Then I dialed the number of the man who pulled me out of hell. Colt Blackwood.
When he answered, I said quietly, “I... I need a favor.”
I looked around at the Vanderbilt mansion. At the mafia empire built on blood and lies.
“I will destroy the Vanderbilt Group just like you wanted. This time I won't stop you,” I said. “In return, I want me and my son safe.”
And for the first time since my captivity, I meant every word.
Back in Ryle’s room, I moved quietly.
I folded his clothes. Grabbed our passports. Birth certificate. Bank cards. A few things I could not replace if I lost them again.
I did not take much.
I had learned what it meant to live with nothing.
When I finally lay down, I pulled Ryle into my arms. His body was stiff even in sleep, like he was afraid to relax. I kissed his hair and closed my eyes.
Footsteps stopped by the bed.
“Still sulking?” David’s voice came lazily out of the dark.
The mattress dipped. He reached out and dragged me against his chest, one arm locking around my waist. His tone softened, like he was soothing a child.