm trying to tell you?"

Talin blinked, looking at him as though for the first time.

"Yes," Talin said a frown creasing his smooth forehead. "Mob, gang, band of thieves, I know what _Bratva_ means, Dimitri. Why did you tell me?"

Talin got up forcing Dimitri to let go of his hand.

"Why did I tell you? Is that all you want to say?"

"Why, Dimitri?" Talin demanded his hands at his hips. "Why did you tell me?"

"Because I need you."

"What?"

Dimitri looked away from Talin.

"I—

"No," Talin cut him off, his tone harsh. "Dimitri, please don't tell me anymore about needing and wanting. If you cared for me at all, you'd never have told me this."

"Talin," Dimitri got to his feet, pushing his chair back.

Talin held up his right hand as though to stop him.

"I can't know this, Dimitri. I just can't."

"Talin."

Dimitri took a step closer to Talin.

Talin turned and rushed to the door.

Panic had Dimitri running after him. He slammed his hand on the door as Talin opened it. The door slammed closed, and he used his body to trap Talin against the door.

"Let me out."

"No." Dimitri braced his hands against the door. "If you leave, you're never coming back. I can't take that."

Talin pressed his forehead against the door.

"You're not going to do this to me."

Dimitri buried his face in Talin's loose hair and took in a deep breath. The scent of mint and lavender filled his nostrils. Dimitri closed his eyes cursing his inability to walk away from Talin.

"Step back, Dimitri," Talin said.

"Not until you tell me you're going to stay and listen to what I have to say."

"There's always a valid story," Talin said, his tone dripping with aversion. "Tell me Dimitri, have you killed someone recently?"

Dimitri dropped his hands away from the door. He couldn't help thinking about the woman in the warehouse. The other three were probably dead as well.

"That's what I thought," Talin said interpreting his silence for a yes.

Dimitri stepped back in shock, and Talin opened the door.

"I'll see you around."

Talin didn't look back as he walked out of his office.

***

_"Fuck_ ," Talin cursed, punching the steering wheel.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a stick of nicotine gum. He removed the wrap, put it in his mouth, and chewed furiously. Changing the gears on his Dodge Charger, he turned North on Lakeshore blvd. He didn't want to go back to the club yet.

Dimitri's news...argh...Dimitri's fucking truths pissed him off.

"What's up with you, karma?" Talin increased the speed overtaking a slow moving sedan. "You had to have the last laugh, didn't you?"

He punched the steering wheel when she didn't answer him.

Not that he'd expected an answer that would be crazy.

Seriously _, Bratva_ , of all things to tangle with...,

" _Shit,_ Dimitri," Talin said with a soft sigh.

***

An hour later, Talin drove into a secluded property in the quiet Seven Hills suburb. The garage doors opened the moment he drove up to the three-story whitewashed house. Turning off the engine, Talin sat in his car for a full minute before he got out and slammed the car door closed.

Talin walked up to an inner door that led into the main house. He paused to remove his shoes and slip on sandals before he entered a darkened corridor. Unlike Dimitri's family home, this house was furnished with ultra modern tones. The furniture designs clean-cut, almost clinical.

The strains of Italian opera led him through the maze of corridors, up winding stairs to the third floor, and down a wide corridor to open double doors. The closer the music got, the faster his heartbeat. Talin clenched his fists as he stepped into a richly decorated library, the music too loud, he winced as he stopped to stare at the man standing on a ladder arranging books on a floor length bookshelf.

"Music off," he said, and smiled when the opera stopped.

The man on the ladder turned to look at him.

A stab of irritation nagged at Talin when the man returned to his books, sliding in each one carefully.

"You're going to go deaf listening to music that loud," Talin said walking to an old antique love seat in the middle of the room.

He stretched out on it, and arranged one of the throw pillows under his head. He paused when he saw the domed ceiling. There was a half-finished painting of a green landscape.

"I see you've taken up art."

Folding his arms against his chest, he stared at the painting, a dark swirl of emotions flowing through him.

"What brings the Master home?"

"I asked you not to call me that. Use my name, Raphael."

Raphael let out a suffering sigh before he climbed down the ladder. Dressed in pajama pants, a white t-shirt, with an old burgundy sweater over it all, he looked well, happy.

"Talin," Raphael said giving him a mocking bow, "Talin Sato, happy?"

Talin shook his head, refusing to be charmed by smiling green eyes and that face that looked so much like Gabriel Yun.

"I'm not home."

"You are," Raphael said, his arms wide to indicate the large room and extensive library. "This is your home, Talin. It hurts me that you refuse to acknowledge that."

"Please don't be dramatic."

Talin closed his eyes.

He heard Raphael move closer. Suddenly cool fingers swept through his hair.

"You look well," Raphael said.

Talin opened his eyes to look at Raphael.

Raphael sat on a stool close to the love seat.

"Do I?" Talin asked.

Carl had said the same thing too. He didn't know what had changed in the past week to warrant the comments. All he'd done was worry about Dimitri Sedlackov, and it turned out there was cause for worry.

He frowned.

Raphael rubbed his forehead with a roughened thumb.

"What's on your mind?"

Talin shifted on the seat so that he faced Raphael. There were days he'd spent hours lying here, watching Raphael arrange books on the vast shelves around the room. Those days when the world hadn't made sense, Raphael had kept him grounded.

"Talin," Raphael said in a soft tone.

That voice, so like Gabriel's, he wanted to close his eyes and imagine Gabriel again. It was so easy. He'd done it before. Raphael and Gabriel were identical twins. They had the same green eyes, same height, the same smile, the same long dark hair, and same angelic graceful features.

Talin wondered if Raphael kept his hair long because Gabriel had.

"You're thinking about Gabriel. Are you still wishing I was him?" Raphael asked.

The man was so keen at reading him.

"Why do you think that?"

"I've rubbed this frown, trying to take it off your forehead for the past six years. I'd hoped you'd stopped the wishing by now."

Raphael let out a soft sigh.

"Guess I should stop wishing too. My brother—

"Is dead," Talin said. "I know. I know that, Raphael."

"First time you've ever said it to me." Raphael frowned studying him closely. "You've always tried to avoid that truth with me. Why?"

It had hurt too much to think of Gabriel in a grave, while his twin brother who looked so much like him, lived.

"We're the only two who knew Gabriel. The only ones who still remember him," Talin said, his voice heavy with sadness. "I-I didn't want to—

"You'll never forget him, I know that." Raphael stroked gentle fingers through Talin's hair. "You've worked so hard not to forget him, Talin, you've neglected to live. Isn't that why you've come here? You're trying to remind yourself why you need to keep your heart dormant."

Talin chuckled.

"I think you're reading too many psychology books."

"Regardless, I'm right." Raphael pinched his cheek before he got up and paced to the wide windows showing off the backyard. "In this world, I'm the only one who knows you best, Talin. I know what you've been, what you've done, what you are now..."

Talin sighed and shifted to his back, staring at the ceiling above.

"But, I think something has broken in to that wall you've built around your heart. What's changed?" Raphael asked then.

Talin stared at the unfinished painting on the ceiling, thinking of the other man who'd known every part of him. His thoughts racing back, so far back, his heart slammed against his chest. The sound of Gabriel's laugh filled his head and he closed his eyes, remembering the man who'd filled every part of his soul...

~*~*~*~

Pain took precedence for a moment, taking away the present.

All he could think about was Gabriel; all he could remember was Gabriel. The beautiful man he'd loved all his life. They'd grown up together in New York, neighbors in Manhattan.

_Upper East Side brats_ , he thought now, spoiled to the max.

Raphael and Gabriel's parents had traveled most times, Talin had never gotten a chance to meet them. The Yun family was old money, with holdings in various Asian countries that required constant attention. Being so busy, the Yuns had gotten a butler to stay with their twins in New York, hoping to give them the best schooling possible. T

That was how they'd met: at the Brookside Academy. They'd made a formidable trio through their tenure at Brookside, but that wasn't what filled Talin's mind now. The love that bloomed between him and Gabriel, that was what filled his mind.

Gabriel's strong, outgoing personality, his elegance and his charm had drawn Talin like a moth to open flame.

Born an only child in the Sato family, Talin lived a coddled life. His mother couldn't get anymore children, so she'd watched over him every second. If it weren't for Gabriel, he'd probably have spent his school years locked in at home with his mother.

Gabriel charmed Miaka Sato. He had gotten her to allow Talin to come out and play.

The play turned into more in high school. By college, Talin and Gabriel had become inseparable. They'd rented a loft in Ithaca, as they'd both joined Cornell, Gabriel for business, Talin for fine art. Their relationship had grown deeper.

Gabriel was his first lover, his best friend, his life.

Talin couldn't remember wanting anything more than having Gabriel close to him.

When Talin turned twenty-one, his father had come to see him at the loft he shared with Gabriel. That day, Talin begged his father to let him stay with Gabriel instead of joining the family business as he'd been slated to do since birth. Gabriel had sat with him, holding his hand as they cajoled and begged Kazui Sato to let Talin live his own life.

They'd lobbied for months after that, finally wearing down Kazui to a simple deal.

Talin would promise to make something of himself. As long as whatever he build was running, then Kazui would consider getting someone else to run the family enterprises. If Talin failed, then he was to join Kazui Sato without any complaints.

Talin had jumped on the deal, excited at the prospect of spending his life with Gabriel. When they graduated from Cornell, Talin and Gabriel returned to New York City, moving in with Raphael. And for seven years, they'd lived the dream: a happy ever after like no other, until one afternoon in the middle of summer.

Talin remembered that Friday afternoon like it was yesterday. Each time wondering what he could have done different. What would have made Gabriel stay with him in the bathroom, not answer that call, not head downstairs...the memory replayed in his head for the millionth time. The memory so clear.

" _Talin," Gabriel Yun said. "Where are you?"_

Talin smiled, making deliberate strokes on the wall with his paintbrush. He bit his lip to keep from calling out. He wanted Gabriel to find him.

" _There you are," Gabriel said a minute later. "I've looked all over for you. Why are you hiding—?"_

Talin smiled because he knew why Gabriel had stopped.

" _Do you like it?" Talin asked placing his brush on the palette on the floor._

He stepped back to study the landscape he'd painted, a lush green field with one sole oak tree in the middle. Under it was Gabriel lying on the grass, his hands under his head as he stared at the sky. Beside Gabriel, Talin sat staring at Gabriel, arms locked around his knees.

Gabriel took a step closer to the painting.

" _It's beautiful."_

" _It's still wet," Talin said with a laugh moving to take Gabriel's left hand._

He pressed a kiss on Gabriel's knuckles.

" _I love it." Gabriel turned to him then, so tall, so elegant, Talin felt his heart skip when Gabriel pressed a happy kiss on his lips. "I love you."_

Yes, his heart still jumped in violent happiness even after years of hearing Gabriel say those words to him.

Gabriel chuckled and rubbed a finger over his cheek.

" _You have green paint on your nose."_

Talin blushed and would have reached up to wipe it off, but Gabriel stopped him. Instead, he pressed a kiss on the spot.

" _You heal me, Talin. In ways I didn't even know existed, do you know that?" Gabriel asked. "I don't like it when you disappear on me."_

" _I wanted to surprise you," Talin said, pressing closer to Gabriel's warmth._

He'd wanted to add something special to Gabriel's library. They'd finally managed to build the shelves Gabriel wanted. The books they'd accumulated for years neatly arranged in deep mahogany bookshelves in the large library. The windows treated with tint to protect the books from direct sunlight. The walls had seemed bare after the new redone shelves. Adding the painting on the back wall added color. He'd have to visit the gallery and see if he could find a few pieces for the rest of the walls.

Gabriel pulled him into his arms, holding him tight.

" _I love what you've done with this place. I want to stay in here and forget the world."_

" _How was your meeting with Pajari Industries?" Talin asked, resting his forehead on Gabriel's shoulder._

" _Informative," Gabriel said, he squeezed Talin's shoulders before he stepped back and took Talin's right hand with his left. "Come on, we'll go take a shower together."_

" _The paint—_

" _We're home alone. No one will touch your paint." Gabriel tugged his hand, leading him out of the library._

They went down a short corridor and headed downstairs to the second floor of their home.

" _Are you going to work with them?" Talin asked, when they entered the master bedroom._

Gabriel tugged Talin's t-shirt, removing it. "I'm thinking about it."

" _Gabriel."_

" _Our business has to evolve. The deal Ilia Pajari is offering will benefit our stores."_

" _But he's—," Talin broke off and stopped Gabriel from unbuttoning his jeans. "You know what he is. Please don't do this."_

" _Baby, you don't understand. Pajari Industries is offering us high-end engine parts. Their products are original quality at wholesale price. We're going to make a ton of money."_

Talin pushed Gabriel's hands away from his hips.

" _You're the one who doesn't understand. Ilia Pajari's family is in the mob. All our friends know that. Any deal you make with Ilia will implicate you in the end. Why is money the only thing you think about day and night?"_

Gabriel's green eyes turned stormy.

" _That money keeps this house and our lifestyle running. And you're wrong, I think about you too."_

" _What if I said I didn't want the money?" Talin asked. "Huh? What if I asked you to stop, would you do it, Gabriel?"_

" _Baby," Gabriel said. "What's gotten into you?"_

_Fear,_ _Talin wanted to say._

_He loved Gabriel so much; if anything were to happen to him...he shook his head. He'd heard rumors about Ilia. Most of their friends thought the Pajaris were_ _Bratva_ _. The thought of Gabriel tangling with that left him with a bad taste._

" _Nothing, I'm taking a shower," he said._

" _Alone," he added when Gabriel started to reach for him._

" _Damn Talin," Gabriel whined. "Why do you do this to me?"_

Talin slammed the bathroom door closed on Gabriel's handsome face. He leaned on it and let out a soft breath.

" _Please don't be angry with me," Gabriel said on the other side. "I can't stand it when you're mad at me, Talin."_

Talin closed his eyes.

" _Alright, I'll talk to Raphael. I'm letting you know that it's ridiculous to refuse a deal from a whale like Pajari. He has factories across the globe; he wants to collaborate with us without a fuss. This is insane._ _You_ _drive me insane, Talin."_

Talin opened his eyes waiting for Gabriel to cave.

" _Fine, I'll do it for you." Gabriel let out a frustrated sigh. "I'll let Ilia go and find someone else. Now let me in."_

" _Promise me," Talin said._

" _Talin," Gabriel said._

" _You have to say it." Talin pushed._

" _I promise, all right. I won't work with Ilia and his alleged_ _Bratva ties_ _."_

Talin smiled because Gabriel had never broken a promise to him, ever. Relief flooded him.

" _Now will you let me in?" Gabriel asked._

Talin's smile widened and he pushed off the door. Unlocking it, he frowned when Gabriel's cell phone rang.

Gabriel ignored the call, reaching for Talin to take his mouth in a hungry kiss. Talin clung to Gabriel's shoulders, heat rising as he gave back as good as he got. God, he loved Gabriel. Gabriel explored his mouth, stroking his tongue with his.

The phone persisted and Gabriel broke their kiss with a groan.

" _Ignore it," Talin said dusting kisses along Gabriel's clean-shaven jaw. Gabriel smelled delicious, like spice and sunshine. "I'm so hard right now. I need you."_

Gabriel scraped his teeth on Talin's neck, making Talin hiss in pleasure. Gabriel sucked on the spot to ease the sting.

The phone started ringing again and Talin sighed when Gabriel pulled it out of his pocket.

" _It's Raphael," Gabriel said. "I have to take this."_

Talin sighed when Gabriel let go of him. Unbuttoning his jeans, he gave Gabriel a wicked teasing smile.

" _Hurry up. I'll leave the shower door open."_

Gabriel groaned, his hot gaze on Talin who'd removed his jeans and was now naked. Talin stroked his hard length then turned and walked into the bathroom.

Gabriel answered his twin brother's call with a growl.

" _Raphael, you'd better have a very good reason for calling me."_

Talin laughed and entered the shower stall. He stood under the hot shower, letting the water slide over his heated skin. He hoped Raphael would hurry, and there wasn't anything serious. Reaching for his shampoo, Talin started to dump some on his hair when he heard a thump.

Talin paused.

" _Gabriel?" he called out._

When there was no answer, he turned off the shower.

" _Gabe?"_

Returning the shampoo bottle on the shelf, Talin got out of the large glass shower stall. Taking a blue towel from a rail by the door, he wrapped it around his waist and went out into the bedroom.

Talin frowned when he didn't see Gabriel. An uneasy feeling compelled him out of the master bedroom. His feet cold on the tiled corridor floors, he passed two guest bedrooms, before he reached the landing

" _Gabriel?" he called again as he went down the stairs._

He almost tripped over Gabriel as he turned to go down the last flight of stairs to the living room. Gabriel lay on his stomach on the steps. Blood...Talin fell to his knees, his hands moving over Gabriel's back.

" _Gabe!" Talin started to move Gabriel, hoping to get him on his back. "Oh God, I'm not supposed to move you. Gabriel, tell me what hurts."_

" _Ta-alin," Gabriel coughed, more blood spilling on white tiles._

The sight of it shaking Talin to the core, he reached for Gabriel's shoulders and turned him on his back. The bullet wounds on Gabriel's chest looked unreal. Talin touched one with shaking fingers. A sob escaped as blood seemed to seep into the green shirt Gabriel wore.

" _Oh God," Talin met Gabriel's eyes. "Stay with me. Baby, stay with me...I'll get help. I—," Talin looked around him, his hands pressed against Gabriel's chest, trying to stop the blood. "I need to..."_

~*~*~*~

Talin sat up on the loveseat, jerking himself out of the memory. His chest felt tight. He pressed his right hand into his chest hoping to ease the ache. The pain didn't go away, it just didn't. Time only made it finer, made him wonder what he could have done different that day. He'd hesitated too long, moved too slowly.

"Talin," Raphael was by his side in a second. A comforting hand rubbed his back.

"Deep breaths," Raphael advised. "Take them slow, and deep."

Talin took in a deep ragged breathe, his fingers bunching the fabric of his t-shirt.

"You did what you could, Talin. There's nothing more you could have done."

"It wasn't enough," Talin said, his eyes stinging with tears he couldn't shed anymore.

"You did what you could." Raphael repeated sitting beside him. Talin held back a sob when Raphael pulled him into his arms and hugged him tight. "I'm telling you to listen to me this once."

Talin closed his eyes tight, burying his face into Raphael's sweater. It smelled like Gabriel, the memory of that scent stored away in his head.

He clung to Raphael then because the memory of that scent was fading.

Replaced by the maddening, enticing one: Dimitri's scent and Dimitri's laugh, his smile, Talin shook his head.

"I met someone," Talin confessed into Raphael's shoulder. "Someone who's in more trouble than Gabriel ever was, Raphael, karma is playing a rude one on me."

Raphael held him.

"Is it something small or major players?"

" _Bratva_ ," Talin said, the word coming out in a soft gasp of air.

Raphael stiffened, and Talin moved out of his arms. Getting up, Talin ran fingers through his hair and looked around the library. The books on the shelves were the same ones he'd once arranged in Gabriel's library.

"Is it the same group you were looking for?" Raphael asked, his tone sounding hopeful.

Talin looked at Raphael then.

"I'm not doing that anymore. I haven't looked for years, Raphael. Living has been hard enough."

Raphael scoffed.

"You're talking to me, Talin. Don't lie to me. I know why we moved to this godforsaken state. Why you decided to give up everything and live in that horrendous club you own. You were looking for the people who killed Gabriel."

"I put that search to rest the moment I paid for that club," Talin shouted.

"You mean you pushed it aside," Raphael said, getting to his feet, his green eyes accusing.

"I had no choice," Talin said, turning away from those eyes.

He felt guilt riding through him every time he came here. Maybe that's why he'd needed to come today, to remind himself why he needed to stay away from Dimitri and organized crime. It brought out the worst in him.

"Talin?"

"I have to go."

Talin turned to head to the door, but Raphael grabbed his left elbow.

"Why did you come here? Who is this person you've met?"

"I don't want to talk about him."

"Well fuck that, you have no choice." Raphael snapped. "I can't take living like these anymore. We need to figure out what we're going to do with the rest of our lives, Talin. Gabriel left you responsibilities—

"He's not here," Talin said in a quiet broken voice.

"You're right, he's not. But you and I are here," Raphael reminded him. "You're not dead, Talin. You're alive."

Talin tried to tug his arm out of Raphael's hold.

"I don't know what to tell you."

"Why did you stop looking for them?" Raphael demanded. "Why do you choose that club over Gabriel's revenge? Huh?"

Talin met stormy green eyes.

"Chasing down the Gabriel's murderers cost me my sanity, Raphael. By the time I landed at the Talon, I didn't care if I died finding them, and you know that. You know what I'd become. I'm in a good place now. Leave it alone."

"Do I have that Tina Reyes to thank for this new attitude?" Raphael asked then.

Tina Reyes was the woman who'd owned the Talon before Talin. She'd sold the club to him a year after they'd met. She'd wanted to retire to a sunny state, and he'd helped make it happen. Talin owed her his life. She'd literary pulled him out of the gutter behind the club.

Talin had woken up on her couch with a smashing headache. He was surprised to see a middle-aged woman sitting on the coffee table holding a bottle of tequila. She smiled at him when he sat up.

_"Alright, young man, you have two choices," she said. "I give you this bottle, you drink until you drown, or I get you a cup of coffee and we talk. Make a choice."_

He smiled now remembering Mrs. Reyes. She was the craziest woman he ever met. Her kindness saved him.

"I can't go back there," Talin said now. "I'm sorry, Raphael."

"What about this person you've met?" Raphael let go of his arm. "Are you going to ignore their fate?"

Talin winced at the thought of Dimitri under the _Bratva'_ s mercy. He shrugged refusing to know more about Dimitri's situation.

"He walked into it with his eyes wide open. He'll walk out."

"You're so cold," Raphael said. "You're not the man my brother loved."

"You're right." Talin headed to the door. "That man died when Gabriel did, Raphael. You're always forgetting that."

***

Raphael Yun watched Talin drive off their property with a grimace. He got his cell phone from his pocket and pressed one. The call was answered after one ring.

"He knows about Dimitri," Raphael said, "but he's going to walk away. I don't want that to happen."

"What do you want to do?"

Raphael turned to stare at the love seat where Talin had sat a few minutes ago.

"I want Talin back in the game. Get Dimitri in trouble, something harsh. Talin cares for the man; he won't stay away with Dimitri in danger. Do it fast. I'm tired of this town. I need this shit to end now."

"You got it."

Raphael ended the call and looked up at the dome. He'd been trying to repaint the landscape Talin had put in Gabriel's library, but it wasn't working out. Touching the sweater he wore, he let a sigh escape and hoped Talin would forgive him for this.

***

Talin got back home late. Instead of going to the club, he opted to head upstairs to his loft. His head hurt, it had been a longer day than he'd expected. He'd spent the last two days freaking out about Dimitri not showing up. Now that he knew what Dimitri was, Talin shook his head as he climbed the stairs, he felt like an idiot.

He unlocked his house, careful to check the welcome mat in case he'd gotten another mysterious visitor. There were no envelopes or black roses in sight so he locked the door.

"You're home," Dimitri said as Talin turned on the living room lights.

"Damn it, Dimitri," he cursed under his breath when he saw Dimitri seated on his favorite couch. "I really need that key back now."

Dimitri got to his feet.

"Where have you been?"

"What?"

Talin tried not to be distracted by how good Dimitri looked. His navy blue shirt was unbuttoned to his chest, and the black slacks he wore hugged his powerful legs to perfection. Dark hair a wavy mess on his head, as though Dimitri had ran his fingers through it, messing it up.

Talin looked away from Dimitri to keep his sanity.

"Where the hell were you, Talin? Do you know how worried I've been?"

"Worried?" Talin scoffed moving to drop his car keys on the coffee table. "If you were worried about me, you should never have talked to me, Dimitri. You should never have come in here and told me how much you like me. You should never have kissed me."

"Talin," Dimitri said taking a step closer.

Talin put his hands on Dimitri's chest, holding him away.

"I don't think you should be here. You should leave right now, and give me back my key."

"Talin, please," Dimitri said, his tone cajoling, the sound of it tore at Talin's heart. "Please listen to me."

"I don't want to know why you chose to join them," Talin said shaking his head. "I can't know, I can't—, please don't—

Dimitri pulled Talin into his arms, holding him tight.

"I'm sorry for pulling you into this, but I can't walk away, not now anyway."

"Why not?" Talin asked against Dimitri's strong shoulder.

"Because," Dimitri sunk his fingers into Talin's hair. "I can't leave you exposed. They know you matter to me."

Talin closed his eyes. He wanted to lie and push Dimitri away. Tell him he didn't care, but—

"You're being cruel to me."

"I know," Dimitri said. "You have to let me, Talin. Trust that I'll look out for you."

"That doesn't mean much," Talin said shaking his head.

"I mean what I say," Dimitri said, his voice sending thrills down Talin's back, weakening his resolve. "Will you hear me out?"

Talin clung to Dimitri's shirt. He breathed in Dimitri's scent, and felt the wall he'd managed to build at Raphael's crumble. The thought of Dimitri hurt...he let go of Dimitri's shirt.

_God, what was wrong with him? Why couldn't he become harder?_

"Yeah," Talin said in a whisper. "Okay."

Dimitri breathed out a relieved sigh.

"Great, come with me."

"Huh?" Talin frowned stepping back. "I just got home."

"I know," Dimitri said, not letting go of Talin. Instead, he turned Talin around and marched him to the door. "Trust me."

Talin gave him a skeptical glance, and Dimitri pressed a kiss on his forehead.

"If you don't like what you see and hear, I'll give your key back."

***

**9**

Dimitri drove to the marina. Talin sat in the passenger staring out into the dark, the streetlights casting shadows on his features. Dimitri wished he could read minds, and then he'd know what had Talin so closed off. His heart hadn't stopped pounding since Talin had walked out of his workshop.

The thought of losing Talin...

Dimitri swallowed down bile. He didn't want to think of that at all.

When they reached the marina, Dimitri drove to the old warehouse he used for Vlad's merchandise. He held Talin's right elbow when they got out of the car, and led him to _the Anastasia_ docked near the warehouse.

"Where are we going?" Talin asked. "Is what you want to show me in the boat?"

"Yes," Dimitri said as he urged Talin on board.

