I half hide behind Ava, but his gaze remains the same. If he tells Jer I came here despite his clear warnings, I’m doomed to another episode in the ivory tower.
Wait.
I move sideways and Nikolai’s gaze doesn’t track me.
It’s on…
I follow his line of vision to find a stiffening Brandon who’s standing behind us. His hand pulls at the back of his hair as he meets Nikolai’s savage gaze, lips pursed, eyes hard.
It’s the first time I’ve ever seen him look so upset, so…perturbed.
“Bran!” Ava jumps him in a half hug. “What are you doing here?”
His expression reverts back to normal and he drops his hand from his nape. “Remi begged us via the group chat.”
“He did?” Cecily asks. “How much do I have to bribe you to show us that?”
“No need for a bribe.” He fishes out his phone and scrolls to a group chat calledLord Remi’s Sidekicks.
Remington:My favorite—and only, might I add—spawn will be fighting in the semifinals tonight! I’m going to need you all to come and cheer for our youngest little shit. I have tears in my eyes, I swear. When did he become all grown up?
Eli:Stop talking about him as if he’s a kid.
Remington:Fuck off, psycho. You call him baby brother all the time.
Eli:But only I get to do that.
Landon:We can always do it behind your back.
Eli:Not if you wish to live another day. He’s my brother.
Landon:And my baby cousin.
*Creighton left the chat*
Remington:Blah, blah, blah. You scared my spawn away with all your ramblings. He’s my cousin and my spawn, but you don’t see me bragging about that, though I totally should. Anyway, who’s going to be at the fight club?
*Remington added Creighton to the chat*
Brandon:You know violence isn’t my scene.
Landon:Beg first, your lordship.
Eli:Yes, beg. And make it worth our while.
Remington:What kind of fucked-up kink is this? The only time I’ll beg is when both of you are shoved into hell. That’s when I’ll get on my knees and plead with Satan to skin you alive and let me watch.
Landon:I guess that means you’ll go alone.
Eli:We would hate for you to look sad, Remi.
Landon:The fangirls wouldn’t approve.
Eli:You might lose shagging rights.
Remington:Fine, you fuckers. Please come.
Landon:Pun intended?