Page 28 of Let Sleeping Vampires Lie

“Yes,” he said, “that one.”

Dimitri.

Even hearing the veiled reference made my stomach twist. But if the name opened doors, I’d swallow the bitter taste of being associated with him.

Marcus nodded slowly, listening, his brow creasing. “I understand the hesitation, but my client is prepared to pay whatever it takes.”

He stood straighter.

“Yes. Whatever it takes.”

The voice on the other end spoke for a long stretch. Marcus didn’t interrupt, but the way he pressed two fingertips into his brow told me patience was costing him.

Finally, he spoke again. “Fine. Then give me the auction details.”

All of us stepped closer.

Marcus’ breath hitched. “Three stages? That wasn’t listed publicly.” He frowned. “I see. Only the final auction sells the true piece.”

He listened again, nodding slowly. “My client wants the fragment. You and I both know what it’s worth.”

His pacing resumed. “Submit my name. I’ll send the bid and the buyer details.”

Another pause.

A murmured response.

Marcus’ voice dropped to a near whisper. “Yes. Dimitri’s name. That should clear any doubts.”

He grimaced at the reply but didn’t argue.

“Understood. I’ll send everything now. Expect the bid in the next five minutes.”

He ended the call and lowered the phone, but he didn’t look at us right away. He exhaled, a mixture of frustration and focus flickering across his features.

“Well?” Isra asked, voice thin.

Marcus turned. “I have the details.”

We gathered around him. Con moved with me, as if we were one.

“The auction has three stages,” Marcus explained. “Two are decoys. The real fragment only appears in the final stage, reserved for verified buyers and high-level collectors.”

“Meaning criminals,” I said.

Marcus didn’t object. “Meaning the kind of people Dimitri used to run with.”

Raven’s expression thinned.

Marcus continued, “They will not allow entry without vetting. I have to supply your information, Cass, and an initial bid to confirm interest.”

“Do it,” I said.

Marcus held my gaze, as if making sure I knew what I was agreeing to. “Once I send this, you’re in their system. They’ll expect you to show up, identify yourself, and pay if you win.”

“Good,” I said. “Send it.”

He nodded and began typing.