Chapter 16

CHAPTER 16

DANTE

I step out of the sleek black SUV, straightening the cuffs of my tailored suit jacket as a cool night breeze ruffles my hair. The neon lights of the strip club flicker garishly, illuminating the name "Heat" in bold pink cursive.

Silas, Sam and Hector flank me as we approach the discreet side entrance, our polished shoes clicking rhythmically against the pavement. The heavy bass reverberates through the walls, a pulsing heartbeat that seems to match the anticipation thrumming in my veins.

Just moments ago, Sarah's voice echoed through the phone, her words laced with urgency. "Rosa's been moved to the new location. Be careful, Dante. I'm flying out, but I won't make it in time for the auction."

Sarah took us all by surprise. She's a good friend to Bella. The kind of friend she needs. Sarah's an alpha without a pack of her own, so she's a free agent. Despite the fact that she hates me and my brothers for what our fathers did to her family, I have a feeling she's going to come around.

Bella drove separately, under the watchful eyes of her fathers. Silas had come downstairs to meet us, smelling like her sweet pussy, and a surge of envy shot through me. I just hope she washed his scent off before meeting with her fathers again, or else this whole thing might just blow up in our faces. The perfume we'd given her can only mask her true mated scent for so long before someone notices.

Im dreading tonight, remembering the photos Hector and Silas showed me from their exploratory trip to the other omega club back in Oregon. That pace was fucking filthy and depraved, and I'd seen a lot of fucked up shit in my life.

I already know Bella's sister is inside this building too. It's not a coincidence. The De Luca alphas are just fucked up enough in the head to pull a stunt like this, knowing it'll send Bella into an emotional spiral.

As we step through the door, the pulsing beat of the music envelops us, the heavy base vibrating through my chest. The interior is dimly lit, with pulsing neon lights illuminating the stage and bar area. Plush velvet couches line the perimeter, already occupied by groups of well-dressed alphas, their hungry eyes scanning the room like predators seeking prey.

The air is thick with the mingled scents of alcohol, perfume, and the unmistakable musk of alpha pheromones. It's intoxicating and repulsive all at once, a heady cocktail that sets my nerves on edge. I can feel the weight of their gazes on us as we move through the crowd, appraising and calculating.

Waitresses bring us drinks without us having to order them while several scantily clad omegas dance on the poles with alphas standing around the base of the stage, inspecting them. It's just like the video of Rosa. Their eyes are vacant, their cheeks gaunt and their skin lifeless. They're clearly drugged heavily, and just going through the motions.

We have to play the part tonight. We have to act like nothing about this situation is out of the ordinary.

As we settle into a private booth, the lights dim and a spotlight illuminates the main stage. Alessio, Marco and Liam De Luca stride out, their presence commanding the room's attention. They're all impeccably dressed in custom tailored suits that accentuate their powerful alpha physiques. Liam's silver-streaked hair gleams under the lights, while Alessio's cold eyes scan the crowd, his lips curled into a slight smirk. Marco stares ahead stoically.

"Welcome, esteemed guests," Alessio begins, his deep voice cutting through the music. "Tonight marks a special occasion as we unveil our newest acquisition, Heat. This establishment represents the pinnacle of luxury and indulgence, catering to the refined tastes of true alphas."

The crowd murmurs in approval, raising their glasses. Liam steps forward, his icy blue gaze sweeping over the room. "We have spared no expense in curating an unparalleled selection of omegas for your pleasure. Each one has been meticulously trained and conditioned to satisfy even the most discerning palates."

Alessio gestures to the stage where several omegas are displayed, their lithe forms barely covered by sheer, shimmering fabrics. "Behold, the crown jewels of our collection. These exquisite specimens are available for auction tonight, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to claim a truly exceptional prize."

The alphas lean forward in their seats, eyes gleaming with hunger and anticipation. Alessio's voice drops to a purr as he continues, "But before we begin the bidding, let us toast to the success of Heat and the limitless pleasures that await within these walls."

Liam raises his glass, a cruel smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "To the De Luca empire, may it continue to reign supreme. And to the alphas gathered here tonight, may you find the omega of your deepest, darkest desires."

The room erupts in applause and cheers, glasses clinking as the alphas toast to the De Luca alpha's words. The air is electric with a sense of savage excitement, the pheromones of the gathered alphas mingling into a potent, dizzying brew.

Alessio and Liam bask in the adulation, their postures radiating arrogance and power. They exchange a knowing glance, the unspoken communication of brothers who have orchestrated this twisted spectacle together.

My stomach rolls as women begin to flood the stage. These aren't the omegas on auction tonight, these are just the entertainment, and among them, is none other than Rosa De Luca herself.