"Of course." I gesture for coffee to be brought. "I believe we have matters to discuss."
"We do." Cassio accepts the espresso, takes a sip. "Your shipments have been coming through our routes."
"With the appropriate fees paid."
"The fees have increased,” he says.
"That wasn't our agreement," I say.
"Circumstances have changed." Cassio sets down his cup. "The port authority has been asking questions. We've had to pay more to keep them quiet. Those costs get passed on."
"How much more?"
"Twenty percent."
It's outrageous. He knows it. I know it. This is a test.
"Ten percent," I counter. "And only on the routes through Genoa. The rest stays at current rates."
"Fifteen percent. All routes."
Did my phone buzz? Focus. "Twelve. Genoa only."
Cassio studies me. Behind him, Tullio shifts slightly. His hand moves toward his jacket.
Bruno tenses beside me. Tommy, standing by the door, straightens. The room goes very quiet.
"Twelve percent then," Cassio says finally. "Genoa only." Tullio's hand drops.
"Pleasure doing business with you." I stand, extend my hand. Cassio shakes it.
The moment they leave, I grab my phone.
Nothing. No message.
"You okay, boss?" Bruno asks.
"Fine." I pocket the phone. "Make sure the accountant updates the contracts. I want everything documented."
"Already on it." Bruno studies me. "You seemed distracted in there."
I glare at him. He shuts up.
"What's next?" I ask.
"The docks. There's an issue with one of the shipments."
We drive to the port in Bruno's car. Tommy and Paulie follow in another. During the drive, I check my phone again. Still nothing from Liana. Maybe she's sleeping in. Or regretting last night.
I send another text.
Me: About last night. We should talk.
No response.
At the docks, our contact Roberto meets us near Warehouse Seven. He looks nervous. Never a good sign.
"What's the problem?" I ask.
