The Devil's Den (De Kysa Mafia #1)

by Penny Dee

“There is no end for us,” he says with certainty. “It would be like trying to stop the tides. Impossible. My reason for breathing is you.”

Massimo fixes me with a suspicious look. “Last I heard, she abandoned the life and moved to London. Became an artist or something.” “She works at a gallery as an art curator. She paints on the side.” Massimo’s brows disappear up his forehead. “You’ve been keeping track of her?” “Now that she’s the future Mrs. De Kysa, yes.” “I should’ve known, you tenacious fuck.” He chuckles and sips his scotch. “You really think Vincent Isle Ciccula will go for it?” “He won’t have a choice.” “And Bella? I remember her stubbornness even as a kid. She won’t be easy to convince.” “She’ll do it out of duty for her father.” “Maybe, but she’ll fight you.” The idea spins excitement through me. “Which will only make it more interesting.” He shakes his head. “You’re really going through with it?” “My plans are set,” I assure him. “All I need to do is press the detonator.”

It’s funny how someone not worth your time can silently destroy your confidence when they’re not even in your life anymore.

“I’m not going to flee the country.” She folds her arms. “You see, I’ve had time to think while I’ve been locked up in here, and I think I’d much rather stick around and make sure your life is hell. And what better way to do that than to marry you?”

“Obviously, you have something in mind. What is it?” “I want to be able to leave the apartment when I want and do things when I want to do them.” “Fine, but you’ll take one of my men with you at all times. And the only vehicle you drive from now on is one of my cars. They’re custom-built to protect the interior from bullets, shrapnel, and certain explosive devices.” She cocks her hip. “Fine.” “Fine?” “Yes. Does that mean we have a deal?” “Looks that way.” Her eyes narrow. “You’re not going to renege on our agreement the moment you get the gun back, are you?” “No.” “How do I know? Maybe we should pinky swear it.” I shoot a raised eyebrow at her. “If you even try to make me pinky swear, I’ll shoot myself in the head.” “Well, you need a gun for that, and will you look at that? I’m the one with the gun.”

If you ever put your hands on me again, Don De Kysa, then as your queen, I will destroy you.

I dig my nails into his arm. “You savage.” He growls with appreciation. “Keep digging your claws in, hellcat, and I’ll show you how savage I can be.”

“You’re safe,” he says, holding me tight. But I don’t feel safe. And I don’t think I will ever feel safe again.

“Hello, baby. I’m your papa, and I’m going to make it my purpose in life to make you as happy as your beautiful mama makes me.” And kneeling in front of me, he places a kiss on my belly.

My name is Nico. And it’s a fucking pleasure to meet you.