He’s right. The three of us would have barbecues and watch whatever game was on TV.
“I’ll make some time next Saturday,” I say.
Adriano locks eyes with me. “How’s married life treating you?”
“Good.” I can’t keep myself from grinning. “Very good.”
Ohhhh.” Georgi’s eyebrow lifts. “Are you and the Yakuza princess–”
“Don’t you dare finish that question,” I warn him before I admit, “We haven’t consummated the marriage yet.”
Surprise flits over their faces as Adriano asks, “Why not?”
“I’m waiting until Yuki’s ready.”
“You know it’s not a marriage until you do the deed,” Georgi gives his two cents.
I playfully slap him upside the head. “What do you know about marriage? All you do is fuck your way through half of New York. You’ve never even had a relationship with a woman.”
“You know my motto.” He takes a sip of his drink. “One and done.” Letting out a sigh, he says, “Besides, I’m too busy. The Bulgarians are selling arms in my territory.”
“You’re going toe to toe with Atanas Petkova?” I give him a worried look. “Need backup?”
Georgi tips his head at Adriano. “He’s helping out. You have your hands full with the Yakuza. I swear, if the head of the Bulgarian mafia had a sister, I’d marry her for business. Petkova knows what he’s doing and could be a good ally to have.”
“Last I heard, Petkova is single,” Adriano mentions. “And you have a sister.”
“I’m not handing Raya over to that man,” Georgi growls, his temper slipping. He downs his drink and visibly calms down before he adds, “I’ll broker a deal with Petkova. His business will be good for the Cosa Nostra.”
“Definitely,” I agree.
“Hey, are the three of you going to stand there the whole night or come play poker?” Uncle Renzo, Georgi’s Dad, calls out.
I top up my tumbler before I head back to my seat, and soon we’re all talking about business and the family while getting our asses handed to us by Uncle Dario.
Chapter 21
Yuki
Thirty minutes ago, Augusto sent me a text, telling me to dress nice because we’re going out. I have no idea if we’re going to a function or visiting friends and family.
Glancing through all my clothes, I can’t decide on an outfit, and giving up, I send him a text.
Yuki: Where are we going?
I look at the few dresses I have and feel they might be too formal.
When my phone vibrates in my hand, I quickly unlock the device and check my messages.
Augusto: I’m taking you on a date.
Oh wow.
A smile creeps over my face, and there’s a burst of excitement in my chest. I’ve been cooped up in the house for the past three weeks because Augusto can’t find out who was behind the attack.
Not that I mind. I’ve been getting back into making pottery and have even tried my hand at Ikebana. It’s a traditional art form where you arrange flowers, branches, and other natural materials. I’ve seen videos on social media and thought it might be fun.
Glancing through my closet again, I decide to wear a cream dress, and rushing into the bathroom, I hold it up in front of me while looking at my reflection in the mirror. The skirt fans out and reaches to beneath my knees. It will look pretty with a pair of kitten heel pumps and a black belt.
