“I’m not sure what you’re speaking of.”

She shoots me a look. “Does anyone ever actually believe that innocent tone coming from you?”

“There’s always a first time.” From the stubborn set of her shoulders, she’s not going to let this go. I bite back a sigh. “It’s personal.”

“Between you and Broderick.”

“Between me and Shiloh.”

She raises her brows but finally nods. “Shiloh’s greatly beloved by Abel’s people. Watch your step. If you toy with her and make her cry, you’re going to have every single one of the Paines and all their followers howling for your blood.”

“I’ll take that into consideration.” The funny thing? I don’t plan on making Shiloh cry. Making her orgasm until she passes out? Definitely. But the only person I want to sink a dagger into and twist is Broderick. Even the other Paine brothers pale in comparison for the fury I feel for him. Sure, Abel beating one of our champions is the reason I’m a Bride, but that was a fair fight. I might not like the outcome, but I can respect it.

Broderick? I want him on his knees, crawling and broken. I want it with a strength that surpasses reason. It’s not because he’s rejected me. It’s because he’s a fucking liar and hypocrite. I can’t stand either. Really, I’m determined to make him suffer on principle. I’m practically obligated to do it.

She looks like she wants to say something else but finally shrugs. “I’ll be checking in with the Brides again in a few days. Let me know if you need anything in the meantime.”

“I’m good.” I’ve made a few requests to Harlow for various things, and she’s filled every single one without question or complaint. It would almost be enough to make me like her if we weren’t from rival factions that have hated each other since the dawn of Sabine Valley. She’d make one hell of an Amazon.

“See you in a couple days.”

“Harlow.” I speak without thinking. “I’d like to see my sister and uncle. Without the other Brides.”

Her expression goes careful. “You’ll be required to have at least one of our people present.”

“Your people.” I can’t help needling her, just a little. “How quickly you cleave to the Paine way of life. Abel must be one hell of a fuck.”

“No comment.” She doesn’t blink. “Agree, or it’s off.”

“Agreed.” It’s not as if the Paine brothers and their people aren’t already watching my every step.

“Good.” Harlow nods. “It’s getting late, so it won’t be tonight, but I’ll see what I can do about tomorrow. I’ll send for you when it’s arranged.”