Black Thorns (Thorns Duet #2) by Rina Kent

“You’re right.” She smiles. “I’m glad I can speak to you face-to-face and not through a phone.”

“Me, too, Mio.”

We talk about Japan and the cherry blossoms that she loves so much. Then Mio tells me about her studies and her kendo training that she’s obviously obsessed with.

When she’s done, I clear my throat. “Do you have something else to tell me?”

She traps her bamboo sword between her legs as she picks at the grass. “Like what?”

“Kai was actually cooperative for once and told me what’s going on.”

She frowns. “That fox. He promised not to get you involved.”

“You think he promised, but he probably manipulated you into thinking that, Mio.”

“Probably.”

“So?”

“So what?” She’s still gripping grass in her fists.

“Are you going to tell me about agreeing to marry some Russian mobster?”

“Papa said it’s to help our family.”

“Your papa only cares about himself, Mio. You should know that by now.”

“But…I don’t want him or you in danger.”

“Me? Why would I be in danger?”

“Papa said you and Mori-san could be targeted because of Mori-san’s new business endeavors. He’s having problems setting up his new company because of all the customs bureaucracy, no? If I marry into the Russians, they won’t only help, but they’ll also provide you protection.”

That bastard.

He knew exactly which cards to play to make Mio agree. Father and I are her world, and she’d agree to hell if it means protecting us.

“Akira and I aren’t in danger. And even if we were, we can protect ourselves.”

“You don’t know that.”

“Mio…”

“I’ll play my part, too, Onee-chan.”

“But the Russian mafia is dangerous.”

“Mori-san is also dangerous, and you’re doing just fine.”

“That’s different. Akira was my friend before and he’s not a mobster. The Russian mafia is notorious for its ruthlessness, and Dad plans to marry you off to one of their leaders. They’re known for their violence and could hurt you, Mio.”

She jumps up, holding her sword in a defense position. “I can protect myself.”

I shake my head but don’t press it. Instead, I choose to spend a peaceful day with her.

We have lunch together and talk about everything and nothing. We’re basically each other’s only friend. Being with her brings back memories of college days when I didn’t really have friends.

Except for Lucy and Reina at the end.

Sometimes, I consider calling them and getting together, but the thought of putting them in danger has always stopped me. Except for that one time I got drunk and texted Reina and nearly poured my heart out to her.

Mio is pouting when I have to leave at the end of the evening. So I promise to spend more time with her now that I’m back. Something that makes her smile and wave me off.

I drive home, my head still filled with endless thoughts and theories.

Spending time with Mio, no matter how fun, didn’t purge away what happened this morning.

I can’t purge away the image of Sebastian’s hand, lips, and words.

Hell. I can’t even forget the sound of his voice.

I didn’t leave him my phone number before I stormed out of his office, but I keep checking my messages anyway, as if he’d magically get the number.

It wouldn’t be the first time he’s gotten my number behind my back.

Stopping the car in the driveway, I take a moment to gather myself, then I make a few work calls and schedule some meetings. I take the legacy Mom left behind seriously, even if only from the administrative side. Amanda, who was Mom’s assistant and is now mine, takes care of diva designers and all that jazz.

Work keeps me busy enough to not think about other things, but that was before.

I have a feeling it will no longer apply now that my world has collided with Sebastian’s again.

After finishing my check-in calls with Amanda, I step into the house.

I pause at the sound of arguing coming from Akira’s office. This late?

For the seven years I’ve been married to him, Akira has always been as meticulous as fuck about his working hours versus his resting ones.

Any time after seven is his ‘me time’ that no one dares to interfere with.

Also, arguing?

The occurrence is so rare that I stop and listen outside his office, but I can’t really hear the words. Just a male voice.

And it’s not Akira’s.

I knew my husband wouldn’t be arguing. The man doesn’t raise his voice and still accomplishes whatever he sets out to do.

Sometimes, it feels like he’s a samurai in modern times. Or maybe a lethal ninja.

I’m about to continue on my way when the door of Akira’s office swings open and Ren storms out, slamming it shut behind him.

He comes to a screeching halt upon seeing me, his face contorted as he bows in greeting.

I don’t bow back. “Ah, I should’ve known the arguing would be all you.”

“Are you happy?”

I smile. “About your misery? Very.”

“That doesn’t erase yours, Ojou-sama,” He mocks.