My blood runs cold.
I have no doubt that someone thought they could take advantage of my father’s failing mind.
“Take me to the shipping office,” I tell my driver. Then into the phone I ask, "Who has access to those accounts?"
“Well… myself.” No wonder he’s nervous. “Davidson and Pascale.”
"Have you told anyone else?"
"No, sir. Came straight to you."
"Good. Keep it that way. I’m on my way. Make sure Davidson and Pascale are there, but don’t tell them I’m coming. Got it?"
“Yes sir.”
I end the call and sit motionless for a moment.
A quarter of a million is nothing to our operation, but isn’t that how skimming works?
Take a little here and there.
Not enough that anyone notices.
I dial Gabriella next.
My sister needs to know.
Unlike most Mafia princesses, my sister was allowed to pursue her interests and has a place in the business.
She’s got a law degree and did a great deal to keep my father’s business running over the last year.
“Uncle Luca.”
I hear noises in the background suggesting she’s doing something with baby Sabina.
“Just wanted to let you know that I’m on the way to the shipping office. Vince has found some accounting errors.”
She inhales sharply. "Who?"
"Not sure yet. He says Davidson and Pascale also have access to the records. Do you have thoughts?”
She thinks for a moment. “Pascale enjoys gambling and women, but I don’t have anything specific to suggest it’s him.”
“What about Vince and Davidson?”
“Vince has a couple of kids in college, but I just don’t see him stealing from us. To be honest, I don’t think he has the guts.”
The fear in his voice when he called me has me agreeing, unless it’s all for show.
“Davidson is newer. Don’t know him very well. No red flags that I can think of.”
“Okay, thanks. I’ll be in touch. Are you with Dad today?”
“Marco is taking him to the casino today. He told Dad he wanted his advice on some part of the business.”
My father would hate being patronized like that, and yet, it’s an act of kindness that Marco finds ways to help my father feel relevant and respected as a Don.
I arrive at the shipping warehouse.