Dimitri hurried to untie the _Anastasi_ a, tossing the line into the boat. He hurried onto the _Anastasia_ too, not wanting to give Talin a moment to change his mind.

Making sure Talin was comfortable in the cabin below deck, Dimitri sailed the _Anastasia_ a distance away from land, stopping almost in the middle of the lake. He secured the boat for the night, before he went below deck to join Talin.

Talin sat on a comfortable bench, his arms folded against his chest; his head leaned back on the wall. When Dimitri walked in, he opened his eyes and stared at him.

"What are we doing in the middle of the lake?"

Dimitri pulled at a thin chain around his neck which had a key. Sparing Talin a small smile, he walked to the right corner of the cabin. Kneeling on the deck, he pulled out a piece of wood on the floor and reached in to unlock the safe he'd built into the boat. Removing the folders he'd put in there, he got to his feet and walked back to where Talin sat watching him. Placing the folders on the bolted table before Talin, he sat beside Talin.

"What's this?"

"Show and tell," Dimitri said with a small smile.

When Talin didn't crack a smile, he sighed.

"Come on, Talin, this isn't easy for me either."

Talin ignored the files and turned to study him in the clear fluorescent light.

"Why did you decide to tell me?" Talin asked. "No one talks in the _Bratva_. No matter how bad it gets, no one talks. Why did you tell me?"

Dimitri held Talin's gaze.

"Can I start from the beginning?"

Talin frowned then nodded.

Dimitri sat back on the bench, and wished they had strong liquor. Yet, he couldn't have any, not now when he needed to keep all his senses around him.

"I wasn't always _Bratva_ ," Dimitri said with a small smile. "There was a life before this."

"You were in the army," Talin said, when Dimitri gave him a questioning glance, Talin said, "You told me on our first date."

"Yeah," Dimitri said with a short nod. "My father died four years ago. I came for the funeral and right when I was leaving Colston for good, I discovered he was murdered."

A shadow passed over Talin's features, and Dimitri reached for his hand, squeezing his fingers.

"My father," Dimitri continued, "was murdered for killing a man in an attempt to leave the Brotherhood. My family was left with a debt to the Brotherhood for my father's transgressions."

"Your family owes blood for blood," Talin said, his gaze dropping to their tangled fingers.

"Yes...something like that." Dimitri frowned. "But why would you say that?"

"Huh?" Talin looked up to meet his gaze.

"You said, blood for blood, why use that phrase?" Dimitri asked studying Talin.

"I've heard it before. Continue with your story," Talin urged.

Dimitri wondered where Talin would have heard the phrase.

"The Brotherhood wanted the marina, so they threatened my family," Dimitri said. "I had to protect Lukas and Katerina. I agreed to work for them as long as they allowed my family to operate the marina without interference."

"Why not go to the police?" Talin asked his gaze accusing. "You were in the army, Dimitri. Surely, you have useful contacts you could have called. I don't understand you choosing to work with these people."

"They killed my father, Talin. I know they did, but they made it look like a heart attack. There was no proof to show the authorities. I checked the autopsy file myself."

Dimitri let go of Talin's hand.

"Choosing to work with them was the best way to get any hardcore evidence, the only way to protect my family's livelihood, and their lives. It's taken me four years to get into the inner circle. The Brotherhood is paranoid: careful and mistrustful. Anyone who's crossed them in the past decade is dead."

Talin got up and ran a fingers through his hair.

"You're playing with fire, Dimitri. You're going to end up dead too."

Dimitri stared at him.

"These folders," Talin pointed to the pile of folders on the table. "You're trying to collect evidence, aren't you? You're finding proof that you can use with the police. Fuck, you're an idiot."

"Talin."

"Don't ' _Talin_ ' me, Dimitri," Talin said as he walked around the table and started pacing the small empty area by the door. "You're a fucking idiot."

"I've told you the truth, your turn. Why do you know so much about the _Bratva_? For someone who's lived a quiet life, you don't look as surprised as I thought you'd be. What don't I know?"

Talin folded his arms against his chest.

"Who did your father kill?"

"Talin—

"Who did your father kill, Dimitri?"

Dimitri sighed and opened the folder on the table to get the picture Lukas had given him that first day after the funeral.

Dimitri handed the picture to Talin.

"Ilia Pajari," Dimitri said.

Talin stopped pacing, his gaze on the picture, eyes wide.

"Talin?" Dimitri got up. "What's wrong?"
Talin dropped the picture on the table and rubbed his temple with his right hand.

"How long ago was this picture taken?"

"Four years," Dimitri said with a frown. "Talin—

"That's not right," Talin shook his head, pointing to the picture. "That picture is wrong."

Dimitri walked around the table confused by Talin's reaction. He took Talin's shoulders in his hands and shook him slightly.

"What do you mean the picture is wrong?"

Talin dropped his arms to his sides.

"Ilia Pajari is not dead."

"What?" Dimitri's fingers tightened on Talin's shoulders. "How would you know that? You're not making sense, Talin."

"Ilia Pajari is alive." Talin pushed Dimitri back and stepped away from him. "I know he's alive."

' _He's broken.'_

Lucian's words returned to Dimitri. The idea that Lucian knew Talin filled his head, almost driving him insane. How would they know each other?

"What are you talking about?" Dimitri asked his tone ice cold.

***

Talin wished there was a way to escape this conversation. He'd hoped never to dwell on his past, but it seemed as though karma was having the final laugh on this one. In one afternoon, the cloak he'd built around his memories had ripped open and dropped to the ground. He could even imagine karma stomping her sharp red heels on the cloak with glee.

He let out a soft laugh and moved to take a seat.

His gaze on the files Dimitri had on the table. What a puny approach to the Brotherhood. Compared to what he'd done after Gabriel's death, Dimitri's approach seemed...tame.

"You're not the only one with a past, Dimitri," he said when he met Dimitri's cold blue gaze. "I'm...amused by the fact that you and I have so much in common.

_How small the world was_ , Talin thought his gaze holding Dimitri's. _How could the one man who'd fucked over his family connect them?_

Ilia Pajari and his association with the _Bratva_ had taken his heart, his life, and his reasons to live. Thinking about it had Talin closing his eyes in defeat.

"How do you know Ilia?" Dimitri demanded his cold tone cutting through the illusion they'd placed on their relationship.

Talin's gaze strayed to the files on the table. He'd put to rest his vendetta, but it seemed Dimitri's was alive and well.

"Talin."

"I'm a smart man, Dimitri. You know what a smart man would do right now?"

Dimitri frowned.

"A smart man would make you get up there and drive us back to shore," Talin said. "I'll go back to being the Talin who owns a club, serving you drinks without talking to you. And you, you go back to being the thug I thought you were. Coz, that's what will save us both."

"Why? Don't you want what's between us?" Dimitri asked. "Don't you want me even a little, Talin?"

Talin sat back in his seat.

"I'm crazy for imagining we could work. Do you know why I'm calling you an idiot?"

Dimitri's fingers clenched into tight fists and Talin chuckled, the tone off even to his ears.

"What makes you think you can fight the beast with a couple of files stashed in your boat?" Talin pushed the files on the table to the floor with his right hand. "You're screwing up, Dimitri."

"Who the hell do you think you are?"

"I'm—,"

Talin broke off when a shadow behind Dimitri caught his eye. Reflex took over and he launched himself at Dimitri. Pushing off the bench, he jumped on the table and threw his weight on Dimitri. The impact surprised Dimitri, forcing Dimitri to stumble back, tripping; they fell hard on the floor with Talin on top of Dimitri just as a loud bang filled the cabin. The bullet lodged into the wall where Talin had sat before.

Dimitri wrapped a strong arm around Talin, rolling over before Talin could think past the bullet hole in the wall. Dimitri pulled out his gun and shot two bullets into the intruder's chest.

Dimitri got to his feet, and Talin tried to scramble up after him.

Dimitri clamped a hand on Talin's shoulder and pushed him down under the bolted table.

When Talin looked up, Dimitri's gaze warned him to stay. Talin sighed when Dimitri gave him a warning glance, before he turned off the light in the cabin and went off to the upper deck.

Conscious of the dead man a few feet away, Talin shifted to sit on the table. His stomach tied in knots; he jumped when he heard four more shots on the upper deck. Bile rose at the thought of Dimitri shot down.

Talin winced.

_Shit,_ he couldn't sit here waiting...

Talin forced his limbs to move, getting to his feet; he went to pick up the gun their assailant had dropped. His fingers searching in the dark, he cursed under his breath when he fell on his knees and touched wetness. The lights came on and he hissed when he saw his hand covered in blood. Talin wiped his hand on the dead man's dark sweater with a disgusted groan and scrambled away from him.

"What the hell are you doing?" Dimitri cursed rushing to help him up. "Damn, Talin."

"You went running off, and left me here. I couldn't just wait, I wanted to help," Talin said gagging. "I gotta wash this off."

He stood up and ran out to the head, a little room he'd seen tucked right outside the main cabin. Turning on the water in the sink, he washed his hands hard, disgust twisting his face.

"Talin," Dimitri said from the door.

He looked into the mirror to find Dimitri watching him.

"You okay?" Dimitri asked his blue eyes filled with concern.

"No." Talin slammed the tap closed and braced his hands on the sink. "That guy just tried to kill you. One second late, and we'd both be dead."

"There were three more on the upper deck," Dimitri said, his tone calm as though it were commonplace.

Talin grabbed the hand towel on the rack and wiped his hands, turning to face Dimitri. He didn't know what to say.

What could he say that made sense?

Dimitri turned and headed back to the cabin to check their assailant.

Talin placed the hand towel on the sink and stepped out into the walkway to watch Dimitri kneel beside the dead man. Dimitri moved the assailant's gun away, turning him to his back.

"I guess you've answered my question about killing people."

Dimitri's gaze flashed at him.

"He would have killed both of us if I'd hesitated. I found diving gear on the upper deck. They must have followed us out here—,"

"They're a warning," Talin said folding his arms against his chest.

Dimitri removed the ski mask on the dead man's head.

"I don't recognize him."

"You wouldn't," Talin said. "Fuck. I'm in this now."

Dimitri dropped the mask on top of the assassin and got to his feet.

"I'm sorry."

"Don't tell me you're sorry," Talin snapped.

Dimitri picked up the assassin's gun.

"You know what? I don't appreciate your accusing tone, Talin. I really don't. I'm trying to be honest with you, but I'm not the only one with secrets here. How do you know Ilia?" Dimitri asked. "And don't take me for an idiot, Talin. Anyone who knows Ilia Pajari is in deeper with the _Bratva_ more than I am. I want the truth—,"

"The _Bratva_ killed my husband," Talin cut Dimitri off, the words torn out of him.

He'd never said them aloud before. It hurt to hear them.

Gabriel.

A stabbing pain slashed through his heart the scene on that staircase filling his head. His hands pressed against Gabriel's chest, blood pumping out, coating his hands...Talin swallowed hard.

"They hired a man who shot three bullets into Gabriel's heart," Talin said in a whisper. "I could do nothing, nothing!"

Talin met Dimitri's vivid blue gaze.

"Gabriel bled to death while I waited for an ambulance to come and help."

Dimitri started to reach for him, but Talin stepped back. He couldn't handle Dimitri holding him right now, not with a dead guy lying between them, three more on the upper deck.

"This is how it starts," Talin said, pointing to their would-be assassin. "It won't end until one of us is dead and I'm not mourning you, Dimitri. I refuse it."

"I'm not mourning you either," Dimitri snapped.

"Great, common ground," Talin said. "What do we do now? Should we call the cops?"

"No cops. We get back to shore. We're sitting ducks out here."

Talin's gaze fell on the man lying dead on the deck.

"I'm not staying here with him," Talin said, hating that he sounded petulant.

Dimitri shook his head, amusement filling his eyes.

"I believe I'm finally meeting the real Talin."

Talin glared at him.

What was there to be amused about? Someone had just tried to kill them.

Talin stepped into the cabin, careful to jump over the dead body to get to the table. He picked up the files he'd dropped on the floor earlier, careful to get every paper. Tucking them into his leather jacket, he zipped up tight and hurried up the walkway leading to the upper deck after Dimitri.

Dimitri steadied him when he came up on the upper deck and almost stumbled on another dead assassin.

More blood on the deck...Talin grimaced.

Taking in a deep breath, he allowed Dimitri to lead him to the helm where he stared at Dimitri as they drove back to shore.

_Whatever happened now_ , he thought, _they were stuck together._

***

Dimitri called Lucian when they got to the dock. Thirty minutes later, a crew of five men drove up to the dock and boarded _the Anastasia_. Dimitri and Talin stood by the old warehouse watching them work using boat lights.

The head of the crew paced the cockpit area on the _Anastasia._ The man was burly with shaggy blond hair, dressed in a heavy jacket, he smoked like a chimney.

"He's Sasha," Dimitri said. "Mean son of a bitch. He can gut a man in seconds. They call him the enforcer."

Talin shuddered beside him, his arms tightly woven across his chest.

"They didn't know the assassins on the boat."

"Yes," Dimitri frowned. "Lucian is angry. He thinks it's an attack on their territory."

"Lucian," Talin said softly, his gaze never leaving Sasha who now stood at the railing watching them. "What's his last name?"

Dimitri thought about what Talin had said in the boat earlier. The pain in Talin's voice when he'd talked about a husband Dimitri hadn't known existed. If Ilia's family had killed Talin's husband, how did Talin not know Lucian?

"Pajari," Dimitri said turning to look at Talin. "Lucian Pajari."

Talin's shoulders stiffened.

"He's Ilia's brother."

"Yes."

Talin nodded, not looking at him. Talin's arms tightened across his chest, and Dimitri imagined Talin was doing his best to hold himself together.

"Talin—

"Sasha is coming over," Talin said, his tone too quiet. "He can't know you told me the truth. Do you understand, Dimitri?"

The warning in Talin's voice made him wonder more about Talin's past.

"I know."

Talin nodded. He kept leaning against the wall until Sasha reached them.

" _The Anastasia_ is clean. Are you sure you don't know those bastards?" Sasha asked Dimitri, but his gaze was on Talin.

"I don't recognize them," Dimitri said.

"Puzzling, why the hell would they want to kill you?" Sasha demanded. "Everyone knows not to touch you."

"Well, that's good to know," Dimitri said, "but someone's slipping. You're the only people I know who'd want to kill me, Sasha. Should I start worrying?"

"No. I'll handle this, which brings us to our second problem." Sasha pointed to Talin and Dimitri froze. "Is he alright? We can take care of him if he's a probl—

Talin burst out into hysterical sobs, shocking Dimitri.

Sasha gaped.

"Oh gods, those men were going to kill my Dimitri. My poor Dimitri," Talin sobbed. "What would I do without him?"

Dimitri bit back a laugh and turned to face Talin because he was afraid he'd spoil Talin's game.

Talin threw himself into Dimitri's arms, and looked at Sasha from over Dimitri's shoulder.

"Are they dead?" Talin asked Sasha. "They won't hurt him, will they? You have to tell me, I'll have nightmares if you don't. I need my Dimitri."

Dimitri bit his lip and turned to look at an uncomfortable Sasha.

Sasha cleared his throat and nodded.

"Yes, they're dead. You don't have to worry about Dimitri."

"Oh, thank God," Talin said. "You make sure you get the people behind this arrested detective."

Sasha glanced at Dimitri with a small smile and nodded.

"Don't worry, we will."

Talin buried his face into Dimitri's shoulder.

Sasha chuckled.

"Well...I guess that answers my question. Dimitri, I'll see you tomorrow. Get some sleep, Lucian and I will check into this."

Dimitri watched Sasha leave, and didn't relax until the van drove out of the marina. Talin must have been watching the van too because he stepped out of Dimitri's arms the moment the van was out of sight.

" _My poor Dimitri_?" Dimitri asked studying Talin's sober face.

There were no tears in sight.

"It worked, didn't it?" Talin winked at him.

"Who are you?" Dimitri laughed.

Talin smiled and glanced toward the great house hidden in the trees to their left.

"Someone who's sleeping in your bed tonight," Talin said.

"Really," Dimitri reached for Talin's hand. "Are you sure we're sleeping?"

"Yes."

"I thought I was your Dimitri."

"Ha," Talin said turning in the direction of the main house. "Come on, I have papers stuffed in my chest and they're making me itchy."

"You're so hard on me," Dimitri complained as they walked in the dark.

Talin squeezed his fingers as they walked up to the house, the reality of four dead men between them. Had Talin not seen that man behind him, they'd both be dead.

Dimitri couldn't imagine Talin dead. The thought alone had him shaking.

"Are we good?" Dimitri asked when they reached the house.

Talin was handsome in the moonlight: sad and handsome. When Talin met his gaze, brown eyes filled with shadows, Dimitri held his breath.

"Yeah," Talin said.

Dimitri let out a relieved sigh.

***

Dimitri's bedroom was unexpected. It was on the second floor with a back view of the property. There was no clutter, Talin noted. A large bed in the middle of the room dominated the space with wine-red covers. There was a mahogany chest of drawers against the opposite wall, and an inbuilt closet right beside them. The closet doors were closed, but Talin imagined Dimitri's clothes hang in there in neat military order. There was an armchair set right by the wide windows.

Dimitri walked into the bedroom carrying an extra towel. He closed and locked the door, then stood watching him for a moment.

"You can use the shower first," Dimitri said pointing to a door to his left.

Talin unzipped his jacket, careful to hold the files in place. Dimitri placed the towel on the bed and came to take the files from him.

"You need to get rid of these," Talin said removing his jacket. "It's not safe to keep them."

"Will you read them first?"

Talin nodded taking his jacket to the armchair.

"We'll burn them after," Dimitri said, touching his left shoulder with a wince.

Talin closed the distance between them. Lifting Dimitri's shirt to see Dimitri's left shoulder. He frowned when he saw blood coming from a long scratch.

"You got hurt." Talin met blue eyes. "Why didn't you say anything?"

"There was no time."

Talin took Dimitri's hand and led the way to the bathroom.

"Talin," Dimitri stopped at the door into the bathroom.

Talin met his gaze.

Dimitri couldn't help the sigh when Talin caressed Dimitri's jaw with his free hand. The soft touch sent crazy waves of need through Dimitri. He'd waited so long, worried so much about how Talin would take his reality. The relief of having it out in the open almost made him think he was in a dream.

Talin kissed his left jaw.

"I know, Dimitri. It's okay."

Dimitri allowed Talin to lead him into the bright bathroom.

Talin undid the buttons on Dimitri's shirt. Dimitri smiled sinking his fingers into Talin's hair, sifting through the soft strands. He leaned closer to bury his nose into the soft hair.

Talin pushed the edges of his shirt apart, running hands over Dimitri's chest.

Dimitri closed his eyes and pressed a kiss on Talin's shoulder as he helped Talin remove his shirt.

Talin hissed when he saw the cut on Dimitri's shoulder.

"This looks painful."

"A scratch," Dimitri murmured, against Talin's ear.

Talin pressed his finger on the cut, and Dimitri yelped.

"A scratch, my ass," Talin said, stepping back from him. "Where's the first aid kit?"

"You're mean." Dimitri scowled inspecting the cut on his left shoulder.

He'd struggled with one of their assailants on the upper deck. The bastard had pulled out a knife almost sinking it into his chest. The cut wasn't too deep, but it stung.

"Back left," he told Talin who'd opened the cupboards under the sink.

Talin got the first aid kit and placed it on the sink counter.

"Come closer, Dimitri."

"Baby, are you coming on to me?"

"You wish," Talin said, turning to face him.

Dimitri left no space between them. He closed his eyes, biting his lip when Talin pressed a wet cotton pad on the cut on his shoulder. The sting of antiseptic almost brought tears. He opened his eyes to find Talin working diligently, carefully dubbing blood away, and cleaning the cut like a professional.

"Are you going to kiss it better?" he asked when Talin dropped the dirty cotton pad on the counter.

"Do you want me to?" Talin asked meeting his gaze.

Dimitri bent his knees slightly and wrapped his arms around Talin's waist. He lifted him up and placed him on the sink counter. Talin shifted, opening his legs making space for him.

"I want more than kisses," Dimitri said his gaze on Talin's lips.

Talin smiled.

"Me too," Talin said.

Dimitri didn't need a second invitation. He sunk his fingers into Talin's hair and covered Talin's lips with his. The kiss ignited, with Talin wrapping his arms around his shoulders, holding him close.

Talin opened his mouth, allowing Dimitri's tongue into white-hot heat. His breath hitched when Talin stroked his tongue with his. Dimitri dropped his hands to Talin's t-shirt, wanting to feel Talin's skin. He broke their kiss to tug it off. Talin raised his arms above his head to help, and that's when Dimitri saw the tattoo.

Through the bathroom mirror, Dimitri stared at the most amazing tattoo of a dark angel he'd ever seen. Wide dark elegant wings, long dark hair, face down so Dimitri couldn't see the angel's face perhaps that was the point. The elegant silhouette of the man angel, fallen on his knees, with one single blood-red tear falling to the ground.

The picture of sadness, the angel surrounded by despair...or _pain_ , Dimitri thought.

Talin's _grief?_

Dimitri touched the red tear, and Talin leaned into him.

Talin pressed a kiss on Dimitri's neck and whispered.

"Show me it's okay to live again, Dimitri."

***

10

Dimitri's fingers swept through Talin's hair, working out soap suds. Talin closed his eyes, a smile tugging his lips at how gentle Dimitri touched him. Dimitri finished washing Talin's hair, and kissed his jaw.

Talin moved closer to Dimitri, his lips against Dimitri's shoulder. He sighed when Dimitri ran his hands over his back, gentle fingers tracing the tattoo on his back.

"It's beautiful."

Talin slid his fingers into Dimitri's wet hair, wanting to forget all the reasons he'd gotten that tattoo. He'd spent years alone, never wanting anyone this close. In his life, he'd only shared his body with Gabriel, given him everything...so completely that when Gabriel died, it felt like sacrilege to allow another close.

Yet...

Dimitri's touch felt right.

Leaning up, Talin kissed Dimitri. A hungry kiss, pouring his lust, his need into the sensual exploration. His breath hitched when Dimitri grabbed his hips, pressing their bodies close, Dimitri's hard length hot against his stomach driving his own arousal.

They spent endless minutes in the shower, kissing under the warm water, fanning their lust, driving it to burning heights. When they finally got on Dimitri's bed, Talin wanted nothing more than Dimitri inside him.

And...oh, how glorious it was.

Talin dug his fingers into Dimitri's back, lost in sensation. There was no softness with Dimitri, no hesitant caresses, Dimitri simply took from him...and gave back...Talin let out a heated gasp when Dimitri surged into him. Strong, full, hot...so hot, he felt caught in a fine balance of pleasure and pain. They fit tight: Dimitri was large, larger than Talin had ever taken. Dimitri stroked into him, Talin drew in a heated gasp, shifting his legs wider, his toes curling as pleasure broke the line, sweeping through him.

Dimitri took his lips in a consuming kiss, and he gave up control, allowing Dimitri to take him over.

***

Talin lay on his stomach, head facing away from Dimitri, long dark hair spilled on the pillow.

Dimitri couldn't stop touching the silky strands. Propping his head up, Dimitri studied the tattoo on Talin's back in the dim light.

_Detailed art,_ he thought his gaze on the dark angel's wings. The work would have taken days; the pain...Dimitri touched the red tear.

Talin hid his pain well. No one would guess Talin was ever married. The loft at the club was bereft of pictures, no mementos to show Talin's life before.

Dimitri sighed.

He'd been jealous of Lucian knowing more about Talin than he did. Now there was this other person...Dimitri touched the angel's hair.

_Talin's Gabriel_ , he thought.

Dimitri couldn't help wondering what their life had been like.

How had Gabriel gotten Talin to marry him?

Were they happy?

_Stupid question_ , Dimitri shook his head.

Judging from the tattoo and Talin's closed off attitude; Gabriel's death had been hard to deal with. Dimitri doubted he could compare to Gabriel. Not that he wanted to, it was just...intimidating to think of another man who'd loved Talin enough to marry him.

Talin shifted and turned his head to face him.

Dimitri smiled when Talin's eyes blinked open. Talin's sleepy eyes were sexy as hell. Dimitri kissed Talin awake.

"Morning," he said, when Talin moved into his arms.

Damn, that little miracle was more than he'd imagined. Having Talin in his arms, kissing him, holding him...

"Morning," Talin said pressing kisses on Dimitri's jaw. "What time is it?"

"Don't think about time," Dimitri urged, loathe to let the world in. He held Talin tight. "You feel so good."

Dimitri ground his erection against Talin's thigh.

"Someone's wide awake," Talin said, his hand sliding between them.

Dimitri groaned when Talin took him in his hand. He wasn't sure he'd last under Talin's ministrations. Talin's touch was sending him into an overload every few seconds. He tried to take Talin's hand away, but he got a nip on his jaw for his trouble.

"Lie back," Talin said, his voice still rough with sleep. It sounded so sexy.

Dimitri shifted, lying on his back. He sank his fingers into Talin's hair when Talin dusted kisses along his jaw, down his neck and to his chest. The covers slid away as Talin sucked on his nipples. He closed his eyes as heat spread through him, his cock filling, needing Talin's heat.

Talin trailed kisses down his stomach, tongue swirling over his navel, before following the dark treasure trail to his hard cock. A harsh gasp escaped when Talin took him into his mouth. That hot delicious cavern...Talin sucked on his sensitive head, and all thought ceased. His fingers tightened in Talin's hair and he surged deeper into Talin's mouth. Talin licked and laved his length, slowly driving him to the edge, until there was nothing but Talin's hot, blazing mouth.

He thrust harder, loving that Talin took it in stride, giving soft encouraging moans that drove Dimitri to a faster rhythm. His orgasm started at his toes, blazing through him like molten fire, he came hard. Filling Talin's mouth with his hot seed, delicious waves coursed down his spine as Talin sucked his cock gently.

Dimitri threw a hand over his eyes when it was over, and wondered if he could give up having Talin in his bed. He highly doubted that.

Talin crawled over him, his naked body sliding against his, stoking cooling embers. His cock surged when Talin kissed him. He could taste himself on Talin's lips, in his mouth, wrapping his arms around Talin; he rolled on the bed until Talin was under him.

