Ruthless Heart

“So?” Nero looks blank.

“So, you don’t do that if you’re staying pushing papers on City Council,” I explain. “The guy clearly has ambitions for higher office. Mayor, senate, maybe Governor one day. Which means more scrutiny, security vetting, reporters digging up every dark secret he’s got. Any cash he takes now is going to haunt him down the road. A man with ambition like that? He won’t risk being associated with the likes of you.”

A muscle spasms in Nero’s jaw as I say those words, and my heart sinks. I’m pretty sure I just screwed up. Why did I have to let my mouth run away with me like that?

I brace myself to get dragged out of here, but instead, Nero’s lips curl in a dangerous smile.

I shiver.

“You seem to know a lot about the guy,” he says, wheels clearly turning in his mind.

I give what I hope is a careless shrug. “I read the tabloids, that’s all.”

“Oh, I think you’re smarter than that.” Nero’s voice is silky. Dangerous. “So smart, you can figure out a way to get me in a room with McKenna.”

“What?” I gulp. “Me?”

“Yes, you.” Nero states. “Tonight.”

“But—” I start to protest, but he silences me with a look.

“I’d think very hard before arguing, Princess. You’ll make this happen, alright. Your future depends on it.”