Taken by a Sinner (Sinners 1)

Shit. I forgot about the guards.

It’s on the tip of my tongue to argue when Nikolas pulls me to a stop, and his eyes lock with mine. There’s a clear dare in his dark irises as he waits for me to defy his order.

When I keep quiet, a triumphant smile stretches over his stupidly attractive face.

Nikolas takes a step closer and presses a kiss to my forehead. I’ve seen him do the same with Athina, but still, it feels sinful, sending another rush of totally unwanted tingles racing over my skin. Then the asshole moves his mouth to my ear and whispers, “Much better, koritsáki.”

The way he says little girl makes it sound like there’s a deeper meaning.

Pulling back, he adds, “I’ll see you for lunch tomorrow.”

The word ‘but’ forms on my lips. One sharp look from Nikolas has me swallowing it.

I freaking hate you.

As if he can read my thoughts, he says, “You’ll learn to love me soon enough, little sister.”

Instead of telling him that will never happen, I take a step back. “Goodnight, Nikolas.”

“Sweet dreams.” The reply is filled with a world of taunting, and I swear I hear him chuckle as I leave the mansion with the two guards in tow.

Chapter 8

Tess

After my advanced cinematography class, where I got to touch a new state-of-the-art digital camera with prime lenses, I leave the bustling campus, trying to ignore the two guards behind me.

I can’t even relish the amazing lecture I just had.

It sucks.

Glancing over my shoulder, I scowl at the guards wishing they’d disappear.

I haven’t heard from or seen Nikolas since lunch on Sunday, and I’m hoping it’s a good sign that I’ll only have to deal with him on Sundays.

One can hope.

Letting out a sigh, I head in the opposite direction of my apartment, hoping to get more shots of the city and people for the screenplay I’m producing.

Reaching the David Lam park, I set my backpack down and dig my digital camera out. When I feel James and Grant breathing down my neck, I shoot a scowl their way. “Do you mind? I need some space.”

James takes a couple of steps back, but Grant gives me a glare filled with warning before he joins his partner.

Jerk.

I haven’t spoken to them much and don’t plan to. They work for Nikolas, and that’s the end of the story.

Adjusting the lens, I get into position. When I have the perfect view in my sights, I press record and slowly sweep the lens over the green lawn, and some ducks slipping into the water. I record the water rippling against the smooth rocks for a couple of minutes, so I can speed it up for a good effect.

I move, one with the camera, getting a shot of blossoms drifting from a tree before focusing on the city buildings framing the park.

I stop recording, then replay the clip, a smile spreading over my face.

Perfect.

Turning to the path, I press record again, focusing on the paving before swooping the lens up toward… ugh. James and Grant.

I don’t stop recording but get a good shot of them in a serious conversation, giving off heavy mafia vibes.

I can use that for the danger aspect of my screenplay.

Who would’ve thought the guards would come in handy.

I move to get a better shot of the path and focus on a pair of shiny black shoes walking toward me. The person’s steps are confident. Then, ever so slowly, I bring the lens up the person’s legs. Black suit pants. A crisp white shirt and jacket.

Apprehension trickles through my veins as I start to realize who I have in my sights. Still, I keep recording until I have a full view of Nikolas, all fire and brimstone, heading right for me with a group of guards flaring out behind him as if they are his wings.

I quickly end the scene by slanting the camera and getting a shot of the blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds. Just as I press stop, Nikolas comes to a halt in front of me. He glances at the camera in my hand before hitting me with the full impact of his intense gaze.

I’ve always struggled with being social, but with Nikolas, it’s a million times worse, and I can’t think of a thing to say.

“How was school?” he asks.

“Good.” Then I think to ask, “How did you know I was here?”

He gestures to the guards.

Right.

His eyes lower to my camera again. “Did you record me?”

I wet my already dry lips. “By accident.”

“Show me.”

Shit. It was a good shot, and I’d hate to lose it.

Reluctantly, I rewind and turn the screen so Nikolas can see. He moves to my side, way too close, and I quickly press play to get it over with.

Damn, it’s really a good shot. He embodies everything the mafia stands for, and it definitely doesn’t hurt that he’s so damn attractive.