***

They spent the early hours of the morning making love. At around seven, Talin's phone alarm woke them. Talin went into the shower first, afraid if they went in together, they would both end up back in bed again.

Dimitri smiled as he wrapped a towel around his hips.

Talin wasn't wrong. If it was possible, he wanted a few days locked away somewhere with Talin in his bed. Sex with Talin was addictive. He wanted more.

Dimitri came into the bedroom after his shower to find Talin already dressed. Talin sat in the middle of his neat bed, reading the files they'd gotten from the _Anastasia_.

"What do you think?" Dimitri asked, walking to his closet to dress for the day.

"Seems all roads lead to Vlad," Talin said, holding up a black and white photograph.

Dimitri had managed to take it the night he'd met Vlad. That scary woman made his blood run cold.

"That Vlad is a woman is curious," Talin said. "She looks harmless."

"She's lethal," Dimitri said, remembering a chocolate cake and four dead men.

Talin dropped the picture on the files on the bed.

"I'm not in deep with the _Bratva_."

Dimitri paused in the act of wearing his boxer shorts to glance at Talin.

"You said to know Ilia Pajari, I'd have to be in deep with them, but I'm not, Dimitri."

Dimitri pulled on his boxer shorts and reached for a pair of black slacks. He smiled as he wore them, enjoying Talin's appreciative gaze on him.

"Will you tell me what's going on with you?"

Talin's gaze slid away from him to the windows.

"It's not easy," Talin said, his tone low, heavy with sadness. "I've spent the past four years burying it away."

"Is it because of Gabriel?" Dimitri asked, well aware that he needed to accept that Gabriel mattered to Talin.

"Yes and no," Talin shook his head. "It wasn't easy living without him."

Talin met his gaze.

"I loved him, Dimitri."

The soft admission destroyed him. It really did because he wanted Talin's love. He wanted that look on Talin's face for himself.

Talin's gaze dropped to the folders again.

"Those days with Gabriel, I wish I wasn't so naïve. I lived in a world where nothing could go wrong. If it did, all I'd need to do is tell Gabriel and he fixed it."

Dimitri reached for a blue long-sleeved t-shirt and pulled it on, turning away from Talin, he prayed for strength to listen to Talin talk about his husband.

"Then Gabriel was gone," Talin continued, "and everything went wrong and there was only me to fix it."

Talin let out a soft laugh.

Dimitri turned to see Talin run a shaking hand through his hair. When Talin looked at him, Dimitri's heart dropped. Talin hid nothing, the pain he'd felt, still carried by the looks of it was so clear.

"I lost my mind when he died," Talin confessed. "I went crazy, jumped off the deep end."

Talin gave a nervous laugh before he got off the bed and walked to the window.

"Dimitri."

"Yes, Talin."

"If I tell you about me—"

"I can take it," Dimitri cut in, aware he'd had the same doubts about telling Talin the truth before.

"No matter—

"I can take it," Dimitri promised.

Talin turned to study him for a moment, then nodded and sat in the armchair by the windows.

***

Talin let out a nervous breath, and gripped the arms of the chair. Fear threatened to choke him. He'd fought the memories back so long...fought to forget that day with Gabriel, hands pressed on Gabriel's chest, blood pumping out regardless...his own screams as Gabriel's eyes closed, never to open again.

Talin rubbed his left temple and plunged in.

"Gabriel was my life," Talin stated. "Everything I did was for him: our house, the gallery we owned together, the lifestyle we kept...everything, I did it for him."

Talin closed his eyes.

"After Gabriel's murder, I didn't know what to do. I felt lost...alone. Even Gabriel's twin brother couldn't help me. I locked myself up in our bedroom for two months. I couldn't function."

Dimitri moved to sit on the edge of the bed they'd shared. Their passion so fresh, Talin felt like an ass talking about his dead lover, but there was no way around this. Dimitri needed to know the truth.

"Continue," Dimitri urged in a strained voice.

Talin nodded.

"One day, the police came by the house to tell me they'd caught Gabriel's killer. I was alone in the house. Raphael had gone to the office. I remember staring at the detective in charge of the case and wondering if catching Gabriel's killer meant Gabriel would come back to life."

Talin wiped a hand down his face.

"I was fucked up. It didn't make sense that a random man could walk into our house and shoot Gabriel on sight. I remember yelling at that detective. If Raphael hadn't come back home, they might have arrested me for assault."

"Raphael wanted it to end there," Talin said. "The killer was caught and in jail. Since he'd confessed, there was no trial. Raphael insisted we end it there."

"Raphael is Gabriel's twin?" Dimitri asked.

Talin nodded.

"Identical, down to their long black hair," Talin said. "I couldn't let my doubts go. I wanted to know why. So, when Raphael went to work, I went to see that bastard in jail."

"Talin," Dimitri chided.

"The sight of him...," Talin shook his head. "God, it brought out this anger boiling inside me. I wanted him dead like Gabriel. Looking at that man brought out the worst in me, Dimitri. I could barely talk without screaming at him. He must have thought me crazy, so he gave me the Pajari name. He wouldn't say anything else, but that name. I tried to see him again, but he refused my visits. A month later, he was stabbed to death."

"I hired a private investigator after that. When Raphael found out, he paid the man off and sent him away. We fought, Raphael and I, I was so angry with him, I kicked him out of my house."

Talin sat back in the armchair and gave Dimitri a wan smile.

"From there, I decided to find out why anyone would kill my husband."

"I understand Raphael," Dimitri said then. "I'd not have let you either."

"Yes well, this is why having money is a beautiful thing. I called my father," Talin said. "I asked him for help for the first time in years and he couldn't resist."

"I spent two years investigating Pajari Industries. I was sure the company would lead me to Gabriel's real killer. I followed the money, unlike you who decided to get into the main organization," Talin said with a small wan smile. "I discovered Ilia Pajari was a puppet in Pajari Industries. He was a front man, placed there because he's clean. He has no record, no illegal deals, he ran Pajari Industries legitimately. He'd even approached Gabriel for a deal. I asked Gabriel not to accept that deal, but he hadn't told anyone he'd reject it yet. So, having the Pajari family responsible for Gabriel's murder didn't make sense. Still, the man in jail had given me their name. I had no choice but to keep investigating."

"Please go back a bit, Ilia approached Gabriel? Why?" Dimitri asked.

"Gabriel had a knack for money. When we got out of college, he created a company called Pan Limited, which he ran with Raphael's help. Pan Limited owns a dozen different brands, and Ilia was interested in one particular chain of auto spare parts called Gara Spares."

"Oh, we have one right down the street from the Talon. I get parts from there when I can't source them anywhere," Dimitri said.

Talin grinned.

"That's Gabriel's dream at work. Ilia approached him because Pajari Industries was shipping motor parts...it sounded like a great deal. I was skeptic though. I'd heard rumors about Ilia's family in our social circles. I was worried something would happen to Gabriel. So the afternoon Gabriel was shot, I begged him not to do it. Gabriel agreed after subtle reasoning." Talin smiled then remembering their non-argument. "Minutes later, I was trying to keep him alive on our stairs."

Talin closed his eyes, unable to ignore the image of Gabriel dying again in his head.

"We can stop if you want," Dimitri offered.

"No." Talin met Dimitri's gaze, needing to get his story out. "I have to tell you everything."

"So you followed the money," Dimitri urged after a moment.

"Yes, I wanted to know more about Ilia." Talin took in a deep breath and let it out slow. "Obviously, I couldn't get into Pajari Industries myself. Ilia knew me. So, I hired two men, paid them well. They worked their way through the ranks to the top, getting as close to Ilia as they could get. From there, it was a matter of keeping track of Ilia Pajari. His family _is Bratva,_ but only specific people in the family. They're in the shadows, like Lucian, who I didn't know about. They are very hard to track."

"Lucian is Vlad's right hand man," Dimitri said. "But why do you say Ilia is alive? They think his dead."

Talin stared at Dimitri, then got up and started pacing.

"After two years, all I had was a lot of documentation on money that goes into Pajari from phantom sources. No concrete proof, so I decided to confront Ilia for cold hard facts. I waited for him at his penthouse in Manhattan. I brought two men with me, roughed him up good, wanting my vengeance for Gabriel's death."

"Didn't know you had it in you," Dimitri teased.

Talin sighed.

"When you're beyond anger, you can get people to do very terrible things with money. When those two men were done, Ilia looked bad, but he was ready to talk. Ilia wanted out of the organization, but he couldn't do it alone," Talin said. "We reached an agreement. I'd help him disappear. Ilia would tell me who ordered Gabriel's murder."

"And?" Dimitri asked.

"He gave me the name Petrov," Talin said. "Ilia said if I found Petrov, I'd understand everything. He gave me an account number to a bank here in Colston. Last I know, Ilia is in a small European country living it up. I funded his escape before I came to Colston. So I know that picture with your father killing Ilia is fake."

"Petrov is the reason you moved to Colston," Dimitri concluded.

"Yes," Talin nodded. "That was four years ago. I stayed at a friend's house. His name is Carl, runs a bookshop downtown. I spent most of my days drinking, and nights trying to find Petrov. I ended up at the Talon one night. The previous owner, Tina Reyes, she picked me up behind the club when I'd drunk too much. She forced me to sober up and I decided to let my mad search go."

"Just like that?" Dimitri asked.

"Yes, just like that," Talin said. "I was lost, Dimitri. The search wasn't about Gabriel anymore...I couldn't even remember why I'd started chasing after them. I let Tina talk me into a quiet life. I bought the club from her, focused on it, and decided to try living. I was succeeding in it too...the forgetting... until you."

Dimitri got up and stopped him pacing.

"I'm sorry."

Dimitri kissed his forehead and pulled him in to a tight hug.

"I know telling me and remembering wasn't easy."

Talin bunched Dimitri's t-shirt, his fingers curling into the soft fabric.

"I've told you because you can walk away too. You can—

"I can't," Dimitri cut him off. "My family is in the middle, even if they killed me—,"

"Don't talk like that!"

Dimitri held him tighter.

"If they killed me, Talin, they'd still want the marina. Lukas and Katerina won't be free. Look at the lengths they've gone to pull me in. I need to find out why they framed my father for Ilia's supposed death. Why they killed him."

Talin closed his eyes, burying his face into Dimitri's shoulder. His interference with Ilia had somehow ruined Dimitri's family. The thought made him sick. _Fuck!_ He felt sick at the thought of Dimitri dead. He needed to see Raphael.

Dimitri's phone buzzed on the bedside table and they both sighed.

Dimitri dropped a kiss on top of Talin's head and went to answer his phone.

Talin moved to the bed and gathered up the files.

"I'll be right there," Dimitri said to his caller.

Talin watched Dimitri put his cell phone into his pocket.

"Lucian?" Talin asked, noting the tight lines on the corners of Dimitri's lips.

"Yeah," Dimitri said, then holding Talin's gaze, he smiled. "About last night..."

Talin blushed because he wanted Dimitri, and didn't think that need would stop soon.

He cleared his throat.

"I'm hoping you'll come to my loft tonight for a repeat performance."

Dimitri grinned.

"I can keep the key?"

"Not that you've ever listened to me about returning it," Talin said.

Dimitri moved closer, placing his hands on Talin's shoulders.

"We'll get through this."

Talin closed his eyes when Dimitri kissed him, soft lips moving over his, shaking him to the core. He loved Dimitri's heat. Because it reached deep inside him, warmed up spaces and corners he'd thought frozen for life.

Dimitri ended their kiss with reluctance.

"Let's go for breakfast," Dimitri said against his lips.

"And these?" Talin asked, holding up the files.

"We'll burn them on the barbecue grill."

Talin returned Dimitri's smile but his heart felt heavy as Dimitri took his hand and led him out of the bedroom.

Dimitri was the first in years to reach so deep inside him and make him feel, care even...

"Talin?" Dimitri looked at him as they went down the stairs. "You okay?"

Talin nodded.

"I'm fine."

Dimitri studied him for a moment, and then continued downstairs. They walked into the cozy kitchen to find Katerina and Lukas having breakfast.

"Talin," Katerina said in surprise, getting to her feet when she saw him behind Dimitri. She came around the kitchen table and hugged Talin. "Morning, I didn't know you were here. I make you breakfast. What do you want to eat? Tell me, anything you want."

Dimitri chuckled and pulled Talin out of Katerina's arms.

"Stop scaring him."

Talin smiled when Katerina smacked a kiss on his cheek and hurried to the fridge.

"I'll make you an omelet."

"Thanks," Talin said turning to Lukas.

"Morning," he said a tad shy facing Dimitri's brother this way.

Lukas smiled and pulled out the chair beside him. Dimitri took the files from Talin and urged him to sit down.

Lukas passed him a mug and poured him coffee from the coffee pot in the middle of the table.

Dimitri went out the back door, the files in his arms. Minutes later, he entered the kitchen without the files. He went to wash his hands at the sink, and Talin figured Dimitri had torched them. Dimitri joked with Katerina as she worked at the kitchen range.

"My brother seems happier," Lukas said, smiling at Talin. "Thank you."

Talin sipped his coffee.

"I haven't done much for him, Lukas."

"Your being here is enough," Lukas said. "It puts Dimitri at ease, and I'm grateful for that."

Talin returned Lukas's smile. He didn't know about feeling at ease but it was great to share breakfast with others. Talin had forgotten what a normal breakfast looked like. With Gabriel, they'd often sat at the kitchen table in the morning: simply sitting, or reading the morning paper, drinking coffee, sharing news and plans for the day.

After Gabriel died, Talin had avoided breakfast at the kitchen table, the memories too raw to take.

Now, Talin smiled when Katerina placed a plate before him, the scent of the omelet she'd made him enticing. Dimitri sat to his left, sipping coffee from a mug. Lukas was telling Dimitri about a boat that needed maintenance at the dock.

_Normal conversation_ , Talin thought, _mundane worries._

Talin swallowed hard. The moment too precious to think of anything else, he picked up his fork and promised himself to help Dimitri in whatever way he could. Dimitri deserved to keep these precious mundane moments.

***

The drive to Raphael's was faster than Talin anticipated.

Talin parked in the garage and sat for a moment, a hand pressed into his chest. His heartbeat was racing. He got out of the car and hurried into the house, not giving himself time to rethink his decision.

He found Raphael in the library.

"Talin," Raphael said, sitting up on the lounge chair. "Twice in one week. Who do I thank for this?"

Talin ignored Raphael's comment and instead went to the main desk by the floor length windows. He pulled open the top drawer and got a key. Talin used the key to unlock the bottom drawer. He took out the cell phone and laptop he'd kept away four years ago, and placed them on the desk.

"What's this?" Raphael asked, getting up.

"Unfinished business," Talin said turning on the cell phone. "Don't bother gloating. I want this over now."

"Protecting someone?" Raphael asked.

Talin met Raphael's knowing gaze. He pressed one, speed dialing a man he'd hoped never to talk to for the rest of his life. The call was answered on the second ring.

"Mr. Sato."

"Himura," Talin greeted.

"What do you need from me?"

"Find Ilia Pajari, ship him back to Colston."

"Alive or dead?" Himura asked.

Talin stared at Raphael.

"Alive."

"Done."

"And Himura," Talin said quietly. "This is urgent."

"Yes Sir."

Talin ended the call, and turned on the laptop.

"What do we own in Colston?" Talin asked Raphael.

Raphael's grin didn't escape Talin as he hurried around the desk to help him.

***

"The men in your boat last night are private party." Lucian shook his head, clearly not happy. "No identification, all we know is that they are from out of town. Their equipment is high end, which means highly paid. You're lucky you're such a great shot."

"What are you saying?" Dimitri asked.

"Someone is making a play," Lucian answered.

"On the marina?" Dimitri asked, afraid of the answer.

He couldn't handle two giants at the same time; it was hard enough with Vlad.

"No," Lucian met his gaze. "On Vlad's territory, that means war, Dimitri."

Dimitri felt a cold weight settle in his stomach. That wasn't good either.

"She's not one to take things lying down."

"Glad you've noticed," Lucian said. "She wants to see you tonight."

"Where?"

"Katerina's restaurant at nine o'clock," Lucian said. "Don't be late. She says to bring Talin."

"What?" Dimitri shook his head. "No."

"Talin was there last night. You didn't think Sasha would mention it to Vlad? Don't make this hard, Dimitri. No one will touch Talin if you bring him."

Dimitri sighed.

"Fine."

"Be easy tonight, Dimitri," Lucian advised. "Vlad's having a hard time."

Lucian squeezed Dimitri's shoulder and left the workshop.

Dimitri cursed under his breath and kicked the desk. Something big was about to happen, and he couldn't have Talin in the middle of it.

_Fuck!_

***

**11**

Talin spent his afternoon in the back office at the Talon. He sent out restocking orders to suppliers, checked the sales from the previous night, and prepared bank deposit slips. The math gave him a reprieve, momentarily returning him to his normal life.

Pulling out the top drawer of his desk to get new bank slips, he paused when he saw Detective James's card. Taking it out, Talin wondered what the detective would say if he knew the truth about Dimitri.

Would the detective arrest Dimitri on sight?

Talin frowned.

Probably not, the man needed evidence.

Didn't he?

A knock on his door had him dumping the card back in the drawer. He took two deposit slips as Lori walked in.

"Hey boss," she said with a wide smile.

She looked cheerful in a red and white top and a pair of white jeans.

"Lori," Talin said. "Hot date?"

"Nope," Lori perched on the edge of his desk. "I had time to shop yesterday. Thanks for hiring new people. Speaking of hot dates, Dimitri has sucked you away. I don't think you showed up yesterday."

"I did too, for a second."

And then Dimitri had dragged him away with determination.

"You slept over at Dimitri's, didn't you?" Lori clapped her hands. "Congratulations. How's the sex?"

Talin chuckled.

"Aren't you supposed to be working?"

"Was it a ten? Nine? Eight?" Lori made a face. "Dimitri looks too good for it to be less than eight."

Talin grinned.

"What if I say fifteen?"

Lori held back a scream.

"Damn it, now you got me horny. I'm jealous."

"Pervert."

"What?" Lori fanned herself. "I'm living through you, remember. Damn, you two are hot."

Talin laughed.

"Get yourself a man, Lori." Talin finished writing the deposit slips. "Will you drop these off at the bank? I need to get upstairs to change."

Lori nodded taking the deposit bag he'd prepared.

"It's good to see you smiling, boss."

Lori got off the desk and hurried out of his office.

Talin touched his lips amused.

Had he not smiled before?

***

In his loft, Talin took a shower, and changed into worn blue jeans and a t-shirt. He was making coffee when a scratching at his door caught his attention. Remembering the last message he'd received, Talin grabbed a baseball bat he kept in the kitchen corner and hurried out to the living room. He walked as stealthily as he could, and flung the front door open wide.

There was no one, but then he heard footsteps. Stepping out on to the veranda, he frowned when he saw a figure run down the stairs.

"Hey!" Talin shouted running after him barefoot. "Wait, hey!"

He reached downstairs in time to see the figure ride off on a motorcycle, recklessly joining traffic.

"Talin?"

Talin turned to find Dimitri walking up from behind the building.

"Why are you barefoot? What's with the baseball bat?"

"I was trying to catch the punk who's leaving messages at my door." Talin swung the bat in the direction of the road. "He got away."

Dimitri took the bat from Talin.

"Baby, you look hot when you're mad. Kiss me hello."

Talin pressed a chaste kiss on Dimitri's jaw, and turned to start back up the stairs.

"Hey," Dimitri grabbed his left elbow stopping him. "Aren't you happy to see me?"

"Ecstatic," Talin said, meeting Dimitri's blue eyes, his heart skipped at the heat he read in them. "Crazy happy, but I want to see what that punk was doing."

Dimitri let go of his arm. Talin hurried up the stairs, Dimitri following right behind him.

Talin cursed when he saw his front door.

_'You're going to die.'_

The words were spray painted on the heavy door in a crude messy red color.

"You can't stay here anymore."

"No one is running me out of my home." Talin shook his head staring at the mess on the door. "This is going to take days to clean up. I'm going to punch the hell out of that punk when I catch him."

"This is a threat, Talin." Dimitri grabbed his arm again stopping him from going into the house. "You can't stay here."

"It's not a threat. It's a warning."

"Warning, threat," Dimitri shrugged. "I don't like it, period. You're not safe here."

"Then move in," Talin said, tugging his arm out of Dimitri's hold. He entered the loft and went to the kitchen in search of a bucket.

"If you have no idea who is doing this, maybe I should call that detective. Just incase this is unrelated to you."

"Everything happening to you is related to me," Dimitri stated coming to take the bucket from him. "I don't see how that detective can help without getting killed too."

Talin watched Dimitri take the bucket to the sink to fill it with water.

"Dimitri."

"I'll clean up the door. I need you to take a shower and get dressed."

"I showered, thank you. And what's wrong with what I'm wearing?"

Dimitri stared into the filling bucket.

"Vlad invited us to dinner."

"Us?"

Talin frowned, and then panicked.

"Wait, what? Why me?"

"Because," Dimitri glanced at him with a frown. "Sasha saw you last night. I should have known she wouldn't let your presence go."

"If I refuse?" Talin asked, afraid of meeting this Vlad.

The woman made Dimitri's eyes go dark.

"I wish we could refuse," Dimitri said turning off the water. "If I show up without you, she's going to send an entourage to get you. They won't be gentle. I can't have that, Talin."

Talin studied Dimitri, noting his tense shoulders.

"I'll come along," Talin said.

Dimitri held Talin's gaze for a moment then looked away.

"You don't have to do this—," Dimitri started.

"There's no other choice. I can't let you go alone. Who knows what she'll do to you if you defy her orders?"

Talin moved to the sink, taking Dimitri's left hand. He ran a thumb over an old scar on Dimitri's knuckles.

"We're in this together now."

"That's not comforting," Dimitri said, making him look up.

Blue eyes held his, Talin hated the shadows he saw there...the guilt.

He leaned up and kissed Dimitri, giving him a soft kiss.

"What about that?" he asked. "Is that comforting?"

Dimitri smiled.

"Not quite there."

Talin bit back a chuckle and stepped closer. He wrapped his arms around Dimitri's shoulders, pressing his body against Dimitri's. Meeting Dimitri's beautiful eyes, he took Dimitri's lips in a full kiss. Savoring the taste of him, using his tongue to explore Dimitri's hot mouth. He moaned and closed his eyes when Dimitri held him tight, and returned his kiss.

And for a moment, nothing else mattered.

When Dimitri ended their kiss, Talin pressed his forehead to his.

"Did that work?" he asked in a trembling voice.

Dimitri smiled and his heart skipped a beat.

"Yes."

"Good," Talin said. "Do we have time to clean up the door? What time is this dinner?"

"Nine o'clock."

Talin glanced at the microwave time over Dimitri's shoulder. It was only six-thirty.

"We have time," Talin said.

He started to move out of Dimitri's embrace, but Dimitri wouldn't let go.

"Dimitri?"

"You smell so good," Dimitri nuzzled his neck, and Talin sighed.

"I don't think we can squeeze in sex."

"And why not?" Dimitri turned him around moving them back until Talin's hip bumped against the kitchen table.

"We're about to meet the queen of death," Talin joked with a moan when Dimitri nipped sensitive skin at his neck.

"Sex with me will distract you," Dimitri said wickedly.

Dimitri's hands dropped to the button on Talin's jeans, snapping it open, the zipper opened easily. Talin bit his lip when Dimitri's warm fingers cupped him, arousal slamming through him, untamed and blistering.

Damn, the man did know how to distract him.

Dimitri smiled and licked Talin's bottom lip, kissing him as he stroked him.

Pleasure ignited, throwing out all sense of propriety. Talin gasped when Dimitri got on his knees and took him into his mouth. His fingers sunk into Dimitri's dark hair, a moan escaping when Dimitri sucked on his sensitive cock. There was nothing like it, he wanted to sink deeper into Dimitri's mouth and stay there for years.

He came too fast; Dimitri swallowing him whole drove him over the edge. His orgasm raced through every cell in his body, leaving him weak and slumped against the kitchen table.

Dimitri tugged Talin's jeans down, removing them. When Dimitri came up, Talin reached for Dimitri's belt buckle, opening the zipper, ready to return the favor. But Dimitri reached for his t-shirt and tugged it off instead, leaving Talin naked.

Talin bit his lip with a smile. He started to turn ready to bend over the kitchen table, Dimitri stopped him again. His breath caught when he met Dimitri's gaze. Desire, need, such small words to describe the burning heat he read in those blue depths. That it was all because of him was breathtaking. Stepping back once, he lifted himself until he sat on the kitchen table. It was the perfect height. Shifting until he was comfortable, he pointed to a bottle of olive oil he'd left at the kitchen counter a while back.

Dimitri removed his shirt, and dumped it on the floor beside Talin's clothes. Talin's fingers itched to run over Dimitri's shoulders, feel those roped muscles, so beautifully carved by hard work at the marina. Dimitri got the olive oil, and Talin lay back on the table, lifting his legs and bracing his heels on the edge. It left him open to Dimitri, in every possible way.

The moment Dimitri touched him, all thought disappeared, replaced by sensation. Dimitri's calloused hands on him, in him, he got hard again. Toes curling, need clawing deep inside him, he wanted more, so much more.

Then Dimitri slid into him, thick, hard and scotching hot. Dimitri's cock stroked inside him...Talin moaned, reaching for Dimitri. His fingers digging into Dimitri's arms, his hips surging into Dimitri's thrusts...gods, it felt like he was going to burst with pleasure. Dimitri took him fast, and hard, leaning over him, kissing him endless kisses, that took in all his ecstatic moans. When he came, Dimitri kept stroking into him, his pace increasing, and Talin couldn't helping shouting when Dimitri came inside him, white hot jets of semen coating his insides, it send him over the edge yet again.

For a while, they lay on the kitchen table, not moving.

Talin trembled, his fingers sweeping through Dimitri's damp hair. Their lips sealed. Delicious tingles ran through his body. Dimitri broke their kiss, his arms wrapping around him. He moaned when Dimitri pulled him up until he was sitting.

"You undo me. The way you give yourself to me," Dimitri whispered into his ear. "Talin..."

"I know," Talin said, pressing a soft kiss on Dimitri's shoulder. "I know."

"Nothing can happen to you," Dimitri said, fear in his words. "I—

"Shh...it will be alright," Talin said, combing his fingers through Dimitri's hair. "Take me to the shower."

