A muscle ticked in Petrov’s cheek. “I came from nothing. Now I am worth millions. Do you think the mistakes of a fool like Henson could begin to destroy my empire?”

Edge’s gaze remained on Petrov. “It occurred to me, but apparently not.” He took a drink of the thick, black coffee. “So, to point out the obvious, at the moment, one of your top men is no longer available. You need to move things forward. We can help you fill the void.”

Petrov toyed with the handle of his delicate cup. “Da, perhaps.” He nodded. “You could be of great service to me, but first I must be sure I can trust you. For that to happen, you must complete the task I have set for you. If you do it with the skill and efficiency you promise, the two of you will have earned a place in my organization.”

Adrenaline pumped through Edge’s veins. “What is it you want us to do?”

“Not us, Mr. Logan. Not this time. You alone will go with Dutch to handle the pickup. Ms. Delaney will remain in Las Vegas as a guest in my home.”

A chill went through him. He shook his head. “We work together. That’s the deal.”

Petrov tossed his napkin down on the table, an angry flush coloring the skin over his cheeks. “I give the orders here—not you. She stays. You go. Once you have proven yourself, we will do as you suggest and move forward. That is the deal.”

“And if I refuse?”

“You no longer have that option.” Petrov shoved back his chair and rose from the table. At the same time, Dutch stepped out of the shadows, putting a human wall between Edge and Petrov, the threat more than clear.

“Now if you will excuse me.” The Russian turned to the platinum blonde. “Sasha and I are leaving. Ms. Delaney will be joining us. Dutch will explain your duties.”

Edge’s blood pounded. He didn’t want Skye staying with Petrov. He didn’t want her anywhere near the Russian. He forced himself to stay calm.

Petrov’s gaze went to Skye. “I assure you, my dear, your accommodations will be as luxurious as your rooms at the Bellagio.”

Skye flicked Edge a glance, then gave a nod of acceptance. She was ready for this. Edge knew how capable she was. He needed to trust her to handle the situation. They were in too deep to turn back now.

Still, everything inside urged him to protect her, to haul her out of the restaurant and as far from Petrov’s slimy clutches as he could get.

He started to rise as Petrov led the women away, felt Dutch’s big hand on his shoulder, warning him to sit back down. “Take it easy. We handle the job, then you come back and get your woman. Long as you don’t fuck up, everything’ll be okay.”