“Let me offer you a better deal, I—” Xavier began, but Artyom cut him off.

“How could I be interested in a deal when I already have a big shark in my tank?” Artyom snapped.

Xavier’s attention shifted briefly to Kris, who bowed and left us alone with Artyom.

“It depends on what you want. I’m only making an offer,” Xavier said calmly.

Hamza brought Marina forward, her handcuffs clinking as he held the chain. Her sudden presence seemed to surprise Artyom, his expression ...