I stand there for what feels like hours. While Desya’s footsteps fade in the dark, my eyes fix on the churning river. Dark, deadlywaters.
I could have tried to ambush him here. Maybe, if I’d have brought my men, made a stand… But no. I know Desya. He isn’t thetype to get caught by something like this. No matter how careful we were, he would have noticed.
And then I’d have lost my chance to save them.
But now, I have his word. It might not be worth much, but it’ll hold. At least until our next game.
Which is why I have to make it our final game.
“Maks.” My phone cracks in my grip. “It’s done. Get it ready.”
Yulian’s car slows to a stop in front of the courthouse. I’m trembling with nerves. My palms are all clammy, my tongue dry assandpaper.
“Thanks,” I whisper. “For driving me.”
It’