Dimitri sighed, pressing a kiss on Talin's shoulder. He held Talin close, hugging him tight.

Talin closed his eyes and worked at keeping a light mood. Tonight wasn't going to be easy, maybe Dimitri was right. A distraction was important.

"The door is open," Talin said, leaning back to meet Dimitri's eyes. "That's kinky, Dimitri."

Dimitri laughed, and Talin smiled, seeing Dimitri's eyes brighten.

"That's better."

Talin kissed him.

Dimitri grinned, his hands on Talin's hips.

"Wrap your legs around me."

Talin did as Dimitri asked. Their shared heat smoldered. Here he was naked, Dimitri still in his jeans. Dimitri lifted him up effortlessly. Talin rained kisses along Dimitri's jaw as they left the kitchen. Dimitri paused long enough to close the front door before they headed to Talin's bedroom and the shower.

***

An hour later, Dimitri finished wiping the red paint from the door. Dumping the ruined rag into the bucket, he stared at the door for a moment. The message was spray-painted in a hurry.

Glancing at the roof, he made a note to install a security camera. This punk terrorizing Talin needed to be dealt with, and fast. Things were already too complicated as it was.

Cursing under his breath, Dimitri entered the loft, and closed the door. Taking the bucket to the sink, he rinsed it out and threw the ruined rag out. Wiping his hands, he went in search of Talin.

The overhead lights were on in the bedroom. Talin stood by his closet, dressed in a navy blue shirt and a pair of dark slacks that fit him to perfection.

Dimitri moved closer, and Talin gave him a phantom of a smile as he buttoned his shirt.

Dimitri took Talin's right hand, pressed a kiss on slender fingers, and took over buttoning Talin's shirt. Their dinner with Vlad was in an hour. The closer the time came, the more Dimitri wanted to hide Talin away, but he was afraid Vlad would send men after him.

Meeting Talin's gaze, Dimitri read resolve in Talin's eyes.

"Don't talk unless I ask you to," Dimitri said. "Vlad is temperamental, in a bad way. Anything can set her off."

Talin nodded and a lock of hair fell over his left brow.

Dimitri reached up to brush it behind Talin's ear.

"Don't protect me," Dimitri continued, his fingers rubbing Talin's earlobe. "If she insults me or my family, don't defend us."

"Dimitri," Talin said in protest.

"Promise me," Dimitri said, dropping his hands on Talin's shoulders. "I don't want you to make an impression with her."

Talin reached up to cup Dimitri's jaw.

"Stop freaking out. It's only dinner, for me anyway, right? I promise not to let on I know what's going on. Can you trust me to do that?"

Dimitri stared into Talin's brown eyes and wondered if Talin could see just how far he'd fallen for him. How deep his heart had plummeted, he couldn't remember not needing to see Talin.

"I trust you," Dimitri said then, meaning it.

Talin leaned up to kiss him and they stood locked in each other's arms for a few minutes.

***

Dimitri drove into Katerina's restaurant at five minutes to nine.

Talin felt regret that he was returning to Katerina's restaurant this way. He'd hoped to come back with Dimitri for dinner, or maybe lunch. He loved Katerina's food, and she was also funny. It couldn't be easy for Dimitri to have both him and Katerina here tonight.

Dimitri looked handsome in a grey suit, the collar of his white shirt was unbuttoned, his dark hair brushed back. He cut a powerful figure.

Talin adjusted the sleeves of his black blazer, closing the button as they walked up to the main entrance. Katerina met them at the door. She looked nervous, though she gave them a wide smile.

"Glad to see you, Talin," she said, kissing Talin's jaw. "You look handsome as always."

He hugged her and she whispered in his ear.

"Any sign of trouble run out the back way. Dimitri has his Sean and Tomas waiting there."

Talin kissed her cheek and stepped back. Like he would leave any of them behind, he gave Dimitri a scowl and entered the restaurant first. Talin paused looking around the empty dining room.

"Are you closed?" he asked.

Katerina smiled, though it didn't reach her eyes.

"Dimitri's guests have reserved the restaurant for the night."

Katerina gave Dimitri a slight nod.

"They are in the private dining room you used before."

"Thanks Kat," Dimitri said.

Two men in black suits emerged from the restaurant's kitchen. They paused at the entrance into the dining room and Katerina gave them an apprehensive glance.

"There are more of them around the restaurant," Katerina said with a sigh. "Better get in there."

Dimitri took Talin's elbow and led him past the two men. They took the corridor that would take them to the private dining room.

Heart pounding in his chest, Talin took in a deep breath, trying to remain calm.

Two more men stood waiting at the door into the dining room. They stopped them from entering.

"Gotta check you for weapons," one of the men said, there was no smile to soften his request.

Dimitri gave Talin a reassuring gaze, and opened his arms, inviting the search.

Talin submitted to it with a grimace. He hated the roving hands on his body. The door opened and he followed Dimitri into the private dining room.

"Dimitri Sedlackov," A dark haired woman seated at the round table said her voice heavily accented. "Glad you could make it."

She stood up gracefully. She looked formidable in an expensive purple dress that clung to her voluptuous curves. Her eyes were sharp when they settled on Talin. They chilled him. Her lips coated in rich red lipstick curved into a smile.

"This must be Talin Sato," she said not needing an introduction. "The proud owner of the Talon, your reputation precedes you, young man."

Talin curbed his wince. He was thirty-one, hardly young. He wondered if she was insulting his mind-set.

"You're lovers?" she asked Dimitri.

Dimitri placed a hand on Talin's elbow urging him forward to the table.

Talin held his breath as Dimitri pulled out a chair for him.

"He is my boyfriend," Dimitri said.

"Wonderful," she said with a little clap that reminded Talin of a little child.

She reclaimed her seat and Talin realized Dimitri had placed them across Vlad. Dimitri sat to his right. He looked at ease, but Talin was well aware how tense Dimitri was.

"Talin," Vlad said, her smile genuine this time. "I'm sure Dimitri has not told you who I am."

Talin cleared his throat.

"No, Dimitri doesn't share much about what he does at the marina. He only said you're a business partner. I was happy to come along with him tonight though. I wanted to see Dimitri's serious side."

Talin forced a laugh.

Vlad laughed with him.

"You're lucky you see the more relaxed Dimitri. All I get is the business side. I like your charm, Talin. I am Irina Petrova. Please, call me Irina."

Talin froze in his seat.

_A Petrov!_

Maybe the name Petrov was common in Colston, sort of like Peter, and John. Jeez, she couldn't be the Petrov he was looking for, could she?

If she was...

Fuck! Did she know who he was?

Dimitri placed his hand on Talin's knee dragging him back from the edge. Talin forced back his fear, realizing he needed to convince this woman that he had no idea she was the head of the Colston Russian mob.

Talin smiled and looked at Dimitri.

"You didn't tell me your business partner was so beautiful."

Vlad laughed with pleasure.

"I like your boyfriend, Dimitri."

She motioned at one of the men standing by the door.

"We'll have champagne. We must celebrate. It is rare I get to indulge in such simple pleasures as love. Seeing you two together makes me nostalgic for my husband."

Talin nodded and Dimitri took his hand under the table, steadying him.

"Tell me, Talin," Vlad said. "How did you two meet? I love a good first meet."

Talin squeezed Dimitri's hand.

"We met at the Talon, on an ordinary day for me. Dimitri walked in with the men who work with him at the marina. I thought they'd cause trouble because they're a bit rough around the edges. But...he was the perfect gentleman."

"You served him drinks and fell in love?" Vlad asked, her eyes wide with interest.

"No," Talin shook his head. "He came back to the club for over a year. Always the same table, sat there for hours, not talking to me, only watching."

"You're the one who wouldn't talk to me," Dimitri said, making Talin chuckle.

"I was wary of him," Talin said. "There was a slight misunderstanding a few weeks ago. I confronted him and we ended up kissing."

"Oh how wonderful," Vlad said with glee. "Passion ignited with a kiss, and now you're together. Beautiful. I'm jealous. I never had a love story to tell, you see."

The door opened and two waiters walked in carrying a bottle of champagne and three glasses. Vlad accepted the glass of champagne the waiter poured for her. She met Dimitri's gaze and made a show of drinking the champagne first.

Talin wondered if it was to show faith. Talin took his glass and after a reassuring squeeze on his hand from Dimitri, he took a small sip. Vlad gave him an approving nod and continued.

"My husband and I, we married for necessity. I was young and poor, living a difficult life in Moscow. He was wealthy and needed a woman. We made a deal, he offered me money, and I became his woman. Love came later, as a result of years together."

Vlad lifted her glass, urging them to do the same.

"This is why I say, savor your connection," she said.

Talin wondered if she was warning them.

"To love," Vlad toasted.

"To love," Dimitri and Talin both said, though as Talin sipped his champagne, he wondered how they could savor love with death looming so close.

Vlad placed her champagne flute on the table and turned her attention to Dimitri.

"I heard about your problem last night." Vlad narrowed her gaze. "I find myself wondering why men would come at you on board _the Anastasia_. Perhaps they knew the boat from the days your father sailed it."

"Are you saying they were looking for my father?" Dimitri asked.

"Something like that," Vlad said with a frown. "Does it makes sense?"

"No." Dimitri held her gaze. "Everyone knows my father is dead."

"You see where the problem is, if that is not the case," Vlad said.

Dimitri didn't answer, and for a moment, Talin didn't see what the problem was.

"The marina is in my territory, Sedlackov. Whether you're in the middle of the lake, or on land, someone tries to get on one of your boats that way," Vlad said, her tone cold as an ice storm. "They're making a move against me. If you don't know who they are, it's a big problem. It means I need a show of force to reinforce my territory."

Dimitri's hold on Talin's hand tightened.

"We shouldn't discuss this with Talin here," Dimitri said then. "Will you allow Talin to go see Kat—"

"Talin stays," Vlad cut him off.

She pushed her chair back and stood. She paced to the windows, her purple heels wrapping a beat on the wooden floor. Talin watched her cross her arms against her chest.

She stared out the window for a moment, before she turned to face them.

"Our alliance, Dimitri, is based on trust," Vlad said. "This is the truth, yes?"

"Yes." Dimitri nodded.

"Trust is important," Vlad said. "I look at you, and think he's new at this. I've watched you grow in this life these past four years. Before Lucian introduced you to me, I rallied for you, wanting you to do better. This is why I have to show you how to discern the difference between love and lust. After all, I protect my own. You are deceived, Dimitri."

"Deceived?" Dimitri asked. "By whom?"

Talin felt bile in his gut roll ready to explode out.

"This Talin Sato seated beside you, your so called lover," Vlad said with a startling smile. "He has deceived you. I do my homework before I meet people. You've hidden yourself well, Mr. Sato. Owning the club is genius, no one would bother to look beyond the façade you've created."

Dimitri gripped Talin's hand tight under the table, a warning not to speak.

"What are you talking about?" Dimitri asked. "Talin is—

"Gabriel Yun's husband," Vlad said, her eyes gleaming with triumph, "a wealthy New York business man who knew how to make money. Mr. Sato here is the sole heir to Gabriel's fortune, the largest stockholder of Pan Limited, and my goodness I have been looking for you for a while."

Talin's blood ran cold when the men who'd been standing by the door moved closer, drawing their guns, and pointing them at him.

Dimitri started to stand but a solid hand on his shoulder stopped him.

"Be still, Dimitri. Sasha likes you, he'd hate to kill you," Vlad said, walking back to the table. "I wanted to see Talin first, see if he'd tell the truth before I made my judgment."

"What judgment?" Dimitri asked. "Are you seriously threatening to shoot my boyfriend in front of me? You're going to have to kill me too. I won't forgive you for this."

"What a waste that would be," Vlad said in amusement. "Calm yourself, Dimitri."

"Stop pointing guns at Talin and I will," Dimitri said.

Vlad smiled and turned to Talin. Her gaze hard, challenging him.

Talin fought the urge to scream his rage. This woman _was_ Petrov. The Petrov he'd looked for until he'd almost lost himself. She'd ordered Gabriel's murder.

"What do you want?" Talin asked her in a tight voice.

Vlad's smile widened and she sat down. She nodded to one of her men, and he took a step closer, pressing the muzzle of his gun onto Talin's forehead.

Fear filled him, his grip on Dimitri's hand tightened.

Dimitri started to get up despite Sasha but stopped when the door crashed open behind them.

Talin closed his eyes when a rush of men entered the room. The sound of guns cocking at the ready had him wishing for the days his biggest problem was finding a stick of nicotine gum.

Why had he agreed to come here again?

Opening his eyes, Talin met Vlad's dark gaze.

She grinned.

"Dimitri, I asked you to a simple dinner in good faith, and you bring a snarling tiger along."

"What do you mean?" Dimitri asked, sounding confused.

Talin exhaled when a gentle hand squeezed his left shoulder.

Dimitri turned to look at him, his gaze darkening slightly when he saw the man standing right behind Talin. Talin didn't miss Dimitri's scowl when he saw the hand on his shoulder.

"Dimitri, meet Gabriel's twin brother," Vlad said with triumph. "Raphael Yun, Talin's guardian angel. You're the one who wants a fight for my territory, yes?"

Raphael gave a delighted laugh and gave Vlad a bow.

"Vlad, I hope I'm not late for dessert," Raphael said with a wide grin. "I think chocolate cake is on the menu. I know how much you love chocolate cake. I brought one just for you."

"No thanks, Raphael," Vlad said. "Talin seems surprised by you. You never told him you watch him like a hawk."

"He's my brother's beloved. Of course I must take care of him." Raphael shifted, placing himself between Dimitri and Talin despite their clasped hands. "I protect him too, from everything, even himself."

"Raphael," Talin started.

"Hush, Talin," Raphael said. "You still don't understand?"

"What are you doing?" Talin asked, his gaze never leaving Vlad. "She's—

" _Bratva_ ," Raphael said. "I know."

Vlad's smile disappeared and she crossed her arms against her chest.

"And you, Raphael?" Vlad asked. "Will you tell him what you are? Don't you think it's time to let Talin know why Gabriel is dead?"

Talin gaped, and he let go of Dimitri's hand, his gaze flying to Raphael.

***

12

Talin met Raphael's gaze, wanting to rip him in two. If he'd done anything...anything at all to lead to Gabriel's death, he was going to kill him.

"What did you do?" Talin demanded.

"Not here," Raphael said his gaze pleading.

Talin, aware Vlad was watching them with a triumphant gaze, swallowed back his rage and settled in his seat, but not without a warning glance at Raphael. He was going to find out what Raphael had done.

Raphael sighed and looked to Vlad.

"That's cheap, Vlad."

"You won't tell him?" Vlad asked, her eyes widened in mock drama. "Then I will."

"Keep playing games and I'll kill you right here."

Raphael nodded to the men surrounding the room. He'd come with an army. Vlad was clearly overpowered.

"Kill me, and your precious Talin won't last the week."

"What?" Dimitri stood then, pushing his chair back hard enough to shift Sasha out of his way. His gaze dropped to the glasses on the table.

"The champagne," Dimitri said in shock.

Talin felt too weak with dread to react, a cold stone settled in his stomach.

Vlad smiled.

"Yes. I laced Talin's glass with my special blend. The poison is slow. Talin won't feel anything for three days. The symptoms will show up on the fourth day, starting with a fever."

Her gaze settled on Talin and he felt like he was going to suffocate as she continued.

"Your body's way of telling you major organs are failing, you'll be laid up in bed within hours after the fever starts. Unable to eat, or drink, breathing hard, pain so severe coursing through your body, and then you'll die."

"What do you want?" Dimitri asked, hysterical. "I'll do it. Whatever it is, I'll get it done."

Vlad glanced at Dimitri.

"You're not the reason why I poisoned Talin. Dimitri, I already have your family hostage. You're part of the organization whether you want it or not. No, the reason Talin is in this state is because I want something from Raphael."

"You won't get it." Talin stated getting up slowly. He didn't care if he died. He'd welcome the grave, if it kept her from getting what she wanted. "I won't let him give it to you."

"I'm the only one who has an antidote to that poison racing through your veins." Vlad smirked. "You might have money, but it won't save you on time."

"I don't care." Talin shrugged. "I'll die."

"No." Dimitri moved Raphael out of his way, and grabbed Talin's shoulders. "What are you thinking? Talin—"

"She murdered Gabriel!" The pain in his chest seemed deeper as he said those words now. His own death didn't matter. "I'll never help her, _never_ , Dimitri. I'd rather die."

Glaring at Vlad, he shrugged Dimitri's hands away, pushed past Raphael and left the dining room. He walked down the corridor on shaky legs, noting that now Raphael's men littered the restaurant.

Talin found Katerina seated on a stool in the kitchen. Her eyes were red, her eyelashes clumped with tears and one of Raphael's men stood watching over her. When he saw Talin he gave him a short bow, and moved away, leaving them alone.

Talin scowled.

"Is it over?" Katerina asked, jumping off the stool and into his arms. "What happened?"

"Nothing," Talin said, holding her tight, not ready to decipher what Vlad had meant about poisoning him. He felt perfectly fine. "I'm hungry. Will you cook something for me?"

"Talin?"

"Anything will do," he said, burying his face into her soft hair. She smelled of jasmine, and sunshine. "I want to eat something good."

Katerina sighed and patted his back.

"Okay. Are you sure everything is fine in the dining room. Should I worry for Dimitri?"

"Dimitri will be fine."

Talin let go of her and moved to sit on the stool she'd vacated.

"He'll be fine," Talin repeated, thinking of Dimitri's shocked expression at the mention of poison.

***

"Well, he's refreshing," Vlad said, staring after Talin.

She crossed her legs and settled in her seat, her gaze moving from Dimitri to Raphael.

"Most people start begging for the antidote right away. Will you both sit? I'm getting a cramp on my neck looking up at you."

Dimitri felt torn between going after Talin and staying to find out what Vlad wanted. Damn it, he shouldn't have brought Talin tonight. He should have exchanged their glasses, or stopped Talin from sipping his.

If Talin died—

He cursed under his breath and took Raphael's arm, pushing him into the chair Talin had vacated.

"Start talking," he said to Vlad.

Vlad chuckled.

"Lucian said you're a bulldozer. I guess I can see what he meant. I'm a tad hurt, Dimitri. I thought you'd be on my side on this."

"You've threatened the only man I've ever loved." Dimitri shook his head. "How can I be on your side? What is wrong with you?"

"Love is a weakness. The sooner you realize that, the better for you." Vlad snapped. "Raphael, you know what I want. Talin has three days to get the antidote. The doctor who made the antidote is very specific about the timeline."

"I can't give Pan Limited to you without Talin's consent." Raphael shrugged his shoulders. "Gabriel tied my hands. Pan Limited is owned and controlled by Talin. I can't sell it, or sign over shares without Talin's approval."

"If he dies, you get to take over."

Raphael chuckled.

"That's where you went wrong. Talin's next of kin is his father, all the way in Japan. You'll never get to him."

"Fine, then Talin will die in vain," Vlad said with a shrug. "I suppose I'll have to be happy with that."

"There has to be another way," Dimitri said, refusing to imagine Talin dead. It just couldn't happen. Not like this.

He turned to Raphael.

"Convince him to change his mind."

"I'm not the one to convince Talin." Raphael shook his head. "You are, Dimitri."

"You're his brother in-law," Dimitri said.

"Yes." Raphael sighed. "I'm also the person who's stood in his way for the past six years. I'm the one who has stopped him from getting the justice he wants for Gabriel's death. He'll never agree to anything I say."

"Goddamnit, try," Dimitri said. "I can't lose him."

Vlad hissed a censure.

"You don't have time to worry for your lover, Dimitri. Your priorities are with your family. Thanks to you, I have secured a large shipment coming in from Europe. You're going to get bring it in for me."

"No—

"You refuse," Vlad smiled, "when Katerina and Lukas are so close. I don't need poison for them. Bullets will work fine. Sasha is a great shot. Lucian as well, should I give him a call?"

He hated the smile on Vlad's face. She was treating them like toys on a mat, moving them this way and that way.

Gods, the death she'd planned for Talin, what were they going to do?

"You're a beast," Dimitri said feeling murderous.

"So I'm told. Prep for my shipment," Katerina said. "Business goes on as usual. Your lover was a mistake to start with. You should have looked deeper into his past before you got involved. I'm saving you, Dimitri. Take it as a gift."

She got up and gave Raphael a mock bow.

"I know you'll work your magic with Talin. Don't look so down. If things don't work out, and he dies, at least Talin will never know that you're the one who wanted Gabriel dead."

With a last glance at Dimitri, Vlad nodded at her men and they left the dining room. Dimitri sat staring at the seat she'd left.

Raphael's men left the dining room too, closing the door behind them.

"You should find Talin," Raphael said. "He is not as strong as he's pretending to be."

"What's really going on?" Dimitri asked. "Did you kill Gabriel?"

Raphael shifted in his seat to look at him.

Dimitri frowned taking in the graceful features of the man seated next to him. If this was Gabriel's face, had he the same hard green eyes? What had Talin loved in such a cold face?

"My brother's death is not something you have the right to discuss."

"Talin should know the truth."

Raphael glared at him.

"Concentrate on convincing Talin that death is not the answer. He can get so morbid sometimes."

Raphael got up.

"I have another appointment to keep. I'll see you both at his loft tomorrow morning."

"What about the antidote?" Dimitri asked. "Talin—

"He's not going to die," Raphael said decisively.

The expression on Raphael's face was almost enough to convince Dimitri. Raphael gave him a short nod before he too left the private dining room.

***

"Kat, you're truly amazing," Talin said. "Even your spaghetti and meatballs tastes different."

"I hope you mean that in a good way." Katerina joked.

"Don't ever doubt it," Talin said with an appreciative moan.

Dimitri stood at the door into the kitchen watching Talin eat spaghetti with a wide smile. As though nothing was wrong with him, as though Vlad hadn't just poisoned him...Dimitri held on to the doorjamb fighting back panic.

"What's that tang in the back taste?"

"Lemon," Katerina said leaning her elbows on the table. "Talin, are you alright? Should we go check on Dimitri? Those clowns have left."

Talin forked spaghetti into his mouth.

"Mmm...this is really good."

Dimitri stepped back in to the hallway, took a deep breath and forced his fear back.

Talin was trying to be strong, he should be too.

"Dimitri?"

He turned to find Katerina behind him.

"I thought I saw you. Is everyone gone?"

"Yeah," Dimitri said clearing his throat.

"I made spaghetti. You guys didn't get to eat anything after all. What a peculiar woman that Vlad is. If she wanted to have dinner, shouldn't food be included?"

Dimitri followed Katerina into the kitchen.

Talin didn't look up from his food when Dimitri sat beside him.

They sat at Katerina's kitchen table eating, listening to Katerina recount her encounter with Raphael's men.

"Who was the man who walked in with the sea of men?" Katerina asked. "He was like an avenging angel. Came rushing in wanting to know what room to find Talin in. His men made me burst into tears with fear."

"Did they touch you?" Talin asked.

"No, but they shouted a lot. Ordered me not to move, and to stay," Katerina said with a sigh. "I didn't like it at all. I want this to end. Can't it end soon, Dimitri?"

Dimitri stared at Talin who was busy eating as though there was no tomorrow.

"Dimitri?"

He sighed and pushed his plate away.

"I don't know if it will end."

"Why not?" Katerina demanded. "I'm not sure I can take anymore of these visits."

Dimitri wiped a hand down his face and closed his eyes.

"Kat, Talin is going to die in three days. Forgive me for not caring about Vlad's visits to the restaurant. We have bigger problems to worry about."

"Huh?" Katerina glanced at Talin in shock. "You told me nothing happened."

Talin shrugged.

"Are you still not going to help Raphael?" Dimitri demanded turning to Talin.

When Talin kept eating, he grabbed the fork out of Talin's hand.

"Talin," Dimitri demanded. "Will you say something?"

"Like what?" Talin asked. "Vlad probably wants Pan Limited. I'm not moving a finger to give it to her."

"Not even to save your life?" Dimitri asked.

"Not even that." Talin slid off his stool and adjusted his jacket. "You'll have to go home without me. I have business with Raphael."

"He said he'll meet us at the loft—

"There is no us, Dimitri," Talin said then. "Three days is not enough time to fit in the lifetime I'd have imagined with you. Let's end it here; hmm...it will be better for both of us."

Before Dimitri could react to that statement, Talin turned and left the kitchen in quick strides.

Katerina's touch on his arm had him catapulting out of his stool. He raced out to the main dining room, making it to the front door in time to see Talin drive off in Katerina's car.

***

13

Talin drove to Raphael's too fast. The fear that had crippled him before now raged inside him. It fanned a deep raging fire, one that wanted truth, if nothing else. Gabriel was dead. He couldn't change that.

However, he mourned the loss of his sweet Gabriel who'd done so much for him. If he was to die, then he wanted the truth for why he'd had to watch Gabriel bleed out to death.

Talin gripped the steering wheel tight. He stared at his hands wondering how far Vlad's poison had gone. How quickly was it racing through his body? How much damage had it done already?

Dimitri would mourn him after all. A soft sigh escaped when he remembered his promise on _the Anastasia_ not to mourn Dimitri. He hadn't counted on Dimitri being the one to mourn him.

But—Dimitri wouldn't mourn him for long, he decided swallowing hard.

At least they had managed not to jump too deep in to their relationship. Dimitri would hurt...for a while, then it would go away as it should. Then Dimitri would find another, live happily. That thought pained him.

Talin swallowed hard and nodded to himself. He'd done the right thing walking away from Dimitri.

Driving into Raphael's property, his thoughts returned to Vlad's comments about Gabriel's death. Her words had surprised him, but Raphael's panicked expression had shocked him more. One look and he'd known Raphael was hiding something from him.

_All this time,_ Talin thought as he parked Katerina's car carelessly.

He ran up the steps to the front door and flung it open without ringing the doorbell. He found Raphael in the living room talking to two of the men he'd come with to Kat's restaurant.

When they saw Talin, both men excused themselves and left quickly.

"Why aren't you with Dimitri?" Raphael asked him with a casual glance. He sipped wine from a glass on the coffee table, as though Talin's presence were an afterthought. "Life is short, Talin—

"I don't need advice from you," Talin said barely able to restrain his rage. "What do you know about Gabriel's death?"

"The same things you do," Raphael said.

