Ruthless Creatures by J.T. Geissinger

warehouse, headed back to their families and territories,
spread out all across the US.
Except one that I keep aside.
Mikhail is the youngest member of the Bratva leadership,
and also one of the most aggressive and ambitious. He was the
underboss for Boston’s family leader, but was promoted last
year when his boss was assassinated.
Resting a hand on Mikhail’s shoulder, I say, “I’d like your
help.”
I see the surprise in his eyes. It’s quickly followed by
pride.
“Thank you. Anything.”
“I discovered an unsanctioned online gaming operation
based in Lake Tahoe. They’re one of ours, but haven’t been
tithing.”
“What do you need me to do?”
I wave Stavros forward from where he’s been standing,
waiting, near the door. He comes hesitantly, wringing his
hands.
“Get an accounting of total revenue going as far back as
they’ve been operational. They owe half to Maxim. Have them
send it to me no later than Monday next week. Then put them
on a monthly schedule of twenty percent going forward.”
“And if they can’t come up with the money?”
I hesitate. This would be so much easier if Stavros wasn’t
involved with Natalie’s friend.
If that were the case and he couldn’t produce the money,
I’d cut off one of his fingers and toes for each day of delay
until he did.
And if it went past ten days, I’d start cutting off other stuff.
“Don’t worry about that now. Just make sure he
understands what the consequences will be if he fucks up
again.”