A tiny bit of the tension drained off, but not enough to keep him from itching in the seat. Unsure of where this was going because he definitely felt abutcoming.
“Inside these walls is much different than when you step outside of them, though.” Aster’s father swished a hand around the room. “Here, there are fewer mistakes to be made. Fewer temptations to lead you astray. Fewer questions of loyalty.”
Logan’s chest squeezed.
What was he implying?
Did he know?
He clung to the arms of the chair while sweat gathered at his nape.
Andres Costa eyed him carefully. “And I think it is time we give you the chance to prove that, Mr. Lawson. Your loyalty to me and this family. My brother, Antonio, is to receive a shipment tonight of a treasured family heirloom. I wish you to accompany Jarek to my brother’s warehouse to ensure its safe passage here. You will be rewarded handsomely, of course, but more importantly, you’ll secure a spot for yourself in this family if you want it.”
Pride welled up, a feeling like he’d found his path, what he was purposed to do.
His mind spiraled with a thousand thoughts. Every one of them at odds.
Trent’s choice to leave this city. Aster begging him to take her away.
Logan’s pulse thundered.
But was that what she really wanted? To be separated from her father forever? From her sister? From all that she knew? And if they left, he could never provide for them the way that he could here.
This was his chance—his chance to earn Aster’s father’s trust. To earn a place in their family. To show him Aster would be better off with him than with Jarek.
And she deserved the world. Every fucking treasure. A giant house and a big backyard. She didn’t deserve to be running and hiding in the shadows for the rest of their lives, terrified of what might be waiting for them around the corner.
He didn’t love that he’d be doing it alongside Jarek. That asshole couldn’t be trusted. But maybe it was the exact opportunity he needed in order to show Aster’s father that Jarek needed to go.
Logan wanted it.
He wanted it.
And this was his one chance.
He had to take it.
“I’d be honored, Sir.”
“Good. I have hundreds of men at my disposal, and I chose you to accompany Jarek. This is a mission of the utmost importance. The heirloom is priceless, but more so, it is a personal treasure to me. Its transport is very sensitive, and only the three of you will know its details. Do I have your loyalty and your word, Mr. Lawson?”
“Yes, Mr. Costa. You have both.”
Unease trembled in his guts. Trent would be furious, but this was the best way for Aster. For their child. For him.
It would allow them both to maintain connections with their families, but more so, it ensured their safety.
Their comfort.
A good life.
He excused himself and rushed down the hall, newfound purpose pushing his steps forward. He nearly tripped when the hand flew out from a doorway and jerked him to a stop.
“Aster,” he breathed, slipping into the room where she was concealed. “What are you doing?”
“Hiding.” She let go of a small smile, but it was filled with worry.
He took her precious face in his hands. “And soon we won’t have to hide any longer. I just spoke with your father, and he’s asked me to retrieve a shipment tonight. He said he chose me over a hundred other men.”