He sat back in the armchair, his gaze on Talin.

"We've been over this a million times. The police caught Gabriel's killer and he got what he deserved when he was stabbed in prison. What more do you want, Talin?"

"Tell me what Vlad meant, or I'll go find her," Talin said. "You know I will.""

"Damn it, Talin," Raphael glared at him. "One minute, I'd like you to take one minute in your life to consider how difficult this is for me. It's annoying watching you live like a commoner when Gabriel spent his life creating an empire for you. It drives me insane when you get like this. Don't you think it's enough knowing how Gabriel died? Why do you need to know why?"

"I want you to tell me the truth," Talin said quietly.

Raphael stared at him.

When he didn't speak, Talin wiped a hand down his face with a sigh.

"I'll forgive you," Talin said. "Whatever it is you did, I'll forgive you."

" _You,_ forgive, me."

Raphael scoffed and got up, his leg grazing the coffee table, the resulting tremors shaking his wine glass.

"Who do you think you are to say that to me?"

Raphael's green eyes, so familiar, yet not...there was anger deep inside.

_Why had he never seen that_? Talin wondered.

"Raphael," he started.

"Don't!" Raphael hissed. "You piss me off. The sacrifices my brother made for you, what do they matter now? He's dead, and you stand here accusing me with your eyes. He was my brother first, Talin, before he became your lover."

Talin stood still, not saying a word. Raphael seemed caught on the edge of a storm.

When Raphael cursed and paced the length of the coffee table between them, Talin spoke in a gentle tone.

"Tell me what's going on?"

"I'm doing my best to keep you alive, that's what. It's what Gabriel would have wanted," Raphael said. "Yet, here you are, stubborn as ever. Are you really going to let Vlad poison you?"

"We're not here to talk about me. What else is going on, Rafa? Why does Vlad say you know why Gabe died?" Talin asked.

Raphael held his gaze for a moment, then he looked away with a soft curse.

"Gabriel worked at making sure you never found out the truth." Raphael shrugged. "Perhaps, it's time, and we've all been trying to delay the inevitable."

At the mention of Gabriel, Talin crossed his arms against his chest, suddenly afraid of what Raphael might say.

"We don't have a fancy name for our club," Raphael confessed with a smile that didn't reach his eyes, "there's Bratva, Triad, Yakuza or whatever."

Raphael scoffed.

"We're just family," Raphael said. "I always thought naming a criminal organization was a tad self-centered, and so fucking obvious."

"Explain better," Talin said, his legs turning rubbery.

"We, the Yun Family, we work on the wrong side of the law, Talin," Raphael stated. "We have been for generations. Have you never wondered why Gabriel would leave Pan Limited to you?"

"I thought he forgot to update his will," Talin said in a whisper. "Gabriel was—

"Part of the family," Raphael said.

"No." Talin shook his head. He'd known everything about Gabriel. Every micro-expression the man had made. "No."

"Talin," Raphael moved around the coffee table, coming to place his hands on Talin's shoulders. "Think back. Did you ever meet our parents?"

Talin met green eyes, so similar to the ones he'd loved. He shook his head.

"No."

Gabriel had always pushed it back when he'd offered to even travel with him to see them.

"We never got around to it," Talin said now. "We were always too busy."

"Don't you think it odd parents would leave their two children to a butler in a foreign country?"

Talin frowned. He closed his eyes, because he'd once pressed Gabriel for an explanation and gotten a shrug.

"Gabriel said your parents were too busy with work. They couldn't come to the US."

Raphael let go of him, and stepped back.

"Excuses," Raphael said. "Our parents couldn't come, they worried someone would harm their precious heirs. So we were kept safe until we turned eighteen. Gabriel and me, we were both meant to return to our family home when we were off age. Gabriel chose Cornell because of you."

"But you didn't," Talin said remembering that Raphael hadn't come along with them to Ithaca. "You stayed in Manhattan."

"That's what Gabriel wanted you to think," Raphael said with a smile. "I didn't stay, I chose the family business, Talin."

Talin took in a deep breath.

"What is the family business?" he asked afraid of the answer.

Raphael smiled. "Nothing as bad as what Vlad is plotting away in her lair."

"What is it?"

"We're into shipping. We don't discriminate on the type of merchandise. We don't care who we're working with. As a result, we've ended up with an impressive list of unsavory business partners that the law would arrest us for."

"And Gabriel knew all this?" Talin asked, staring at Raphael. "Of course, he knew..."

"Talin," Raphael said. "He loved you to the point that I thought I'd lost my twin to you. He never wanted what our family does to touch you."

Talin thought he heard bitterness ring in Raphael's voice and it shook him to the core.

Talin stepped back, his knees weak, he sank into the nearest armchair.

"Gabriel's death—

"Was a mistake," Raphael said, turning away from him. "The deal Ilia brought to Pan Limited was a small part. Vlad wanted an alliance with our family. They asked Ilia to reach out to Gabriel through Pan, thinking it would smooth the way into a partnership."

"And so?" Talin asked. "You wouldn't have agreed—

"I wanted the deal," Raphael said with a sigh. "Vlad had power, and friends I wanted, but our father didn't want the deal. He said we were doing fine without adding on trouble like Petrov. I asked Gabriel to back me in the decision, but he wouldn't. He agreed with father. As for the Pan Limited deal, he wanted to hear what you had to say..."

Talin frowned. "What did what I have to say have to do with it?"

"Gabriel ran all major decisions he ever made for Pan Limited through you," Raphael said as though it was common knowledge.

Talin felt the hollow in his chest grow. Gabriel _had_ come to him with loads of questions every time he wanted to make a major change. Talin had thought Gabriel wanted to include him so that he didn't feel left out.

"Pan Limited was yours from the start," Raphael said. "Never mine or Gabriel's though he ran it. He said it was the one good thing he created in his life, and it had come from you. That poor bastard," Raphael cursed under his breath. "We argued the day before he went to meet Ilia. I was livid with him. So that evening; I went out and got drunk. I bitched about my brother to a bunch of friends at the bar. I didn't know what I was saying."

"And?" Talin asked.

"The next thing I know, Lucian Pajari is calling me to warn me that Gabriel's life is in danger."

"What?"

"Someone from Vlad's camp was in the club with me. They took my ranting seriously, and thought if they removed Gabriel, the deal would go through."

"You!" Talin got up. "What did you say that would make someone think you want Gabriel dead? He was your brother, Raphael. Your twin."

"I know that better than you," Raphael said. "I know—

"No, you don't," Talin said kicking the glass coffee table. He sent the wine glass flying to the marble floor, the glass shattered. "You don't know anything. Gabriel was my life. He might have been your brother, but he was my husband. You took him away from me."

"Talin."

"Why didn't you save him? If Lucian warned you, why didn't you save him?"

"I called Gabriel," Raphael said. "I did Talin, but I was too late. The hit man was already at your house."

"You bastard," Talin ran a hand through his hair.

What was he supposed to do with this?

Good God, what was he supposed to do with this?

He'd wanted it to be Petrov. He'd wanted it to be Vlad, and then he could shoot her without remorse. But Raphael....Gabriel's beloved twin...he closed his eyes, tears tracking down his cheeks.

"Talin."

"Don't," Talin shook his head. "I—that is why you didn't want me finding out who'd hired that man. The man who was put in jail for Gabriel's murder, he wouldn't talk to me. You warned him not to talk to me, didn't you? Did you have him killed?"

Raphael looked away and Talin felt a knife twist in his chest.

"Finding out who killed Gabriel, would have meant you discover about us. Gabriel never wanted the Yun Family business to touch you. I did what I needed to do."

"So, you lied to me."

"What would you have done?" Raphael asked. "If you'd found out the truth then, what would you have done? You were fucked up, Talin. You couldn't even function—

Talin wasn't aware of having reached Raphael. He swung his fist with all his might, punching Raphael's left jaw. When once wasn't enough to purge his rage, he punched him again, and then again. With strength he didn't realize he had, he pushed Raphael to the floor, and lost his mind.

***

"Better for both of us," Dimitri scoffed.

Talin was dreaming if he thought that would get Dimitri to stop caring.

_The punk_ , Dimitri cursed under his breath and increased speed. He'd driven Katerina home. Driving too fast for her taste, she'd let him know it too. He'd ignored her protests, and the moment she alighted at the marina, he took off already tracking Talin's phone. His paranoia was paying off, he thought. Sean had shown him how to install a tracking app on Talin's phone. He hadn't thought he'd ever use it.

Dimitri glared at the map on his phone and wondered what Talin was doing out in the elite suburbs of Colston. He'd thought Talin would drive back to the club. At least there, they could fight without anyone interrupting. Gods, he wanted a good fight with Talin.

How dare he walk away?

Hadn't they promised not to mourn each other?

How could Talin accept his death without a single protest?

He still couldn't breath right at the thought of Talin poisoned.

Dimitri turned into the Seven Hills area weaving through traffic like a maniac. He worried that Talin might decide he had nothing to lose.

What had Raphael said?

Talin was not as strong as he pretends to be.

Dimitri slowed down when he reached an expensive looking residential area. He turned on to a Maybelle Drive driving past a high black gate that loomed in the night. His gaze returned to the gps app on his phone. Talin's phone was one minute drive away. He kept going to the end of the street and stopped before a white tall gate. Dimitri frowned when three men appeared from the shadows and stood in front of his car.

They looked like guards. He didn't like the guns they held. One of them stepped up to the driver's side and knocked on his window. He let out a soft sigh, and lowered the window.

"Wrong gate," the man said without asking for his name. "Please turn back."

"I'm looking for Talin Sato," Dimitri stated, thinking this was Raphael's residence. "Do you want me to call Raphael to confirm?"

"Yes," the man said without blinking an eye.

Dimitri reached for his cell phone, hoping to change the guard's mind. He didn't have Raphael's number. He scowled at the man, his finger hovering over the screen. The guard didn't flinch, waiting for him to make the call.

Damn it, what happened to being scared of talking to the boss enough to open the gate?

The guard's radio crackled with static, and he reached for it. He moved away talking quietly and a moment later the gates opened.

"You're cleared," the guard said, turning to him.

Dimitri dumped his phone on the passenger seat and drove in before they changed their minds. Someone was watching the surveillance cameras.

He found Katerina's car packed outside a huge three-story house. All the lights in the house seemed on as though the owner didn't worry about power bills. Dimitri got out of his car and stopped by Katerina's car. Opening the driver's side, he reached in and got the keys Talin had left in the ignition.

Slipping them into his pocket, he slammed the door closed and turned to the mammoth house. Raphael's style was a tad too modern for him. Walking up the steps to the front door, he expected a guard to stop him, but no one appeared.

Dimitri opened the glass door and walked into a lavish hallway that flowed into an equally opulent living room. Beyond that there was a staircase, and a corridor.

How the hell was he going to find Talin in here?

"Untie me," Talin's angry voice reached him.

Dimitri entered the living room and stopped short.

Talin sat in a straight-back chair, his arms tied with duct tape behind him.

Raphael held a white towel packed with ice to his jaw. He paced around the chair like an angry lion. His left eye was swollen.

"What do you think you're doing?" Dimitri demanded.

"So glad you could make it," Raphael said glancing at him. "Take your boyfriend and get off my property."

"I'm not leaving with him," Talin stated. "You're not kicking me out of here. I own the house."

"So what?' Raphael asked, stopping to glare at Talin. "You don't care what happens to me, or Pan Limited. You just want to die. Isn't that right? Go back to your club, Talin. Bury your head in the sand like the coward you are."

"Untie me." Talin struggled tugging at his arms, and Dimitri had had enough.

No one tied up Talin.

Dimitri pushed Raphael out of the way, and got to work on freeing Talin. Talin's fingers were bruised, there was blood on his knuckles. He glanced at Raphael.

"What's happening here?" he asked, slowly pulling off the tape when he reached Talin's skin.

"Raphael killed Gabriel," Talin said, his tone dripping with anger, but Dimitri heard the grief lacing those words. "He killed him, Dimitri."

"I did not," Raphael stated. "He doesn't want to see who the bad guy is here."

"Bad guy? Is that how you want to put it?" Talin winced when Dimitri tugged off the last of the tape from his wrists. He lunged to his feet, and Dimitri had to move fast, grabbing Talin's left arm as he tried to reach Raphael.

Dimitri wrapped an arm around Talin's waist.

"Baby, calm down."

"I don't need to calm down." Talin met Dimitri's gaze at last. "He killed him. Gabriel is dead because of Raphael. Can you even believe such a thing?"

Dimitri wiped the tear streaks on Talin's cheeks.

"I'm sorry."

"Sorry doesn't change anything. You have a gun, don't you?" Talin asked his tone too serious for Dimitri's comfort. "Give it to me."

"No."

"Give it to me," Talin said, his hands coming to Dimitri's waist, his fingers searching his waistband. Dimitri was glad he had left his gun in his car.

"No. You're not yourself right now, Talin."

Talin pushed against his chest, meaning to move him, but Dimitri stood firm.

"Do you care about me?" Talin asked him then.

"You know I do. I'm pissed at you for leaving me the way you did at the restaurant. How can you say we're over?"

Talin closed his eyes.

"If you care for me, even a small part, you'll shoot Raphael for me."

"Jeez, Talin," Raphael said behind Dimitri. "You want me dead?"

"You should have been the one who died," Talin shot back, looking over Dimitri's shoulder to glare at Raphael. "You should have been the one we buried, and not Gabriel. You should have been—

Dimitri wrapped tight arms around Talin, and held him. He sank his fingers into Talin's hair and rocked him. Talin stood stiff, but then he sagged against Dimitri and a harsh sob escaped. Talin buried his face into Dimitri's shoulder, and cried.

***

14

Revenge was a futile goal.

_One that ended in disappointment and more pain,_ Talin thought.

He'd loved Gabriel as a husband should: as a lover, and as a friend. He'd thought he knew everything about Gabriel. Every single secret, his nature, his heart...Talin closed his eyes.

He loved Raphael too, like he would his own brother, because he was Gabriel's twin.

How could it be possible not to know everything about the people he'd loved all his life? How could it be possible?

They'd hidden so much from him.

Gabriel had built a company for him, trying to keep him away from the corrupted side of his life. Now, Vlad, the corrupted of them all, wanted that company, and had threatened his life to get it.

Talin frowned.

Was it for Raphael?

"Perhaps," Talin whispered into the silence of the bedroom he was borrowing at Raphael's house. It was hard to trust Raphael's motives. Gods, the thought made him sick. Raphael was family to him.

Talin paced the length of the windows. Running a hand through his hair, he wondered what should be done now.

The door opened, and Dimitri walked in closing the door behind him with a slam. His pale blue eyes took him in, sliding over him with worry, probably gauging how ill he was.

Talin wrapped his arms around himself.

"Are you okay now?" Dimitri asked, standing by the door, not making an effort to approach him.

Talin nodded.

"I'm sorry."

"For what?" Dimitri asked. "Leaving me at the restaurant?"

Talin looked away.

"For dragging you into another mess, when you have Vlad hounding your every step. You should go back to the marina."

"Don't piss me off so early in the morning."

"Dimitri."

"I know you're hurting. I understand grief, I've felt it but I refuse to let you wallow in it."

"I'm not wallowing in anything." Talin turned away from Dimitri's gaze. "I've had a rough night."

"We've all had a rough night."

"You should head home and check on Lukas and Kat. They must be worried."

"About you too," Dimitri said. "Talin, look at me."

Talin shook his head, not ready to. Once he did, the reasons he should do his best to walk away from Dimitri would disappear. He'd get greedy and want to keep him when he had no right.

"Talin," Dimitri said and Talin heard him walking toward him. His boots rapped a beat on the hardwood floors.

Talin closed his eyes when Dimitri touched his shoulders.

"I love you."

Talin opened his eyes and stared at their reflection in the windows. Dimitri stood behind him, his warmth seeping into his body.

"Dimitri."

"I know it feels like it's too soon to say that to you." Dimitri gave a nervous laugh. "I've watched you too long, Talin. Waited on the sidelines, worried if I made a move you'd get hurt, or you'd reject me. Now that we're together—," Dimitri broke off. "I don't want to waste time. So, don't run away from me, Talin."

_And then there was Dimitri_ , Talin thought.

This man who'd broken into the cage he'd carefully built. If it weren't for Dimitri, he'd still be oblivious about Raphael. Would have never met Vlad...to think his interference with Ilia had led to Dimitri's relationship with Vlad hurt.

Dimitri stepped back, his hands dropping from Talin's shoulders.

Talin turned then and grabbed Dimitri's left hand. He met hurt pale blue eyes.

"I can't say the words back, yet," Talin said.

Dimitri winced.

"I know."

Talin nodded and pulled Dimitri into his arms, holding him tight.

"I won't run away again."

Dimitri pressed a kiss on top of his head.

Talin stared at the blue shirt Dimitri wore, rubbing his fingers over the soft fabric.

"Do you feel okay?" Dimitri asked. "Does anything hurt?"

Talin took in a deep breath. He had a mild headache, but that was expected after all the crying. He had also only slept a few hours.

"I'm feeling fine, Dimitri."

"You're not lying to me, are you?"

Talin chuckled.

"I'm not lying."

"Good, Raphael has a doctor coming. Since you don't want to make a deal with Vlad, we need to find an antidote."

Talin bunched Dimitri's shirt tight sure the next few days were going to be the hardest he'd had yet.

***

"Gabriel's husband is playing hard to get. He has no idea the pain that poison will cause him. He'll come here begging for the antidote."

Vlad paced the length of her living room, her arms crossed against her chest. She glanced at Lucian, noting his pensive expression.

"Where is your head, Lucian? I need you here."

Lucian moved to sit in an armchair.

"Talin is not easy. Our best bet is Dimitri convincing him to cooperate."

"Where is Sedlackov?" Vlad scoffed. "I didn't like his attitude at the restaurant."

"We need him for this last shipment to go through without a hitch," Lucian reminded her.

"You get softer everyday," Vlad said, stopping to study him. "Are you still thinking about your brother?"

"Ilia made his choices. He deserved what he got." Lucian rolled his shoulders as though he didn't care.

Vlad didn't listen to his words, no, Lucian's truths were in the way he sat, his shoulders hunched. She'd trained him not to think of love, or allow it to rule his life.

It seemed she'd failed.

He grieved for Ilia.

_Useless emotion_ , she thought.

"Pajari Industries has incurred losses since Ilia disappeared." Vlad moved to sit on the couch across Lucian. "I need Pan Limited to hold it up."

"Why Pan Limited?" Lucian asked. "There are many other companies you can acquire."

"None as pure as Pan, there is no dirty money there, sales increase daily, the company is a powerhouse. Plus, I want to get back at the Yuns' for rejecting my offer."

"Must we go after Pan Limited?" Lucian asked. "Nicolae—

"Don't speak of Nicolae to me," Vlad said, hating to even think of her brother in-law.

Nicolae Petrov lived in a world where women couldn't do much more than give birth and clean the house. She wished he could die fast, but he'd managed to turn into an untouchable bastard.

"Nicolae," Lucian said, "wants us moved out of Colston, and back in New York. This small town has too many curious eyes."

"I haven't forgotten the plan," Vlad said hating Lucian's ability to withstand her temper. "Once the shipment is clear, tie up all loose ends, and we're done."

Vlad gave Lucian a smile, knowing it was going to annoy him.

"You do know what I mean by loose ends, don't you?"

Her smile widened when she saw Lucian clench his jaw.

"Sedlackov knows too much," she said. "So does his family."

"You can't wipe out the whole family."

"Burn the house down. Call it a freak fire," Vlad glared. "I don't like it when you question me. Katerina, Lukas and Dimitri are liabilities. No matter the agreement, they can't be left alive."

"The marina—

"Will die off when they're no longer there," Vlad said with a shrug.

"You're cold." Lucian got up and adjusted his suit jacket. "Fine, the faster we get this done the better. Colston is starting to weigh on me."

"Find Sedlackov," Vlad said. "Make sure he's making arrangements to escort my merchandise to shore without a problem. Do start thinking on how to get rid of him too. It's good to plan ahead."

"What about Talin?"

"Leave him be for now," Vlad said. "The poison hasn't started working yet. Let them scramble trying to find a way out. They'll come to me sooner or later."

Lucian nodded and started out the door.

"And Lucian," Vlad said when he reached it. "About your brother."

Lucian paused, his shoulders tense.

"I'm sure he's in a better place."

Lucian didn't acknowledge her comment. He left the living room in long strides that made her smile harder. He was such an emotional child.

***

"You're not where you're supposed to be."

Dimitri winced at Lucian's greeting.

"Are you at the marina?"

"Yes."

"I'm with Talin."

"He's not at the club, or at the loft. Don't tell me you're trying to sneak out—

"Jeez, Lucian," Dimitri sighed. "Why would I leave my brother and his wife to you?"

"Tell me where you are and I'll not jump to conclusions."

Dimitri glanced at Talin. They were in Raphael's living room. Talin sat in an armchair, looking away as the doctor Raphael had called drew his blood.

"You won't like it."

"Spit it out." Lucian warned.

"Raphael is trying to help Talin."

Lucian cursed. "You're at the Yun house?"

"Where else do you think I'd be?"

"Get to the marina, Dimitri."

Dimitri started to protest but Lucian had already ended the call.

"Something wrong?" Talin asked, when he tried to redial Lucian.

"Lucian is at the marina." Dimitri shook his head. "He wants me there to deal with arrangements for Vlad's shipment."

"Don't aggravate him. I'll look after Talin," Raphael said, coming in from the kitchen holding a mug of tea which he took to Talin.

Talin refused to look at Raphael, and only took the mug because it would seem rude to the doctor.

Raphael sat on the coffee table watching the doctor stow away Talin's blood samples.

"How fast can we get the results?" Raphael asked.

"I'll have a clear diagnosis by tonight." The doctor stood up, taking his briefcase. "Once we know what we're dealing with, we can find a way to counteract the poison."

"She gave us three days," Talin said in a low tone. "We're twelve hours into those three days, doctor."

"I understand the urgency, Talin." The doctor squeezed Talin's shoulder. "Try not to panic."

Talin nodded and they all watched the doctor leave the living room in quick steps.

"Do you think he can do it?" Dimitri asked Raphael.

"He has no choice but to do his best." Raphael stated in a hard tone. Dimitri was afraid to ask what would happen if no results were forthcoming. "Talin please put away your anger. Your boyfriend needs our help. We need to work together."

Talin sipped the tea Raphael gave him.

"Has Himura done what he promised?" Talin asked.

"Yes, he flew in last night," Raphael said.

"Who is Himura?" Dimitri asked Talin.

"Someone with a sick sense of humor," Raphael said. "Don't worry about him. We need to find a way to take out Vlad."

"She has no weakness." Talin glanced at Dimitri. "We need a serious weakness since she has ours so tightly in check."

"Do you think we can find one?" Dimitri asked.

"Maybe," Talin said with a shrug, his gaze on Raphael. "Maybe not. Raphael, why would Vlad want Pan Limited, is she doing this for you?"

"For me?" Raphael's eyes widened. "Really Talin, you keep hurting me with your words."

"She would do it for you," Talin said, his tone accusing. "You get the company your brother kept away from you; she gets the alliance with your family."

Raphael wiped a hand down his face.

"I suppose I deserve that comment."

"Raphael." Talin prompted.

"I would never do this to you," Raphael said then, and Dimitri could swear he read unconditional love in Raphael's green eyes. "If you don't believe anything else, at least remember that I always want to keep you safe."

Talin placed his mug on the coffee table and got to his feet.

"I should head back to the club."

"No way," both Dimitri and Raphael protested.

Talin shook his head in amusement.

"Are you going to duct tape me to a chair again if I insist?"

"I might," Dimitri said. "You can't work right now. Anything that will make the poison work faster is out. In fact, you should lie still."

"No way," Talin said shaking his head.

"Yes way," Dimitri said.

"Ah...I'm getting jealous," Raphael said. "Talin, I thought you only argued with me?"

"Stop joking around," Talin scoffed. He smelled his shirt and groaned. "I need to take a shower."

"I do have water in this house, and clothes you can wear." Raphael glanced at Dimitri. "You should clean up too. It might convince him to stay."

Dimitri winked at Talin and was glad when a smile tugged Talin's lips. He was glad he could still get Talin to smile.

***

Talin left Dimitri in their borrowed bedroom. Adjusting the black sweater he wore, Talin went down the stairs heading straight to the basement. Raphael had told him where to find Ilia. Opening the first door he met in the corridor downstairs, Talin stared at the man he'd once blamed for Gabriel's death.

Ilia Pajari sat on a cot in the corner of the room. His blonde hair disheveled. He looked tired; it was obvious he hadn't slept. The bruises on his face were enough evidence that Himura hadn't been gentle. Ilia glanced at him.

"You broke your promise," Ilia accused.

Talin closed the door and leaned on the wall.

"I'm sorry."

"I'm going to die if they find out what I did."

Talin shrugged. "We're all going to die. I met your brother."

"Lucian?" Ilia gaped in shock. "You've found out who Petrov is."

Talin scoffed. "I suppose you can say that. She wants something precious from me."

Ilia shook his head. "Don't fight her. She gets what she wants no matter what. If you refuse, she'll kill you."

Talin crossed his arms against his chest.

"Shouldn't two dead men help each other?"

"I helped you once and you've backstabbed me."

"Don't be angry, Ilia," Talin said. "If we can manage to crash Vlad, you might live."

"Might being the key word here," Ilia scoffed.

"Come on, Ilia. You don't want Himura to keep you company." Talin cajoled.

"He needs anger management lessons," Ilia said. "You're as unkind as he is, Talin. Himura is your product."

"Himura is a good man." Talin pushed off the wall. "I want to know about Vlad."

"There's nothing to know."

"She's what, in her fifties?" Talin said pacing closer to Ilia. "She can't have lived that long without getting juicy skeletons in her closet. Come on, Ilia. Cooperate."

"What do I get from it?"

Talin paused.

"You and I, we are in the same boat. Bringing Vlad down will set you free. I thought living would be incentive enough."

Ilia stared at him for a moment, then touched his bruised jaw.

"I want to meet Lucian."

"Why?" Talin asked.

"He's my brother, Talin. Make that happen and I'll give you what you want."

***

"Is it possible?" Raphael asked Talin when he came out of the room they were using to hold Ilia. "Lucian is hard to get to."

