The side room was dim, lit by a single lamp, heavy drapes blocking the night. Bookshelves loomed, a leather sofa squat in the corner. Vardo released her with a shove, spinning to face her, chest heaving. 'You did this, didn't you? Leaked it to bury me.' His face twisted, rage boiling over, eyes wild. Nia backed against the wall, heart pounding, but fire met his. 'Me? You're delusional. This is your mess—shady deals blowing up because you can't keep your hands clean.' She jabbed back, voice low and venomous, stepping into his space despite the tremor in her legs.
He loomed closer, towering, the scent of scotch and cologne invading her senses. 'Bullshit. You've been dodging me, whispering in Vince's ear, turning him against his own blood.' His hand shot out, slamming the wall beside her hea
