Chapter 33

Ivan

9:20 PM

Ivan started humming and moved forward. He raised his fist and closed his eyes. There was no going against Gregory. That scarred bastard's fist was around his heart even now. A glow surrounded Ivan's right hand, releasing a musk scent as he built up his energy. He needed to control the output, put Petor to sleep, or Gregory would get angry.

Maybe he should just end Petor here?

No, that would leave the woman in Gregory's hands.

He glanced at the detective and gave a mental sigh. The man was still breathing. After all the effort Ivan had gone through to make sure the impact wouldn't kill him, he was going to die. Nothing he ever did worked out. Even sacrificing himself for Petor and Vlad failed. Vlad went crazy. Petor was unable to save him. Gregory was too powerful.

As Ivan's humming grew stronger, the stringent order infused the room. A bit more would destroy the computer. I will be punished, but Gregory doesn't need any more power.

Cackling energy filled the room along with the smell of burnt flesh, overpowering the musk.

"Ivan, you know he's wrong!" Bobby yelled over his typing. "Don't do this!"

"He can't answer you, Petor. You know what he is. What he gave up for you. Why are you even trying?" asked Gregory, shaking his head. He picked up Ming and took her to the side of the room. She was struggling and holding her chest. Ivan's slap probably broke some ribs.

"Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! He was my friend once. I can't let you do this to him!" Bobby wasn't going to finish in time.

It's too late, Petor.

Ivan reached Bobby and bent down for his computer.

BLAM!

The gunshot echoed in the penthouse. There was a pinprick in his neck, just above his right side. Ivan turned back to the pile of rubble. Dean was sitting up and holding a gun. His face was a rictus of pain. "Guess I had one bullet left. Old habit. Was saving it for the ex." He grinned and slumped down.