"He's always at the marina lately," Talin said. Glancing at the man standing behind Raphael, Talin continued. "We'd have to take him with the least bit of force. We can't put Dimitri's family in more danger."

"I'll follow you to the marina," Himura said.

Talin nodded and turned to Raphael. "What if Ilia is playing us? He's not played it straight either."

"We don't have the luxury to wait around, Talin." Raphael started to head down the hall but then he stopped. "Are you going to tell Dimitri about Ilia?"

"Of course," Talin said with a frown. "Don't you want me to?"

"I'm not sure it's the right thing."

"I'll be the judge of what's right, Raphael."

Raphael shrugged and walked away.

"I'm ready when you are," Himura told Talin. "I'll wait outside."

Talin headed back upstairs with an uneasy feeling crawling through him. Ilia's demand to see Lucian was perfectly reasonable. After all, Ilia hadn't seen his brother in years.

Talin came up to the front hall in time to see Dimitri come down the stairs.

"Are you ready?" Dimitri asked, zipping up the leather jacket he'd gotten from Raphael.

"Yes."

"Raphael?"

"He's occupied," Talin said heading to the front door.

Outside, he went straight to Katerina's car. Opening the driver's door, he paused when he saw the keys were missing.

Dimitri dangled them on his finger.

"I'm debating whether to give them to you."

"Katerina will need her car," Talin said. "We can't trust Raphael to bring this down to the marina."

Dimitri threw the keys and he caught them.

"Drive straight to the marina, Talin. Remember your promise not to run."

***

At the marina, Talin parked Kat's car right next to Dimitri's. He got out slowly, his gaze sweeping the main road, in time to see a white van drive past on the main road at a slow pace. Himura would find another way into the marina.

"I'm sure Katerina will be glad to see her car back," Dimitri said motioning for him to follow into the marina's office.

Talin hurried to Dimitri's side, taking his hand wanting a connection. It felt like a lifetime since he'd felt Dimitri's touch.

"Are you okay?" Dimitri asked as they went up the short steps.

"I'm fine. Please stop asking me that question."

"I can't help it." Dimitri opened the front door and entered into the main office.

Talin almost bumped into him when Dimitri stopped abruptly. Talin looked around Dimitri to see what had his boyfriend so surprised.

It was surreal to see Lucian Pajari seated behind the reception desk as though he belonged there.

"Morning Dimitri," Lucian said with a smile. The gun on the desk did nothing to soften his presence. "I'm so glad you could make it."

"Lucian." Dimitri reached for Talin's arm, holding him in place. "What's with the gun?"

"Think of it as motivation," Lucian said, picking up the 9mm to study it with admiration. "If you don't work fast enough, I'll show you how fast I can empty it into your family members."

"What has you so angry this early?" Dimitri asked keeping his cool.

Talin hated the fear already crawling through him. He wondered if Katerina and Lucian were alright. Did Lucian have them hidden somewhere?

"Look, you brought me your lover," Lucian said. "I heard what Vlad did to him. Talin, I wish we'd met under better circumstances. Did you know Dimitri and I were lovers?"

Talin glanced at Dimitri in surprise.

"Fuck you, Lucian."

"Been there, done that," Lucian said with a grin. "It was real good, until your father killed my brother. Then it just wasn't the same."

Dimitri clenched his fists and Talin took a step toward the desk to stop him.

"What if you're wrong?" Talin asked.

"Wrong about what?" Lucian asked with a sneer.

"Wrong about your brother's death," Talin said.

"Talin," Dimitri grabbed his left arm.

"Control him, Dimitri. I'm already in a bad mood. Don't test my temper."

"Talin."

"Your brother is alive," Talin declared.

Lucian got up and came around to where Talin stood.

"If you don't shut up, I'm going to shoot you right now. I don't care that Vlad needs you for her petty schemes. Don't say another word about my brother."

Dimitri tightened his hold on Talin's arm. Talin glanced out the window for a moment, then because he needed to save Dimitri, he met Lucian's icy stare.

"Shoot me then," Talin said. "But if you do, you won't get to meet Ilia."

Lucian raised his left hand to hit Talin. Dimitri caught it before Lucian could touch him. Pushing Lucian back, Talin gasped when a single shot went through the window, and Lucian fell on the hardwood floor.

Talin stared at Himura standing a few feet outside the office.

Afraid that Himura had lost his mind, Talin rushed to push Lucian to his stomach, and sighed with relief when he saw the tranquilizer dart lodged into Lucian's shoulder. Pulling it out, he grinned and held it up to Dimitri.

"You and him?" Talin asked. "Really Dimitri? The ice lord?"

"You almost got shot, baby. Lucian is not one to make empty threats," Dimitri said taking Lucian's gun.

"Don't change the subject," Talin got to his feet, and threw the dart on the table. "What the fuck did you see in him?"

***

15

"Are we going to talk ex-boyfriends now?" Dimitri asked his gaze on the hole on the window glass.

The office door opened, and Dimitri shifted, placing Talin behind him and their visitor. He pointed Lucian's gun at the scarred man standing at the door.

"That's Himura," Talin said, touching Dimitri's right shoulder. "He's with me."

"With you?" Dimitri asked.

"Yes." Talin squeezed his shoulder. "Himura, who is out there?"

"Three men in suits, Russians," Himura said not moving from the door. His gaze remained on Dimitri who hadn't lowered his gun. "Two more men by the dock, tending to a boat named _Anastasia_."

"The men in suits must be here with Lucian," Talin sighed and patted Dimitri's shoulder again. "Come on, we don't have time to play turf wars. Himura is on our side. We need to find a place to put Lucian before he wakes up."

Dimitri glared at Himura. He wondered how Talin and Himura had met. The man looked too rough, too wild to be friends with Talin.

"Dimitri." Talin snapped.

Lowering his gun, Dimitri gave Himura a warning glance and turned to find Talin checking Lucian's pockets.

Talin was taking to this life, Dimitri thought. Hardly frightened, Talin was fast in his search.

"You surprise me everyday," Dimitri said when Talin got to his feet and held up a cell phone and three full bullet clips with a grin. "Marry me."

Talin laughed.

"Stop playing around. One of you has to carry Lucian."

Dimitri moved to grab Lucian's arms, but Himura pushed him aside. Dimitri stepped back and watched Himura swing Lucian over his shoulder fireman style.

"Where to?" Himura asked.

Dimitri led the way to the back of the office, opening a backdoor; they went along a path hidden with flower bushes. The path connected the main house to the office. He opened the side door into the house and stepped aside to allow Himura in, followed by Talin.

"No one's noticed," Talin said, as Dimitri closed the door. "We might have two hours or so."

Dimitri nodded and led the way to the basement.

In minutes, they had Lucian zip-locked to a chair. Himura was left to guard him, while Dimitri and Talin went upstairs.

They found Katerina in the kitchen sipping a cup of coffee alone. She looked like she hadn't slept. She got to her feet when she saw Talin and hurried to him.

"Where did you go last night?" she demanded pinching Talin's cheek. "Dimitri was worried. I almost drove Lukas crazy with worry because I couldn't sleep thinking about you two. Don't ever do that again, Talin. Family sticks together in a crisis."

Talin stared at her, warmth bursting inside him, happy that she'd called him family.

"I'm sorry. I—

"I know, you were scared," Katerina said, pulling him to the dining table to sit. "I understand this. I'm scared too." She looked to Dimitri. "What's the plan?"

Dimitri chuckled.

"You should ask Talin. He has Lucian tied up in our basement. I don't know what's next."

Katerina turned to Talin, her eyes wide.

"You?" she asked. "Talin, Lucian's men are always calling him. If they find out—

"Then we need to make sure they don't find out. Where's Lukas? Can he distract them?"

Dimitri smiled when Katerina looked at him in question.

"Talin is running this show."

"Lukas is upstairs." Katerina stared at Talin. "I'll go get him."

"Hurry," Talin urged.

Katerina left the kitchen in a run, and Talin turned to Dimitri.

"If nothing else, I'll get you and your family free from Vlad."

"Don't talk like that."

"I made Ilia disappear." Talin closed his eyes. "Because of that—

Dimitri gripped his shoulders and shook him. "Don't do that. Don't blame yourself. It was my choice to go after them. My choice to join—

"If I hadn't made Ilia disappear, your father would still be alive and you wouldn't have needed to make the choice." Talin kissed Dimitri's jaw. "My mess, I'll help clean it up."

Talin let go of Dimitri and reached for his cell phone.

"We'll get it all done in one swift move."

"Who are you calling?"

"Raphael. He has someone who'll help clear all questions in one sweep."

***

"Wake up," Dimitri said, using his boot to tap Lucian's knee thirty minutes later. "Lucian. We don't have much time."

Lucian woke up with groan, a frown graced his forehead, and Dimitri imagined the man had a roaring headache. Tranquilizers weren't kind to the body. Lucian lifted his head and glared at him.

"This won't go unpunished," Lucian warned.

"I know," Dimitri said with a grin.

"If Talin put you up to this, I'll kill him, Dimitri."

"Stop threatening my boyfriend." Dimitri sat back in his seat and nodded to the man seated in a chair beside him. "You might want to see the gift Talin brought you."

Lucian groaned and shifted in his seat, trying to get comfortable. His arms had to be numb.

Lucian scowled at Dimitri then he turned his head with a sigh only to gape at the sight of Ilia Pajari.

"Hello brother," Ilia said in greeting. "I have to say, I don't think I've seen you anything less than elegant."

"Ilia?" Lucian asked.

"I'm your brother. This is no trick."

"You're dead." Lucian frowned. "I saw proof. I saw you shot."

"Body double and creative Photoshop," Ilia said. "I enlisted the help of a family friend. He was quite useful in making the act real."

"Ivan?" Lucian asked in shock. "You asked Ivan to help you escape?"

Dimitri turned to Ilia.

"You knew my father?"

"He was a good man." Ilia crossed his arms against his chest, his wary gaze on Himura who stood behind Lucian. "Ivan worked hard and was loyal to the organization when the _real_ Vlad was alive."

Dimitri shook his head.

"You're lying. My father would never—

"How do you think he was able to keep the marina going even though it is as old as time. Customers are hard to come by in the winter, Dimitri. There's only so much ice fishing one can do." Ilia shrugged. "Ivan and Vlad Petrov were friends, old friends. When Vlad died, your father took a step back, and we didn't bother with the old man. I went to him for help because he understood why I had to leave."

"So you got him murdered," Dimitri said anger boiling. He'd waited ages to find out the reason his father would die so senselessly. Why Ivan chose to put his family in such danger.

"It wasn't my intention to get him killed." Ilia's tone was apologetic. "He understood the risks, but I didn't think Vlad would make a decision to murder someone like Ivan. He was family. Lucian, have we turned to savage behavior?"

"Vlad felt Ivan was flaunting authority." Lucian shook his head. "She killed him to curb a revolt. You should have known better."

"You should have stood up to her. You're Pajari, Lucian. I'm disappointed."

Dimitri turned to Lucian's shocked face.

"All I knew was that Ivan shot you. You were dead. What did you want me to do?" Lucian accused. "You left me with her. You left and I had to survive. Our father's company is in her hands, and there is no one to protect it. What did you expect would happen? Disappointed? I'm the one who can't believe what you've done here."

"Enough Lucian," Ilia sighed. "You must release Sedlackov from his debt. He owes you nothing."

"Too late," Lucian said with a scoff. "Vlad wants him and his family dead."

Dimitri got up then. "What?"

Lucian closed his eyes and looked away from them.

"You know too much. After the shipment, I'm to make sure the marina and the house burn down. Katerina, Lukas and you are to die in the fire."

Dimitri grabbed Lucian's neck, choking him, wanting him dead.

"If you kill me now, you'll make things worse," Lucian chocked out.

"You stay away from my family," Dimitri warned. "I swear to God—

"Dimitri," Talin said, his voice breaking into the murderous haze in his head.

Dimitri turned to see Talin standing at the door.

Letting go of Lucian, Dimitri took a step back and dragged in a deep breath. Talin placed a hand on his left arm.

"What's wrong?" Talin asked.

"Katerina and Lukas," Dimitri said. "We need to get them to safety."

"Vlad will know if they run," Lucian warned. "She has people watching the marina and Katerina's restaurant. They go missing, she'll know right away."

"I'm not losing my family to that bitch," Dimitri cursed under his breath. "I've already lost my father."

"Not my fault," Lucian stated, returning his gaze to Ilia. "You should blame that on Ilia. He knew what Vlad is like. You knew how insane she is."

Talin pushed Dimitri to his chair. "Enough with this revenge, fighting amongst ourselves is wasting precious time."

Lucian scoffed, looking at Talin.

"How do you feel? Has the headache started?"

Talin ignored the question and instead crouched before Lucian.

"Now you know your brother is alive. Give us something in return."

"What makes you think it matters to me whether Ilia is alive or not?" Lucian asked.

"He's your family." Talin stated.

Lucian glanced at Ilia.

"A brother who leaves his family for years without a word, I have no use for such family."

"Does that mean you won't help us?" Talin asked.

Lucian shrugged.

"You're going to have to kill me, sweet Talin. Because once you untie me, I'm going to beat the crap out of you, then shoot you dead."

Talin stepped back fast and Dimitri took his left arm to stop him from falling.

"I will help you," Ilia said.

"Ilia," Lucian warned.

"I'm tired, Lucian." Ilia got up from his seat and moved to crouch before his brother. "I'm tired of this bullshit."

Dimitri watched Ilia kiss his brother's jaw, and sweep his fingers through Lucian's hair.

"She's turned you into a monster. She's got to end." Ilia got up and turned to Talin. "You've had the key."

"What key?" Dimitri asked confused.

Ilia held Talin's gaze. "Vlad's weakness is money."

"Ilia," Lucian warned. "You do this; she'll know it's you."

Ilia ignored his brother.

"I gave you a number before I left, Talin. That's your weapon. Use it fast, and kindly make sure she doesn't know I helped. I kinda want to live." Ilia smiled. "Now, leave me and my brother alone for a while."

"What are you going to do?" Dimitri asked.

"Get Lucian to see straight." Ilia gave Talin a wink. "Go on now. Leave Himura outside the door if that makes you happy."

Talin grabbed Dimitri's arm and dragged him to the door. Himura followed though his gaze remained on Ilia who stood before his brother...waiting.

Dimitri closed the basement door.

"Are you sure about this?" Himura asked Talin. "Ilia—

"He's not going anywhere." Talin shrugged.

"I'll wait here just in case," Himura said leaning on the door, his arms crossed against his chest. The grim look on his face told Dimitri they had nothing to worry about.

Dimitri took Talin's arm and led him down the corridor. He felt uneasy...disconnected from Talin all night, the more truths emerged, the obvious it became how different their worlds were.

Talin frowned.

"What's wrong?"

Dimitri tried for a smile.

"Nothing, are you hungry? I'm sure you're hungry. You didn't eat breakfast."

"Do you know every time I come here, you or Kat try to feed me?" Talin stopped their progress down the hall and caressed his jaw. "Stop worrying. I'm fine."

Dimitri pushed him against the wall, bracing his hands on either side of Talin.

"I want to take you away from here. Go some place we can be us two," Dimitri said.

"Sounds good, but—

"No buts, Talin," Dimitri kissed Talin then, wanting to forget this hell they were living. Wanting to feel only Talin, to keep him safe and know that nothing would ever take him away.

Talin wrapped his arms around Dimitri's waist.

Caressing Talin's jaw, Dimitri sighed and pressed a soft kiss on Talin's forehead.

"Once this is over," Dimitri said. "You and I, we are going to get in a car and drive away from this town."

"And where will we go?"

"I don't care."

Dimitri buried his face into Talin's shoulder and took in a deep breath.

"Alright," Talin rubbed his back. "Okay, we'll go. I'll be the one to drive. I'll take you to my favorite place in this world, just us two, Dimitri."

They stood that way for a few minutes, and then Talin stirred.

"I need to go to the club."

"You promised not to work."

"I'm not going to work." Talin kissed his jaw and pushed him back. "I need to verify what Ilia said. He did give me an account number. I never checked what it was; I was too preoccupied finding the name. I keep all those documents in a safe at the club."

"I'll go with you." Dimitri held on to Talin's hands.

"You're needed here." Talin nodded toward the basement. "Lucian's presence here means Vlad is watching the marina. You have to prepare for this shipment."

"Damn it, Talin," Dimitri shook his head. "Don't ask me to spend the day worrying about you."

"Not for long,' Talin said. "We need to end this. Don't you want to end this?"

Dimitri cursed under his breath and let go of Talin's hands. He continued down the corridor, going into the kitchen. Katerina still sat at the dining table.

"Lukas?" Dimitri asked.

"Talking to Lucian's men," Katerina said. "He has them helping him verify the docked boats. I hope it lasts long enough."

"We're almost done with Lucian," Dimitri said. "Katerina..."

"We're not leaving you," Katerina stated. "I know that is what you're going to suggest. It's not happening."

"Lucian says your lives are in danger.

"I'm sure they are." Katerina glanced at Talin. "His life is in danger too. He's not running. We stay, Dimitri."

Talin kissed Katerina's cheek.

"He's upset because we're all not listening to him."

"It happens," Katerina said with a smile.

Talin grinned.

"Dimitri—

"Okay, fine, I'll drop you off," Dimitri said, opening the fridge. He retrieved a bottle of water and uncapped it. "But, you have to promise to call me if something goes wrong, Talin."

"I promise," Talin said. "We should go then. The faster I get to the club the better. I can finish what I'm doing and you'll get to nag me sooner."

***

Raphael showed up at the loft an hour later with a new doctor in tow. Talin sat on his favorite couch allowing the doctor to inject him with dose that would decrease how fast the toxin worked on him.

"Can you make an antidote?" Talin asked.

Raphael paced the length of his living room, studying everything on the shelves, as though he were doing an appraisal.

"The cocktail I have given you will slow down the symptoms. However, the toxin is specifically designed to activate after seventy-two hours with devastating precision. We're working on synthesizing an antidote, but we won't make it within the seventy-two hour leeway."

"What happens if I get the antidote after that mark?" Talin asked staring at his hands. "Do I die anyway?"

"The damage will be similar to radiation poisoning," the doctor said. "The pain is excruciating, but we can manage it for a period of time. However the damage to your internal organs might be irreversible—

"Stop," Talin's hands were shaking. He clenched his fingers into tight fists, hoping to hide his fear. "Thank you, doctor."

"The injection I've given you should stop any pain and discomfort. Your headache will increase as the hours pass. Keep in touch and we can increase the dosage as we go."

Talin nodded pulling the sleeve of his sweater to his wrist. He watched the doctor gather his things and leave the loft. Talin closed his eyes and let out a shaky breath.

"Don't let me watch you die, Talin. Let me call Vlad now...we can always build another company."

"This isn't easy for me," Talin said, opening his eyes to stare at the folder on the coffee table. He had found the paperwork Ilia had given him. "Pan Limited is Gabriel's legacy. His life's work."

"I doubt Gabriel would want to see you die like this."

Talin sighed and picked up the folder.

"We should check out these accounts Ilia gave me when I moved here. Damaging Vlad is our number one priority."

Raphael stalked to where he sat and grabbed the folder out of his hands.

"Saving you is my primary concern. If you don't work with me, Talin, I'm going to get a lawyer involved. With your current medical condition, it's not that hard to get your power of attorney in my control. Don't test me. My moral compass is very iffy."

"You wouldn't dare."

"Try me," Raphael said with a glare. "Now, I'm calling Vlad. You're going to tell her you agree to her terms."

Talin sighed and sat back on the couch.

"I look like an idiot to you, don't I?"

"No, you look like family," Raphael stated. "Family that wants to die senselessly and I'm not having that happen. So buck up, Talin Sato."

"Fuck you."

"Sorry, l'il brother, you're family."

_Family_ , Talin scoffed. Some family.

His head throbbed, though it was a dim sort of throb in the back of his head. Talin got up and walked to the kitchen. His thoughts on the first time Dimitri had been in his kitchen. The orange juice saga filled his head and he smiled. How easy life had been then.

Talin walked to the sink and filled a mug with water. Taking the mug to the flower pot in the middle of the kitchen table, he watered the rose plant Dimitri had given him. Dimitri's confession at Raphael's house weighed on him.

He'd always thought his luck with love came once. After all, his life with Gabriel had been majestic. It had been so wonderful to have Gabriel as long as he had. Talin touched the leaves on the plant with a sigh.

To get love again...it almost felt like he was being greedy.

Talin leaned closer to the plant and frowned when he saw a small tiny bud starting on one of the branches. Touching it with a finger, he stared at it with wonder.

"Talin?"

He looked up to find Raphael standing at the kitchen door.

"Did you say you can get a trusted lawyer?" Talin asked struck by an idea.

"Yes. Are you handing over control?"

"No." Talin picked up the flower pot and took it to the sink where the sunrays were shining through. It was good for the plant to soak in the sun, perhaps that bud would bloom in the coming days. Turning to Raphael, he smiled wide.

"Before you call Vlad, we're going to play an investment game."

"Talin."

Talin headed out of the kitchen, grabbing his jacket from the couch, he started for the front door.

"Come on, Raphael, I don't have time to waste."

***

Sean and Tomas helped prepare the _Anastasia_ for their late night shipment. Dimitri found he could breathe with them around. Checking the engines, making sure all safety equipment was in place, clearing and washing cargo holds. The activity soothed him.

"Boss, do you know what the cargo is?" Sean asked when they finished. They stood on deck, watching the sun set in the horizon.

_Day one over,_ Dimitri counted. Vlad's shipment was to be picked up tomorrow at midnight.

"No," Dimitri said. "Whatever it is, this should be the last shipment. It ends tomorrow tonight."

Tomas placed a hand on his left shoulder.

"It will get messy. She has something I need," Dimitri said with a sigh. "I can't ask you to—

"We're in this too," Sean said bumping his right shoulder. "We made the choice a while back. Dimitri, don't forget Vlad's taken family from us too."

Dimitri nodded.

"Very well, I'll see you at eleven tomorrow night. I'm gonna head out."

"Going to see Talin?" Sean asked.

"Yeah," Dimitri said. "I need to make sure he's alright."

Tomas squeezed his shoulder.

"He's going to make it."

Dimitri swallowed hard as he got off the _Anastasia._ Worry had been eating at him all day since Talin had gone to the club. He didn't like leaving Talin with Raphael. Reaching for his phone, he dialed Talin's number as he hurried to his car.

There was no response.

His heart dipped in fear, and instead of his car, he chose his motorcycle. Jamming on his helmet, Dimitri raced out of the marina, headed to the Talon.

***

Talin wasn't at the loft, or at the club.

Dimitri leaned on the counter in the club and stared at the drink Lori had placed before him. There was a new bartender. Dimitri's gaze roamed the main club floor, taking in the new waiters, Talin had hired new staff.

"I'm surprised boss is not with you," Lori said calling out new orders to the bartender. "I haven't seen him since yesterday morning. He was doing paperwork in his office. Is everything okay?"

Dimitri tossed back the shot of vodka.

"I need to find him."

Lori nodded and reached for her cell phone.

"I can call him, find out where he is."

Dimitri started to tell her not to, he'd been calling with no response from Talin. But then she dialed Talin's number and Talin answered on the first ring. Motioning for him to follow, Lori went down the corridor to Talin's office.

"Talin?" Lori was saying.

Dimitri grabbed the phone from her.

"Talin," Dimitri said into Lori's phone.

"Hey," Lori complained as he pushed her out of the way.

Dimitri entered Talin's office and closed the door on her face.

"Where are you? Why aren't you answering my calls? I thought you promised not to do this."

"Dimitri," Talin said, sounding tired.

Visions of Talin laid up in bed filled his head and he wondered if the poison hadn't taken a toll on him.

"Where are you?" Dimitri asked.

"I'm buying a company," Talin answered a smile in his voice. "Don't worry, I'm with Raphael."

"That's not comforting at all."

Talin chuckled.

"I promise I'm safe. Not sick, or anything...it's going to take me a while to get back to the loft."

"I'll come to you."

"I thought you were prepping for a shipment."

"Yeah," Dimitri sat behind Talin's desk. "We're finished. Talin, tell me where you are."

"I'll be home in thirty minutes."

"Why weren't you answering my calls?"

"Because I want to run back to you when I hear your voice," Talin sighed on the other end. "I have to go, Dimitri."

"I love you." Dimitri marveled at how easily those words came.

It hurt when he got silence in answer.

"I'll see you soon, babe," Talin said after a moment.

The call ended as abruptly as it had started. Dimitri stared at Lori's pink phone feeling unfinished. He started to get up from Talin's chair, but a Department of Justice logo caught his eye, and he paused. Reaching for the card left on top of spreadsheets, Dimitri sat back as he read the name on the card.

"Detective James Oman," he said.

The man who'd called on Talin about Dimitri being in the _bratva_.

Studying the card, Dimitri swept his finger over Lori's phone, thinking...

***

Talin was bone-tired by the time Raphael pulled into the Talon's parking lot. The time on the dashboard was eleven-thirty, almost midnight.

"I'll pick you up tomorrow evening at eleven," Raphael said. "Vlad doesn't like daytime hours."

"Are you sure we did the right thing?" Talin asked looking at Raphael.

"We won't know until she signs the papers tomorrow."

Raphael sighed and reached out to caress Talin's jaw.

"I'm sorry."

"For what?" Talin asked.

"Everything," Raphael sighed. "Gabriel, lying to you...you'd never have met Vlad if I hadn't mouthed off. Gabriel would still be alive."

"It's done," Talin said, realizing that Raphael's grief might be heavier than his. "No use crying over it."

"But you want to," Raphael said. "You haven't forgiven me."

"That will take time," Talin said, time he didn't have he reminded his wavering heart. He opened the door, and glanced at Raphael. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"Goodnight, Talin."

Talin got out of the car and closed the passenger door. He watched Raphael drive out of the busy parking lot, tugging his jacket closed. A chilly wind swept through and he shivered, rubbing his arms, hoping to feel warm.

He turned to the main club doors and stopped when he saw Dimitri standing at the steps, hands at his hips.

"You waited."

"What other choice did I have?" Dimitri asked.

Talin couldn't help the smile at Dimitri's miffed expression.

