"I must admit, I'm curious," Xavier continued from somewhere behind Jordan. "Did Victor really think one man could succeed where an entire team failed?" A pause. "Or perhaps he simply considered you... expendable."
Jordan felt Xavier's presence directly behind him, could sense the man leaning closer to his ear.
"Tell me, Jordan," Xavier whispered, his breath hot against Jordan's neck. "How does it feel to be the sacrificial pawn in Victor's game?"
Jordan kept his eyes fixed on the wall ahead. "Better than being the king with no kingdom," he replied evenly. "How many territories have you f*****g lost to Victor this month? Three? Four?"
The sudden backhand caught Jordan across the jaw, snapping his head to the side. Pain exploded through his face, but he smiled through it, tasting fresh
