Venom's Alliance: Loyalty's Fracture

Chapter 21

Kalia's POV

I must have checked my phone a thousand times today, hoping for some confirmation from him, but each time, it remained disappointingly silent. Still, I clung to his promise. He said he'd come, and I had to trust that he would.

As I set my phone back down on the bed and walked over Easton's office, a sense of desperation washed over me. I hated how much I needed to see him again, to feel his presence one more time. The thought of going to his house crossed my mind, just to catch a glimpse of him. I could still vividly remember the mix of emotions on his face when he saw me last — relief, hunger, possessiveness — all hidden behind his calm look. It was clear he hated it when Xander touched me, and Xander seemed to know it too, judging by his smug smile in response to Jay's possessive growl.

My heart fluttered at the memory of Jay's control slipping for just a moment. I shook my head, trying to shake off the image of him in his office, dressed in a perfectly tailored suit that didn't hide his muscular frame and tall stature, his dark, messy hair adding to his allure. Even the thought of him with glasses was unbearably sexy.

It was like Jay had taken up permanent residence in my mind, his smile replaying over and over again. How I wished I had taken a picture of him, something to hold onto when he wasn't around.

Tony and I had come up with a perfect plan. I usually didn't pay attention to the news, but last night, Tony was watching it on the kitchen TV, and something caught my eye. The man I owed the debt that Sebastian left me had mysteriously burned down in his own casino. And that wasn't all; all his men went down with him, and his illegal activities were exposed. I wasn't sure who did it, but I was thankful for it. I wanted revenge, but it seemed like someone else did too. This gave me the perfect idea for how I'd deal with Chad. I'd destroy and incinerate all my past with him at the forefront.

Tony and I had found someone who might be able to help us out. I was going to meet them today, but first, I had to make sure Easton wouldn't find out. I knew the news Tony would give us today would divert Easton's focus away from me.

"What do you mean you're quitting?" Easton's voice crackled with a mixture of surprise and anger, his piercing gaze fixed on Tony.

We were in his office, Easton sat behind his desk, dressed in a sharp black tailored suit, ready to head out. I was on the couch, trying to keep my heart rate steady and maintain a facade of shock combined with calmness. I had to remain composed, not to arouse any suspicions. As far as Easton knew, this news was a revelation to me.

Tony's expression stayed calm, though. "I'm afraid my daughter needs me, Mr. Volkov," he said with real regret.

Easton's brow furrowed in disbelief. "I thought you didn't have a family?" His tone bordered on accusation, his skepticism clear.

Tony's response was steady, tinged with sadness. "I just found out a few weeks ago, Mr. Volkov. She called me asking for help. I'm her only family left."

A tense silence settled between them, thick with unspoken tension. I resisted the urge to step in, knowing that any wrong word could mess up the plan.

"Then bring her here. I'm sure we can find a place for her," Easton suggested, his voice softened with a bit of compassion.

Tony shook his head regretfully. "I can't. I'm sorry, Mr. Volkov. I've already found someone to take my place, someone you can trust."

As Easton's frustration threatened to boil over, I got up and walked over to him. Our eyes met, and we shared a silent understanding.

"I'll do the interview," I offered, my voice steady and reassuring. "I know it's a tough time, but family always comes first, Easton. I'm here to help you; don't worry." Turning to Tony, I added warmly, "Can I see them today? I have some free time before our weekend getaway."