"I'm sorry." Talin moved closer to Dimitri, wanting to see those blue eyes up close. "I've been stuck in a bank all afternoon."

"You could have told me where?"

"Raphael thought it would be better if you didn't know," Talin said. "Can I make it up to you?"

"How?" Dimitri demanded. "I was worried sick."

Talin took Dimitri's right hand, closing his fingers over strong warm ones. He led Dimitri around the club building to the back where the exterior staircase to the loft was.

They climbed up in silence.

Talin was glad his mini-stalker hadn't made a visit tonight. There were too many things going on to add on that. He unlocked the door and stepped in, waiting for Dimitri to close the door, before he pulled him into his arms.

Talin kissed Dimitri.

Talin clung to Dimitri's leather jacket, pouring all the emotion he had in him into the kiss. He wanted to absorb all of Dimitri's heat. Memorize the feel of their kisses, their sighs, their moans...

He worried this was all he'd get.

Dimitri held him tight.

Talin broke the kiss and buried his face into Dimitri's shoulder.

"Let's spend the day together tomorrow," Talin whispered. "We can drive out of town."

"Where do you want to go?" Dimitri asked.

"Anywhere," Talin smiled, his arms wrapping around Dimitri's shoulders tight. "A place where we'll be just the two of us."

Dimitri nodded. "Let's do it."

***

16

Talin slid the needle into his left arm as the doctor had shown him. Injecting the dose fast, he removed the needle with a small grimace. He hated needles. His headache was now constant. The meds dulled the pain, but this was the second time he'd needed a dose in the last four hours. His gaze fell on the metal case the doctor left him. He wondered if he had enough to last through the day. He didn't want to worry Dimitri.

Talin discarded the used needle into a black plastic container. Sealing it, he dumped into the black bag. Closing the metal case, he slid it into the black bag too and zipped it up.

Sliding the sleeve of his sweater down, Talin closed the trunk.

The sun was coming up, turning the world a gorgeous orange.

Talin leaned on his car waiting for the gas to fill.

Dimitri was in the convenience store buying coffee. They'd driven out of Colston around four this morning. Dimitri was driving them to a lakeshore cabin in Sutherland, a neighboring city. Talin closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath, and imagined this was a normal day.

No big bad monsters coming after Dimitri and him, or threatening Dimitri's family, he could see them going out for a drive, a normal day.

The tank filled, pulling Talin out of his thoughts. He took the nozzle out of the gas tank, capped it and returned the gas pump nozzle to its place.

Dimitri emerged from the convenience store carrying a tray with two coffee cups.

Talin stared.

Dimitri was sexy in a black v-neck t-shirt and worn-in blue jeans. His dark hair a wild tumble on his head, dark glasses covered his eyes.

_My personal bad boy_ , Talin thought.

Dimitri reached him and Talin took his left arm and leaned up for a kiss.

"Mmm..." Dimitri prolonged the kiss, leaning them against the car. "What was that for?"

"Being you," Talin said, taking the coffee tray from him.

Dimitri smiled.

"We'll have to stop at a restaurant for breakfast," Dimitri said, opening the passenger door. "Or..."

"Or?" Talin asked, pausing before he could get in the car.

"We get groceries and drive straight to the cabin. I'll make you breakfast." Dimitri winked.

"Shopping it is," Talin said.

Talin got in the car, closing his door, he watched Dimitri hurry around to the driver's side.

Dimitri started the car, and Talin handed him a cup of coffee once he joined traffic. The radio tuned to a soft rock station, the music turned low. Traffic was fast. Talin could imagine a billion moments like these with Dimitri.

Dimitri put his coffee cup in the holder between them and took his hand, twining their fingers. Talin lifted their joined hands and kissed the back of Dimitri's hand. He wanted more, lots more of these moments.

***

"Did you have to make me chop the onions?" Talin complained an hour later.

Dimitri mixed eggs in a bowl, his attention on a heating pan on the cooker.

"I'm chopping everything else."

"This is payback for last night, isn't it?" Talin asked, "For not answering your calls."

"You do that to me again and I'll squat onion juice into your gorgeous eyes."

Dimitri poured the egg mixture he'd made into the pan, making it sizzle and bubble.

"You have a mean streak," Talin said, finishing with the onions. His eyes stung and his eyelashes were damp.

Moving to the sink, he turned on the water and washed his hands, scrubbing away the onion smell with dish soap.

Dimitri scrambled the eggs, taking a container of black pepper; he sprinkled the dark spice on the eggs.

"Where did you learn to cook?" Talin asked, wiping his hands on a kitchen towel.

"From my mother," Dimitri said with a small smile. "She'd be in the kitchen on Sundays, and have me stand on this stool so I could reach the countertop. She chopped the onions. I'd get to chop tomatoes or whatever soft vegetable she wanted."

"That's cute," Talin said charmed at the idea of toddler Dimitri. "You don't talk about her."

"She passed away early." Dimitri glanced at Talin then. "She died of in a car accident."

Talin understood it wouldn't have been easy for Dimitri to lose his mother. He knew loss, knew the toll it took on the heart.

"What happened?" Talin asked.

Dimitri turned off the heat and stared at the eggs.

"Car accident, my father was driving."

Talin moved behind Dimitri and slipped his arms around Dimitri's waist, hugging him. He pressed his face into Dimitri's back when Dimitri leaned against him.

"I didn't talk to Dad for two months. I was angry with him." Dimitri let out a sigh, and Talin felt him cover his hands with his. "I didn't understand he was grieving too."

"I'm sorry."

"It's easier now. I hope wherever they are, that they're together."

Dimitri squeezed his hands.

Talin stepped back and Dimitri turned to kiss his jaw.

"Don't look so depressed, Talin. We came here to relax."

"We are relaxed." Talin grinned. "Whose cabin is this?"

"An Army buddy," Dimitri said, taking the chopping board with the onions. "He's in Florida. He lets me use the cabin whenever I want."

"That's nice of him." Talin looked around the sunny kitchen. "I always wanted to live by a water body: a lake, a sea or an ocean."

"Do you still want to?" Dimitri asked.

Talin smiled.

"Are you going to let me move in to your house at the marina?"

"It's not my house, that's Lukas's house. I signed over my share."

Talin frowned. "Don't you like living there?"

"I grew up there, but the marina life is not mine. Lukas gets thrills from it. I was to leave after our father's funeral, but then Lukas told me about Vlad—

"So you stayed," Talin said.

"Yes," Dimitri nodded. "I couldn't leave them to face Vlad alone."

"Dimitri."

Dimitri glanced at him.

"If you want, we can find a house by the lake."

"Or the ocean," Talin said, thinking after the past few weeks, maybe months; he could put Colston in his past. Start fresh somewhere new.

"Leave Colston?" Dimitri asked.

"Would you hate that?"

"Not if you come along," Dimitri said, though Talin didn't miss the frown that graced Dimitri's forehead.

Dimitri was thinking about Lukas and Katerina.

"We don't have to think about it right now," Talin said then. "Tell me more stories about your childhood: you, Lukas and your mom."

Dimitri grinned.

Talin smiled. They spent the morning in the kitchen eating scrambled eggs, fresh fruit salad and drinking coffee. Talin loved listening to Dimitri talk about his childhood. His love for Lukas and Katerina shone in every word. The marina was ingrained in Dimitri's life, whether he wanted to leave it or not.

They cleaned up the dishes, and Dimitri gave him a tour of the cabin. It had two bedrooms, a living area and kitchen.

Talin fell in love with the master bedroom. A balcony door opened out on to a gorgeous deck connected to a walkway leading to the lake. He could imagine the sunrise in the morning, light falling on the large bed.

The trees around the cabin offered privacy, placing them in a world all their own.

They spent the afternoon on the bed, wrapped in each other's arms.

Dimitri kissed him with hunger, taking as though they'd never get another chance to kiss. He explored every inch of Talin's body, caressing, trailing kisses, nibbling soft skin, tender places, and igniting heat that wouldn't die down.

Talin's fingers dug into Dimitri's back when Dimitri took him, stroking in with unrestrained strength. Each stroke reaching so deep inside him, he felt possessed. Ecstasy coursed in every cell in his body, he felt as though he'd never get enough of Dimitri.

Talin started to close his eyes when he was close to orgasm, but Dimitri stroked his fingers into his hair, and stopped him, holding his gaze. Heated blue eyes captured his, and his heart seized...the love he read in Dimitri's eyes undoing him.

He came apart in Dimitri's arms. Letting go as love he hadn't acknowledged burst in full bloom. Dimitri kissed him and Talin wrapped shaking arms around sweat-slicked shoulders, afraid. Afraid to lose Dimitri...to lose him when he loved him...Talin gasped when Dimitri kissed his eyes, and wiped away tears from his jaw.

"Don't cry," Dimitri said in a whisper, resting his full weight on Talin. "I know."

"What do you know?" Talin asked, hiding his face in Dimitri's shoulder. His fingers combed damp dark hair and he pressed a kiss on Dimitri's warm skin.

"I know what's in your heart." Dimitri held him tight. "I know because I feel the same."

Talin closed his eyes and the tears really fell this time.

Dimitri was his.

Dimitri rolled them to the side and held him tight.

They stayed in bed through the afternoon, talking, making plans for the future, and making love. When the sun started to slide down in the horizon, Talin wrapped a sheet around his shoulders and stepped out to the deck. The light turned the lake into shimmering glass, he grinned remembering his first date with Dimitri. Their first sunset together.

"It's so beautiful," Talin said, when Dimitri stood behind him holding him tight. "Should I take a picture?"

"I'll get your phone," Dimitri said.

Talin smiled as Dimitri entered the cabin.

***

Dimitri zipped his jeans and went to the living room where he'd dumped their bags. Reaching for Talin's, he unzipped it and had to move fast to catch a black bag from falling out. Curious, he opened the small black bag and found a shiny metallic box. Glancing toward the bedroom, he opened the box, and stared at the medicine packs and the new syringes.

"Did you find the phone?" Talin entered the living room. "The light is changing..."

His words trailed off when he saw what Dimitri was holding.

"What are these?" Dimitri asked.

"Meds," Talin said, coming to take them out of Dimitri's hand.

"I can see that," Dimitri said, grabbing Talin's left arm. He'd seen bruises on Talin's left arm, and assumed he'd gotten them helping at the bar. "What are they for?"

"The doctor gave them to me to manage pain," Talin said.

"Pain?" Dimitri felt chills race down his back, his gaze on Talin's arm. "How many times today?"

"Huh?"

"How many times have you needed them?"

Talin dropped his gaze and placed the box on the coffee table.

"Not that—

"Don't lie to me."

Talin closed his eyes and opened the box for Dimitri.

"I have three doses left. I had eight when I came here."

Dimitri nodded and let go of Talin's arm. He wiped a hand down his face and moved to sit on the couch.

"We should go back."

"No," Talin shook his head. "This is good. We still have a few hours."

"No, it's not good. You're getting worse." Dimitri stared at Talin at a loss. "You're getting worse, and I have done nothing to fix it. We need to go back."

Talin started to protest, but Dimitri got up and went to the bedroom. He dressed in jerky motions, afraid if he stopped even for a second, his strength would fail him. The thought of Talin suffering in pain...it ate him up inside.

Talin came into the bedroom.

"Dimitri."

Dimitri ignored him and instead picked up Talin's jeans and t-shirt.

"Get dressed," Dimitri said, when he held out the clothes to Talin and he refused to wear them.

"I get dressed then what?" Talin asked. "We drive back to Colston, and track down Vlad. Is that what you want?"

"It makes sense."

Talin refused to take his clothes, so Dimitri grabbed the sheet from Talin and threw it on the floor. Ignoring Talin's sexy body, he crouched down and made Talin wear the jeans. He stood up, dragging the jeans up.

Talin smiled at him when Dimitri's fingers brushed over his cock.

"That sexy smile is not changing my mind," Dimitri said, kissing Talin's smiling lips. He zipped up the jeans with care and buttoned them.

"Come on, Dimitri."

Shaking out the white t-shirt, Dimitri found the hole for the head and slipped it over Talin's head. Talin stepped back, and wore the sleeves on his own.

"You're spoiling a perfectly good day," Talin complained.

"What do you want me to do?" Dimitri asked, finding their shoes: his boots, and Talin's leather sandals. "I can't watch you in pain, Talin. Ask me anything else. We need to get back to Colston, and find a way to convince Vlad to give us the antidote."

"I have a plan for that, but it concerns a lot of waiting, Dimitri. Please calm down, let's go out and see the sunset."

"No." Dimitri shook his head, kneeling to put Talin's shoes on. "We're going—

"No."

Talin refused to wear his shoes, instead running outside the balcony door.

"Talin."

Dimitri straightened still holding Talin's shoes. He hurried out the balcony and stopped when he found Talin had gone down the walkway to the lake.

Dropping Talin's shoes on the deck, he fought down panic. He had forgotten Talin was in danger, seeing him so healthy, it didn't seem right to think of him as dying.

Dimitri watched Talin sit on the edge of the walkway, his feet dangling above water. The wind tossed Talin's soft hair. Dimitri started to walk over determined to convince Talin to listen to him, and if Talin refused to carry him out to the car.

Then he got to Talin, and stared when Talin looked up at him.

"I love you," Talin said. "I really do love you."

"Talin." Dimitri sat down beside him, elated.

Talin returned his gaze to the sunset.

"I didn't think I'd get another chance to love. Then you showed up and wouldn't let me be," Talin shook his head. "I—

"I understand."

"If you do, just sit here with me for the next hour. Can you do that for me?"

Dimitri took Talin's right hand and placed it on his lap, twining his fingers with Talin's slender ones. He lifted their clasped hands to press a kiss on the back of Talin's hand.

"I'll do anything you want me to, my love."

Despite the dark storm looming a head, his dream had come true. Talin loved him.

***

Dimitri carried their bags into Talin's loft at ten o'clock. Talin followed in a slower pace. Dumping the bags on the floor, Dimitri stopped Talin at the door, and pressed his palm on Talin's forehead.

"You're warm."

Talin walked around him.

"I'm tired too."

Dimitri closed the front door and picked up Talin's bag. He removed the metal box, and followed Talin to the couch.

"Don't," Talin protested when Dimitri started to prepare a shot. Talin sat on the couch and rested his head back with a sigh. "I don't think those meds are doing much. They are making me nauseous."

Dimitri took Talin's cell phone from his pocket.

"I'll call Raphael. You need a doctor."

"Dimitri," Talin said. "This is not going to get better."

Dimitri found Raphael's number on speed dial.

"He's first?" Dimitri asked with a frown. "Why aren't I first?"

Talin chuckled.

"We haven't—

"I'm changing it." Dimitri cut him off. "Do you even have my number on speed dial?"

Talin smiled.

"I don't have the energy to spar with you, Dimitri."

Dimitri scowled at him and dialed Raphael's number. The call was answered on the first ring.

"Where are you?" Raphael asked.

"We're at the loft. Talin is getting worse. His pain meds aren't working."

"Damn it, I told him to stay put and you two—"

"Bring the doctor with you, Raphael, hurry," Dimitri ordered and ended the call.

Dumping the phone on the coffee table, he shifted from the table and sat beside Talin on the couch.

"What can I do?" Dimitri asked, pulling Talin into his arms, holding him.

Talin rested his head on Dimitri's chest, his fingers bunching Dimitri's t-shirt. "This is perfect."

"Talin," Dimitri sighed.

"Tell me what you'll be doing tonight."

Dimitri stroked his fingers through Talin's hair.

"I'm taking Sean and Tomas to meet Vlad's shipment. Lucian might bring his men."

"Ilia said he convinced Lucian to join us," Talin said.

"Do you trust Ilia?" Dimitri asked. "He's a man who left his brother and ran away, Talin."

"I trust his sense of survival. Ilia wants Vlad ended because as long as she exists, Ilia can't live."

"And you think he was able to convince Lucian of this?" Dimitri asked.

Talin clutched Dimitri's t-shirt, breathing through a wave of nausea. They hadn't gotten a script on Ilia and Lucian's conversation in the basement. The brothers had spent two solid hours locked up together, and when Ilia emerged, he'd simply asked Himura to take him back to Raphael.

Dimitri had cut Lucian's ties and received a punch on his face for his efforts. After that, Lucian had left the marina and hadn't returned.

"Vlad hasn't shown up to shoot you dead, yet," Talin noted. "Lucian must have his reasons for keeping his silence about yesterday."

Dimitri pressed a soft kiss on Talin's head.

"We shouldn't trust him."

"I know." Talin clung to him. "You're the only one I trust, Dimitri."

Dimitri closed his eyes and wished for the morning.

If Talin could make it through this night...he'd give anything.

***

His head ached, a persistent ache that made him feel like he was going crazy. Talin closed his eyes and took in Dimitri's scent. Dimitri held him tight regardless of the doctor checking his vitals.

Raphael insisted on not telling him the doctor's name.

To protect him, Raphael said.

Talin wondered how he'd ended up in this kind of life.

"Your pain levels are increasing." The doctor produced a syringe from his bag. "We'll increase the dose, but you have to realize if we can't get the antidote soon, we need to admit you into a hospital."

Dimitri's arm tightened around Talin's shoulders.

"We'll get it tonight," Raphael said, from his position by the windows. "Don't worry."

Talin thought Raphael was convincing himself and Dimitri.

"Give me the shot," Talin said, extending his left arm to the doctor.

He buried his face into Dimitri's chest as the doctor gave him the injection. He'd always hated needles, and the constant injections were driving him crazy. When the doctor was done, Talin pushed back his sleeve, and smiled.

"I feel better already," he lied, with a wan smile.

The doctor gave him a skeptic look but nodded in understanding.

"You have at least three hours before you start deteriorating."

"I understand," Talin nodded.

"In that time, I hope you can get the antidote."

The doctor got up, gave him a short bow, and left the loft.

Dimitri sat silent beside him.

Talin forced energy into his voice.

"Guys, it's almost eleven. We should get going—

"I'll go with you," Dimitri said then. "I'll go with you to meet Vlad."

Raphael scoffed by the windows.

"Don't you have a job to do at the marina?"

Dimitri ignored Raphael, and turned to Talin.

"We'll get the antidote. Get you better."

Talin read panic in Dimitri's blue eyes.

If Dimitri didn't go to the marina, all their plans would fall through. Dimitri needed to meet that shipment tonight.

Talin smiled.

"Dimitri."

"Don't ask me to watch you go alone."

"He's not going alone," Raphael protested.

"Talin," Dimitri said, once again ignoring Raphael.

Talin cupped Dimitri's face, kissing him then, a soft promising kiss that left him aching with longing for the cabin. He pulled back and met Dimitri's beautiful blue eyes.

"Katerina and Lukas need you," Talin said. "Go to the marina, Dimitri, leave Vlad to Raphael and me."

"Talin." Dimitri shook his head.

"I'll come back to you," Talin promised.

Dimitri held his gaze, his eyes shining with what looked like tears.

"Don't break that promise."

Talin smiled.

"I have to water the rose plant you gave me, remember?"

Dimitri laughed a short surprised burst that brightened up his face.

Talin nodded archiving the sound of Dimitri's laugh, and his happy expression.

"Just like that," Talin said, kissing Dimitri again. "I love you."

"I love you too."

Talin got up then, the room spinning; he prayed that he wouldn't fall on his face.

"Raphael, we should get going," Talin said.

Dimitri got to his feet too.

"Call me?" Dimitri asked.

"As soon as it is over, yes."

Talin took a jacket he'd left on the armchair and wore it. He waved at Dimitri, and then before he lost his courage, he left the loft.

His headache made walking a chore. He felt hot, though without the jacket it felt too cold. He'd been fighting nausea all day, now it felt like his insides were crawling out. Downstairs in the parking lot, Talin stumbled against Raphael's black Mercedes and Raphael hurried to his side.

"How bad is it?" Raphael asked, taking his right arm.

"Let's hope I can bluff my way through the meeting with Vlad," Talin said, grateful when Raphael helped him onto the passenger seat. "Raphael, promise to protect Dimitri, if anything goes wrong."

"Nothing will—

"Promise me," Talin said, grabbing Raphael's arm when he started to close the door.

Raphael cursed under his breath and met his gaze.

"I promise, fucking Dimitri will have a rosy life."

Talin smiled. "Thanks."

"Don't thank me," Raphael slammed the door closed and walked around to the driver's side.

Talin glanced up at the lit loft windows, and hoped Dimitri would make it tonight. He wanted to see the sunset again with Dimitri, spend a billion evenings with him.

***

The lake was cold.

Dimitri shivered even though he wore a heavy leather jacket. Once again, the _Anastasia_ stood in the dark night, surrounded by dark waters, waiting for a signal.

_The final signal_ , Dimitri thought, his gaze on the two men standing with him. Sean and Tomas were tense too.

Lucian was below deck. He'd joined them at the marina at the last minute. He wasn't in the mood to talk. Dimitri didn't blame him.

Two flashes of light cut through the darkness.

"It's time," Sean said.

Dimitri started the engines and drove the _Anastasia_ closer to the new boat. This time, two of the crew from the other boat boarded the _Anastasia_. Dimitri froze when he saw them followed by three young girls barely in their twenties. He fought down bile as more of them boarded the _Anastasia_ , each going to the cargo hold, those cold rooms he'd washed haphazardly yesterday.

None of the girls was dressed for the cold. The girls shivered, clinging to one another. The crew from the other boat treated them rough, pushing them into the cargo holds like sheep.

"Twenty," one of the crew from the other boat said. "You die if you lose one."

"Nothing to worry about," Sean called back, watching the two crew members get back to their boat.

Lucian came out then. He closed the cargo hold doors himself, and pocketed the key.

Dimitri gave him a grim look before he went to the cockpit and turned _the Anastasia_ towards shore. He tensed when Lucian came to stand beside him.

"Sasha is waiting at the dock," Lucian said. "Nothing can go wrong. Those girls are not your concern. Concentrate on saving your life tonight."

"They're children," Dimitri said, his fingers gripping the steering wheel tight. "It was bad enough with the women, but these girls—

"Don't fuck up the plan," Lucian warned. "I might be helping, but we're all going to die if shit goes wrong. Trust me. Vlad is too edgy as it is."

Dimitri refused to imagine the fate the twenty girls in his cargo hold would face. He wasn't going to sit back and watch this time.

Why hadn't the cargo been drugs, or guns?

_Young girls,_ he cursed under his breath. _Twenty lives._

"If you want to worry, think about your boyfriend." Lucian gripped his right shoulder. "Talin is meeting Vlad as we speak, you fuck up, and she won't hesitate to kill him even if he gets the antidote."

Dimitri shrugged Lucian's hand off his shoulder and concentrated on getting the _Anastasia_ to shore. He couldn't think about Talin without going mad.

As Lucian had warned, Sasha waited with a large white van when they docked. Sasha had four men waiting with him, all armed with automatic guns.

Sasha boarded the _Anastasia_ and took the key from Lucian. He and his men unlocked the cargo hold.

Dimitri clenched his jaw as they too roughly pulled the young women out of the boat and dragged them to the van. When it was over, they all left the _Anastasia._

Dimitri walked with his right hand resting on his hip and the gun hidden under his jacket. Sasha and Lucian were talking, the four men with Sasha packing the young women in to the van fast.

Frightened screams and whimpers tore at Dimitri.

Dimitri glanced at Sean, then Tomas.

One single nod and he withdrew his gun. His aim was precise; he took out two of Sasha's men. Sean and Tomas shot the remaining two. He shifted his gun to Sasha, and a small wave of relief filled him when he saw Lucian holding the muzzle of his gun to Sasha's forehead.

"This is a bad decision." Sasha hissed glaring at him in the moonlight.

Lucian used the butt of his gun to knock Sasha on the head, hard. Sasha groaned and fell back on Lucian, sliding to the ground unconscious.

"Are you going to pick him up?" Dimitri asked Lucian.

Lucian ignored him and pointed to where Sean and Tomas were busy helping the women out of the van.

"We need the cargo to get into Vlad's warehouse."

"Not cargo, they're people, Lucian. We work without the young women." Dimitri refused to put another black mark on his conscious. It was already heavy enough. "They will stay here."

"Vlad scans the vans as they go into the warehouse."

Lucian pushed him against the van.

"We need the women."

"Can you guarantee they won't be touched?" Dimitri asked.

"I'm telling you what you need to get in to the warehouse," Lucian said. "Without the women, you die. She'll blow the van the moment she realizes it's empty."

Dimitri looked to Sean and Tomas. They both stood guarding the young women.

"This is not a suggestion," Lucian said, glancing at his watch. "We have a schedule to keep, Dimitri. Don't forget we have Himura and Ilia waiting at the warehouse. They can help you with the cargo."

"Not good enough," Dimitri shook his head. "They won't make it inside on time."

"We don't have a choice. If Vlad scans the van and sees missing cargo, we're screwed. All of us," Lucian said.

Dimitri stared at the shivering young girls and felt a hollow open in his stomach.

"If you want this to end tonight, we have no choice but to bring them." Lucian gripped his jacket tight. "There is no choice. Their lives are not in your hands, Dimitri."

"Why has it always been so easy for you?"

"Survival of the fittest," Lucian said through gritted teeth. "Tell Sean and Tomas to put the women back in the van. We don't have time to waste."

Dimitri cursed and looked at Sean. Giving him a short nod, he watched as they urged the women back into the van. Their pleas and cries tore at him deep inside.

"Think of this as one of your military missions, Dimitri. Your primary target is Vlad." Lucian let go of his jacket and bent over Sasha. "Grab his arms; we're going to need his eyes at the warehouse."

***

17

Dimitri shifted in the passenger seat, his gaze on Lucian who drove with a grim expression on his handsome features.

"What?" Lucian spared him a short glance.

"Two years ago," Dimitri said. "When you and I were together, you knew why I wanted in. That's why you went out with me."

"If you didn't find me, you'd have gone to Sasha. Vlad wanted the marina; she'd have pushed Sasha to seek you out." Lucian shrugged. "I knew your father. He was a good man. Ivan thought you'd made the best choice joining the army, and he was proud of you. I couldn't let you lose your life so easily."

"Lose my life," Dimitri scoffed.

"Anyone who works for Sasha has a lifespan of six moths from the day they start," Lucian said, his gaze on the unconscious man between them. "He doesn't trust anyone. At least with me, you've lived."

Dimitri didn't argue with Lucian's assessment.

