Chapter 11 - The Unlikely Prisoner|
We threw Igor into the back of the SUV, peeling out of the alleyway just as police sirens began wailing in the distance. The ride back up the mountain was fueled by adrenaline and confusion. My men were silent, scanning the dark roads for any signs of pursuit.
"Who were they?" I demanded, turning to look at Igor, who was clutching a bleeding gash on his forehead.
"I don't know!" Igor spat, wincing as he applied pressure to the wound. "Viktor did not order this. We want your territory, yes, but we are not butchers. We do not shoot up crowded clubs filled with civilians."
"Someone is trying to force our hands," Marcus said from the front seat. "If you had killed Igor, or if Igor had killed you, a gang war would have decimated both families. The third party would just sweep in and take the ashes."
"The Corsicans," I realized, the name leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. "They were driven out of the city ten years ago by my father. They must have rebuilt their strength overseas and returned."
"If it is the Corsicans, we are both dead," Igor muttered grimly. "They do not leave survivors. They only leave examples."
I pulled out my phone and dialed the estate's encrypted line. Clara answered on the first ring.
"Sebastian? Are you okay?"
"I'm fine, but the situation has changed," I told her, keeping my voice steady. "Keep Emma in the safe room. Do not trust local law enforcement. We have a third player in the city. I'm bringing a guest back to the estate."
May you like
"A guest? Sebastian, what is happening?"
"I'll explain everything when I arrive. Just stay safe." I hung up the phone and looked back at Igor. "Congratulations, Igor. For the time being, you are under the protection of the Vale family. But if you try to cross me, I'll throw you to the wolves myself."