"Why did you agree to help?"

Lucian stopped at a light and glanced at Dimitri.

"I have my reasons."

"What did you talk about with Ilia?"

"If I tell you, will that help you trust me?"

Dimitri shook his head.

"No."

"Then don't ask," Lucian said, the traffic light turned green and he accelerated. "All I can tell you is that I want what's mine."

Lucian's answer made Dimitri nervous. He doubted what Lucian wanted had anything to do with him and Talin's safety.

They rode the rest of the way to Vlad's warehouse in silence. Tension coiled deep inside, as they approached the perimeter gates. Lucian pressed a button on his phone and the gates opened. He drove in fast, heading to the wide roller doors familiar to Dimitri.

Lucian stopped the van, and Dimitri clenched his gun tight.

"Wait," Lucian ordered, when he started to reach for the door handle.

Dimitri dropped his hands as a blue light flashed on his left. The light moved over the van, taking less than a second. Lucian let out a soft breath when the warehouse doors released, sliding open.

"Told you," Lucian said, as he drove into a pristine warehouse.

Dimitri couldn't believe this was the same warehouse Lucian had murdered two women.

Instead of stopping right at the entrance, Lucian drove the van straight to the little office Dimitri had seen the last time.

"This is the hard part," Lucian warned. "We need Sasha's eyes to open the door into the underground."

"You're not listed?" Dimitri frowned.

"Not here," Lucian said as he opened his door. "Vlad trusts no one with this place. Sasha remains the gatekeeper because he is in charge of security."

Dimitri got out of the van, knocking on the back for Sean and Tomas to join them.

"What makes her trust Sasha?" Dimitri asked Lucian.

"She doesn't," Lucian said, watching Sean and Tomas reach in to help carry out Sasha.

Lucian pointed to a small panel mounted on the wall, right next to the entrance into the small office. Sean and Tomas carried Sasha there, and braced him upright.

Lucian moved closer, holding Sasha's head, he opened Sasha's right eye with his thumb and forefinger and pressed Sasha's head close to the panel. It took a few tries, but then the panel activated. Once again, it took only a second, and a large wide door opened on the floor in the little office.

Dimitri turned in time to see Lucian screwing a silencer on to his gun. Before he could ask, Lucian put two bullets into Sasha's head. Sean and Tomas jumped back, Dimitri stared at Lucian in shock.

"We can't leave him standing," Lucian said.

"The women stay here," Dimitri said, afraid of the cold anger brewing in Lucian's eyes.

"Whatever you want," Lucian said, adjusting his jacket. He pointed to the closed rolling door. "Good luck with that."

"What?" Sean asked following Lucian's finger.

Dimitri frowned when he took a closer look at the wall on either side of the door. Rows of semtex bars seemed to hold up the rolling door's frame.

"She's rigged those explosives to detonate if those doors aren't opened by Sasha or Vlad." Lucian shrugged and pointed out a security camera in the corner of the inner office. "I will give you the code, but I'm sure it's been revoked."

"You're an asshole," Dimitri cursed.

"I didn't say it was going to be easy," Lucian said, heading into the small office and the entrance into the sub floor. "Make a choice, Dimitri."

Dimitri met Sean and Tomas's gaze.

"Get the girls to safety," Dimitri said. "I need to get Talin."

"We can come to you after," Sean said.

"No." Dimitri shook his head. "Head to the marina, secure Katerina and Lukas. If I don't get back, make sure you ship them out of Colston."

"Dim," Tomas started.

"Figure out how to get those doors open and get out of here. Make sure my family is safe," Dimitri said, then followed Lucian.

***

Talin sat in a chair across a large mahogany desk, his fingers gripping the armrests tight. Vlad's office was in the basement of a secure warehouse. She had restricted Raphael's men from following them into the office. A major disadvantage as she'd kept one of her guards inside. He stood blocking the door. Raphael sat beside him, tense and silent.

The tablet resting on the desk in front of Vlad had a Pan Limited stock transfer form filling the screen. The pencil on top of the tablet awaited Vlad. She needed to sign the document. Raphael assured him the transaction they'd prepped would be immediate.

"Sato," Vlad read his name on the documents. "Talin. You write your name backwards."

"You wanted my shares," Talin said. "Sign at the bottom of the line."

Vlad's gaze shifted from the tablet to Talin.

"I suppose life is more important. Is the pain too much?" she asked with a smile.

Talin hated her smile, that red curve of her lips made him shudder with fear. She needed to enter her signature for the plan to work. He fought back impatience and instead sat still.

Vlad opened a drawer on her right, and produced a vial with clear liquid. She placed it on a mat on the desk and held Talin's gaze.

"The antidote," she said with a small grin. "You held out longer than I expected. Not everyone pushes it this far. You fascinate me, Talin Sato. How did you get over your aversion to sign over Pan Limited?"

Talin glanced at Raphael, and Vlad's chuckle disappeared.

"I see. Your brother in-law has influence on you."

"I reminded him why he needs to live," Raphael said, his tone cold. "Don't waste my efforts, Vlad. You promised the antidote for the company."

Vlad studied Raphael for a moment, and then picked up the white pen on the tablet.

Her gaze skated over Talin.

Talin bit his inner lip, fighting the pain sweeping through his body. He felt too hot and his palms were sweaty. The pressure in his head increased every second, taking away his ability to remain cordial. He wanted to scream out, yet he had to keep calm before Vlad.

Vlad scoffed and with a flourish, she signed the document, the signature verification was immediate, Raphael worked with the best. Vlad smiled when she read the words authorized on the screen.

Talin felt relief flood him. With that done, he was left with one last hurdle; his gaze went to the vial on the desk. He held his breath when Vlad took the vial, and stood.

"You want this?" she asked, walking around her desk. "Or do you want to follow your husband? Do you know why he was murdered?"

Talin bit his lip harder until he tasted blood.

"Raphael, you told him the truth." Vlad shook her head with mock shock. "You didn't want me to have fun telling Talin. How mean of you."

"Give him the antidote, he's done his part," Raphael grinded out.

"This?" Vlad held up the vial, and then she dropped the vial on the floor, the glass breaking. She grinded her red heel on the glass, the precious liquid spilling on the wooden floor.

Talin sat frozen in his seat. The reality of his death staring him in the face, all he could worry about was what it would do to Dimitri. Dimitri, who was out there protecting the people he loved—

What would his death do to Dimitri?

"Water," Vlad said with a nonchalant shrug.

"You had no intention of handing over the antidote." Talin stated.

"Why would I?" Vlad asked. "You're dying. You've handed over the company to me. Why do I need loose ends? We're done with our transaction. Raphael, this is payback for your family refusing to work with us. If only things were different—

"Shut the fuck up," Raphael snapped. "My father was right about you. You have no principles, no respect."

"Insulting me is not wise," Vlad said, her tone low, deadly.

"Insults are the least of your worries." Raphael stood, his phone in hand. "I thought you might be less than honest."

Vlad crossed her arms against her chest.

"You can't touch me here, Raphael Yun. I suggest you take your dying brother in-law and leave. I don't want him to soil my expensive leather."

Raphael smiled, startling Vlad.

"Did you read those documents before you signed them?"

Vlad frowned. Her gaze went to the tablet on the desk, the screen now filled with the Pan Limited logo.

"Of course, Talin has given me control of his shares in Pan Limited. I have won, Raphael."

"The problem with you is that you don't think anyone would dare cross you," Talin said, tired, his strength waning. "I might be dying, but you're a fool, Vlad."

"You dare—

Her cell phone buzzed and she scowled, answering on the second buzz.

Talin glanced at Raphael who gave him an assuring nod. Talin breathed out in relief, and started to get up. The world shifted, his vision blurring. He sat back in his seat hard.

His chest felt constricted, Talin gasped in air, bringing his hand up to his tight chest.

"Talin?" Raphael started to reach for him only to be shoved aside by Vlad.

Her eyes murderous, she had her hands wrapped around Talin's neck in a blink. Her fingers tight around his neck, pressing down on his windpipe, cutting off the little air he was getting. She threw all her weight on him, forcing him back in his seat.

"Where is my money?" she demanded. "Where is my fucking money? You thought this was a painful death, I'm going to skin you alive."

Talin grinned at her, though it felt like he was losing control of his body. His vision turned blurry. In the periphery, he could see Raphael struggling with the bodyguard who'd been at the door.

"Your money is in a safe place. Thank you for authorizing the purchase of Pajari Industries," he choked. "I told you, your ego would be your undoing."

Vlad's expression turned ugly, her eyes filled with anger. Fear grew so deep, at the thought of hers being the last face he saw. Talin scratched her abnormally strong arms, but he was weak. Dark spots filled his blurry vision and he mourned not having seen Dimitri's handsome face one last time.

***

Lucian moved with speed, neutralizing guards with precision. Dimitri was at once impressed and worried. Worried because Lucian's loyalty was still unknown, yet he followed him deeper into Vlad's lair.

Dimitri was glad when they emerged from the long corridor to an open hall, lined with cargo boxes. He recognized some from his jaunts across the lake, others were new. Lucian raced from one box to another, until they reached another corridor across the large hall.

There were no guards in the quiet area, and as the walls turned to a deep burgundy, Dimitri realized they'd arrived at Vlad's residence.

They entered a familiar living area, through to the kitchen where Dimitri had first met Vlad. The countertops were clean, spotless. Lucian entered the dining room and motioned to a closed door across the room.

"She'll have four guards waiting outside her study," Lucian said, his tone barely a whisper. "One inside to keep your boyfriend and Raphael in line. Don't hesitate; they're trained to shoot on sight."

Dimitri nodded and following behind Lucian. Meeting Lucian's gaze, Dimitri gave him a short nod, and Lucian opened the door with stealth. In less than a minute, the four guards were down. Eager to see that Talin was fine, Dimitri opened the door to the study room.

The sight of Vlad kneeling over Talin in a leather armchair blinded him with rage. Forgetting all the reasons why he needed Vlad alive, Dimitri aimed at her head, and pulled the trigger with deadly accuracy.

Vlad fell back with a gasp, long dead as she hit the wooden floor.

Dimitri raced to Talin's side, panic seizing him when Talin didn't move. Talin sat slumped in the chair, his eyes closed.

"Talin." Dimitri shook him, dropping the gun on the floor. He pulled Talin into his arms. "Talin, wake up, baby. Open your eyes."

Talin's eyes remained closed.

Dimitri felt tears sting his eyes, he pressed shaking fingers against Talin's neck, looking for a pulse. The thundering noise in his ears wouldn't let him concentrate enough to find that delicate throb.

"No," Dimitri said, shaking his head.

Wrapping his arms around Talin, he picked him up and kicked the armchair away. Falling to his knees, he laid Talin on the floor and checked his pulse again.

His heart almost jumped out with joy when he detected a slow beat.

"Is he alright?" Raphael demanded kneeling across him. "Is he a—alive?"

"Slow pulse," Dimitri said, busy getting Talin comfortable. He removed his jacket and covered Talin with it because Talin felt too cold. "Did you get the antidote?"

When Raphael didn't answer him, he looked up.

"Did you get the antidote, Raphael?"

Raphael sighed and pointed to broken glass a few feet away.

"She played us. You shouldn't have shot her dead so quickly."

Dimitri stared at the broken glass in shock.

"What?"

Raphael took Talin's left hand and squeezed it tight.

"He's going to die. We have no options left—

Dimitri shook his head, already reaching for his cell phone.

"We need to get him to a hospital. They can slow down the process until your people generate—

"It won't work," Lucian said behind him. "The poison is lethal, his symptoms are nothing compared to what he'll go through when that poison activates. The best the hospital can do is keep him in a coma to escape the pain."

Dimitri turned to look at Lucian and for the first time in his life begged.

"Please help him. You must know where she hid the antidote."

Lucian hesitated, and Dimitri seized on that.

"Lucian—

"What do I get in return?" Lucian asked. "You've killed Vlad; her allies will think I did it for revenge. What do you think will happen next?"

"You get to live," Raphael said.

"No, I'll have to go on the run," Lucian answered. "Helping you will make things worse for me."

"Don't do this," Dimitri said in a whisper.

"Don't beg me so pitifully," Lucian said, his eyes glittering with anger.

Dimitri took in a sharp breath when Lucian pointed his gun at him.

"Stop it," Ilia ordered, walking into the study followed by Himura.

Himura immediately rushed to Talin's side, while Ilia moved to stand beside his brother.

"What are you doing?" Ilia asked Lucian.

"Following the plan," Lucian said. "What took you so long?"

"The semtex on the doors," Ilia said, glancing at Dimitri. "His men got the bomb deactivated. They drove off in a hurry, talking about saving the women in the van."

Dimitri held Lucian's gaze.

"What do you want?" Dimitri asked Lucian. "What plan?"

Ilia sighed and turned to look at him.

"The plan to take over Vlad's network," Ilia said with a small smile.

Raphael started to get up, and Lucian fired a shot a few feet away from Talin.

"Don't play the hero, Raphael Yun," Lucian said. "Now we all have something to lose. Dimitri more than most, I suggest you listen to my brother."

"The antidote first," Dimitri said.

"I don't—," Ilia started.

"The antidote!" Raphael shouted. "Or we all die here, and no one will get what they want."

A tense minute passed, before Ilia gave a dramatic sigh.

"Alright then, let's save sweet Talin first. The tension in this room is killing me," Ilia said with a suffering tone.

He moved to Vlad's body, and spent a few minutes running his hands over her body.

Dimitri looked away when Ilia ripped the neckline on the purple dress Vlad wore.

"Here we go," Ilia said straightening up. He held a blue vial up with a grin. "She liked to keep it close to her heart."

Dimitri held his hand out for it, and Ilia narrowed his gaze.

"Remember, you promised to do what I ask," Ilia said.

"Give it to me," Dimitri growled.

Ilia smiled and handed him the vial. Raphael pushed away Dimitri's jacket and spent a few minutes looking in Talin's jacket pockets. He produced the small metallic box Dimitri had seen Talin use for his meds earlier. Thankfully, there was a new needle in the box.

It took a few minutes to administer the antidote. Dimitri's shaking hands stopped him from being able to make the necessary injection, so Himura took over. Injecting the precious liquid into Talin's left arm with practiced ease.

Dimitri swept dark hair away from Talin's face, worried about the sweat coating Talin's forehead. He pressed a kiss on Talin's lips, his heart plummeting when there was no response. He was terrified they were late. Afraid he'd lose Talin after all...

When Dimitri pulled Talin into his arms and held Talin tight with a soft sob, Raphael squeezed Dimitri's right shoulder, and got to his feet.

"I'll handle this now, leave Talin and Dimitri out of this mess," Raphael said. "Lucian, Dimitri's free of you, is this understood?"

"As long as you hold up your end of the deal," Lucian said.

"Don't worry," Raphael said. "I keep my promises."

Dimitri buried his face into Talin's shoulder, and rocked back and forth. Shouts outside the study room reached them, and Himura got up, rushing to the door. He came back a few minutes with a sigh.

"Police," Himura said.

"Who called them?" Lucian demanded.

"No time to find out," Ilia said. "We need to go."

Dimitri remained on the floor, still holding Talin.

"Dimitri," Raphael urged.

"Get out of here," Dimitri said, staring at Talin's closed eyes, willing them to open. "You've done all you can for us."

"Dimitri—," Raphael continued to protest.

"Go," Dimitri hissed sparing Raphael a short glance. "Just go."

The shouts outside the study were getting closer. Ilia and Lucian had opened a hidden passageway in the wall to the right. Raphael and Himura followed, worried expressions on their faces. Dimitri watched the hidden door slide closed, and turned to Talin just as Detective Oman rushed into the room.

***

A steady beep woke Talin.

The scent of antiseptic filled his nostrils next, his eyes opened, his vision, blurry at first, focused on a white ceiling. His body felt raw: very sore and achy. Swallowing hard, he sighed at how dry his mouth felt. Closing his eyes for a moment, he shifted on the pillows, and started to lift his right hand to rub his nose.

But his hand felt caught in a vice.

Lifting his head slowly, he stared at the dark head resting on the mattress near his thigh. His heart jumped, elated.

Dimitri held his hand tight.

Dimitri.

Those dark wavy strands called to his fingers.

His head fell back on the pillows.

The movement had Dimitri sitting up fast, and Talin smiled when frantic blue eyes met his. There were no words to express the love that surged through him; all he could do was stare.

"You're awake."

Talin nodded, words lost.

Dimitri let out a relieved sigh.

"You're awake," Dimitri repeated with more strength, and Talin frowned when tears filled those gorgeous blue eyes. "Thank you for waking up."

Talin felt as though he needed to speak, but when he tried, his dry throat wouldn't form words. Dimitri squeezed his hand and stood to hug him. Dimitri lifted him into his arms in a gentle hug that infused warmth into Talin.

Talin closed his eyes feeling relieved for the first time in weeks as he breathed in Dimitri's scent.

"I love you, Talin," Dimitri said into his ear.

Happiness burst through Talin. He started to hold Dimitri, but the sight of police officers at the doors had him frowning. Detective Oman came into the room, and stopped at the foot of his bed.

Talin wrapped his arms around Dimitri.

"I have to go, babe," Dimitri pressed a kiss on his jaw. "There are things I need to clear with the detective."

Talin shook his head unwilling to let go of Dimitri.

"We've waited long enough, Sedlackov," Detective Oman said.

Dimitri helped Talin lie back.

"I'll be gone, but Kat and Lukas are around. Lori will visit too. You're not alone."

The calm in Dimitri's voice was new, but still...the worry grew deep inside. Talin swallowed hard and willed his voice to cooperate.

"W—where are you going?" His voice sounded scratchy and rough to his ears. "Vlad—

"Vlad's dead," Dimitri said. "Don't worry, Talin. It will work out."

"Dimitri," Talin held on to Dimitri's right upper arm.

"I'll come back to you." Dimitri kissed him. "I promise. Get some sleep."

Talin sighed and watched Dimitri leave with the detective, feeling helpless. He worried until sleep claimed him again.

****

The next time Talin woke to soft feminine voices talking over him.

"The doctor says to let him rest as much as possible. His body needs to recover strength."

_That was Katerina,_ Talin thought through the heavy fog.

"Will he go home to the loft?"

_Lori_.

What time was it?

She was supposed to watch out for the club.

"Dimitri would like it very much if he came to stay with us at the marina." Katerina let out a sigh. "But that's impossible right now. Since the investigations started, our home looks like a crime scene. It's not the best place for recovery."

"Talin is most comfortable at the loft," Lori said.

"Yeah," Katerina said. "I'm just glad he's alive."

"I still don't know what happened. How did he get sick?" Lori sounded upset. "I saw him at the club, and he seemed healthy. To see him in here, with all these equipment attached is shocking."

"It's a long story," Katerina said. "I'll let him tell you when he's ready."

"What about Dimitri?" Lori asked. "Is it true he was involved with the Russian mob? It's all over the news."

Talin opened his eyes then curious about that statement. Dimitri on the news meant he hadn't dreamed up the police and Detective Oman in his hospital room. They had taken Dimitri.

"Talin," Katerina exclaimed appearing on his left side. She rubbed his upper left arm. "You're awake."

Talin frowned.

"What was that about Dimitri?" he rasped out.

Katerina frowned and gave Lori a small scowl. "There's nothing to worry about."

Talin reached for Katerina's hand and held it tight.

"Tell me," he pleaded.

Katerina sighed and met Lori's gaze before she said, "Dimitri was arrested. Colston PD is investigating Vlad's operations, and the marina."

Talin started to sit up. He couldn't lie here when Dimitri needed him.

"See," Katerina pushed him back with a soft curse. "Dimitri was right. He said you'd want to jump out of bed and rush to his side. But you can't, Talin."

"Dimitri needs me," Talin hissed, kicking the covers away determined to check out of the hospital. "Help me up."

"Not yet, you just survived a major scare, Talin," Lori said. "Please stop this. Dimitri is fine."

Talin shook his head. "No."

A nurse rushed into the room, and minutes later, he was fighting oblivion, his gaze on a tearful Katerina.

***

Two Months Later

Dimitri removed the security camera he'd installed weeks ago meaning to protect Talin. Climbing down the ladder, he dumped the gadget into his toolbox and removed his gloves.

Autumn was in full swing, the air getting colder with each passing day. Dimitri stepped up to the balcony, and studied the parking lot below. It was almost eight o'clock. The parking lot was filling with cars; soon there would be no space. The Talon lived on despite the turmoil that had filled his and Talin's lives these past weeks.

Dimitri reached into his jeans pocket and took the keys he'd kept for a week now. He'd wanted to be sure that there would be no scary repercussions from his decision to call Detective Oman.

That night, holding an unconscious Talin in his arms—, his fingers closed over the keys. That moment, thinking Talin dead, was the most painful he'd ever had in his life.

Dimitri had vowed never to feel that pain again. He could have run like Ilia and Lucian had, but that would have meant dragging Talin along.

When the detective had arrested him, Dimitri cooperated as much as he could. The investigation into the marina was hard on Lukas and Katerina. But, it had soon passed when it became clear the marina was run clean. Lukas and Katerina were cleared, and they now ran the marina peacefully.

His case however had dragged on. Vlad's murder, the bodies found in the warehouse, had all seemed damning. It had helped to have Vlad's illicit cargo in her warehouse. Not to mention the poor girls she'd smuggled into Colston. The ones Sean and Tomas helped rescue. Dimitri had given Detective Oman enough information to help capture most of Vlad's acquaintances in the city. The lawyer Raphael sent him had helped broker a deal with the prosecutor. Thanks to Raphael's help, Dimitri's cooperation against the Colston _Bratv_ a had kept him out of jail.

"Dimitri?" Talin's sexy voice cut through his thoughts, drawing his gaze to his right.

Talin looked good.

_Healthy_ , Dimitri thought.

In a pair of grey slacks and white shirt, his long hair windblown, Talin looked too enticing.

Holding out his hand, he smiled when Talin closed the distance between them. Talin wrapped his arms around Dimitri, burying his face into Dimitri's chest.

They fit.

"Hey."

"What are you doing out here?" Talin asked. "It's cold."

Dimitri rubbed his hands over Talin's back and then brushed his fingers through Talin's silky hair.

"I was removing the surveillance camera I put up." Dimitri kissed the top of Talin's head. "I think it's time."

"We didn't get to find out who was sending those messages." Talin sighed. "That bastard owes me paint for my door."

"Detective Oman said it was Ken Luther," Dimitri said. "They caught him living in a condemned house a few blocks from here."

Talin bunched Dimitri's shirt in a gentle hold.

"That's not surprising. He had a thing for you."

"Actually," Dimitri sunk his fingers into Talin's hair and tilted his head back. "Ken had a thing for _you_ , my love. He had pictures of you on his walls. Those drugs didn't do him good. They said he wanted to protect you from me."

Talin held his gaze.

"Then Ken was quite misguided. I don't need any protection from you."

Dimitri smiled and leaned to kiss him. He forgot about cold weather when Talin moaned and kissed him back with enthusiasm. Passion igniting, Talin clung to him, moving closer to him.

Talin sighed when they broke apart.

"Raphael called."

"What does he want?" Dimitri asked.

Talin grinned.

"He helped you out, Dimitri."

"Yeah well, he skipped out of town pretty quick when shit hit the fan."

Talin shrugged.

"It's better for all of us. He sold back Pajari Industries to Lucian and Ilia as they wanted. They've left the country, heading to Moscow. Colston is safe from them, for now."

"Good riddance," Dimitri said with a satisfied nod. "What about Pan Limited?"

"I suppose I'll watch over it," Talin said. "That's if you don't mind a husband who travels from time to time."

Dimitri blinked.

"What did you say?"

Talin blushed and hid his face in Dimitri's chest.

Dimitri chuckled and held Talin tight.

"Are you asking me to be your husband?"

Talin nodded. "It doesn't have to be now—

"Yes." Dimitri cut in before Talin could come up with a reason to wait. "The answer is yes."

Talin let out a relieved sigh.

Dimitri dangled the keys in the air, making them jingle and Talin looked at them.

"Whose keys are those?" Talin asked. "Did you change the locks again?"

"Keys to our new house," Dimitri said with a smile.

Talin's eyes widened with pleasure.

"What?" Talin asked. "When? How?"

"You're forgetting where," Dimitri said.

Talin grabbed the keys out of his hand.

"Where is our new house?"

"By the lake, about twenty minutes away from the club, thirty from the marina," Dimitri answered. "Secluded, safe, good neighborhood, no chance of interference from organized criminals."

Talin held the keys against his chest and leaned up to kiss him.

"I love you, Dimitri."

"I love you," Dimitri said against Talin's soft lips.

They stayed there talking and kissing, then Talin took his arm, leading him into the loft. Dimitri smiled when Talin made a point of closing the door before he stripped out of the white shirt he wore.

"Do I get to plant my rose in a garden?" Talin asked.

Dimitri's gaze fell on the little rose growing in a pot. It sat on the coffee table this time; Talin moved it around the loft chasing the sunlight. It had bloomed twice, deep red roses that made Talin smile at the sight of them.

Dimitri reached for Talin, pulling him into his arms for a scorching kiss.

"I'll buy you a dozen bushes if you wish," Dimitri said, trailing kisses along Talin's bare shoulder. "Anything you want, Talin."

"All I want is you," Talin answered. "Always you, Dimitri."

As Dimitri lifted Talin into his arms, heading to the bedroom, he knew in his heart too, that all he ever wanted was Talin in his life.

****

Fin

###

About the Author

Suilan Lee writes, she reads, and in between these, she works for a non-profit organization with many amazing and inspiring individuals. She believes love comes from the most unexpected of places. She loves a great cup of tea masala, and her ideal moment is early in the morning, walking along the beach with only the waves crashing to shore for company.

' _Knowing that the world can be wonderful, cruel, harsh, fierce...amazing. I have come to believe that no matter what my circumstance, the world is what I make it.'- Lee Suilan_

Connect with Suilan

Twitter: @LeeSuilan

Facebook: Suilan Lee

Blog: Suilan's Blog

Thank you for reading Dimitri & Talin's Story.

If you loved it, check out Suilan's other books.

A Rescued Life

You Make Me...Crazy

Electric Blue & Catnip

Blu Dream

Kiss Me to Spring Time

The Precious Teahouse

Silver Ice

And others...find them on Smashwords
