Her eyes soften as she places a hand on my cheek. “I just want to make sure you’re okay.”
I offer an insincere smile because, at the very least, I can pretend for a moment that I’m okay, if that will bring her comfort.
7
DANTE
“Why are you smiling like a fucking psycho?” Luca asks as he side-eyes me from the passenger seat.
I lift a shoulder as I reply, “I’m excited for business, that’s all.”
“Hmmm.” Luca doesn’t bother to delve further into my antics.
“Want to explain to me where we’re going?” I ask.
He’s given me an address and told me he’s conducting business, and I’m to remain by his side. In the rearview mirror, I spot the two hounds who trail us on their motorcycles. I’m confident in my skills in protecting Luca; however, having two of the hounds on standby is never a bad idea.
Luca readjusts the cuff of his sleeve. “I have reason to believe one of my business associates isn’t so faithful, and as you’re aware, there’s still a leak. We had issues some time ago with the Russian Bratva getting cocky and encroaching on my turf here in Manhattan. Although it was dealt with, I’m certain a few rats remain, and I want them snuffed out entirely.”
It’s not the first time I’ve heard of the Bratva interference, both in New York and Italy. I wonder if Luca’s personalconnection with Dmitri Volkov was the reason why they grew so bold, or if they’re just truly idiotic enough to try to instigate a war with the Italian mafia. It’ll be messy and brutal, but no doubt Luca Armani will win. They have no power in these areas, but I imagine Luca wants the threat erased before it can grow into an issue, especially right before Ara gives birth.
“Does this have to do with the incident involving Dmitri Volkov killing The Lion?” I ask, although I’m almost certain of the answer.
“Yes,” he replies. And it makes sense as to why he wants to weed out any others who might follow in The Lion's footsteps. “Dmitri Volkov was the legitimate son of The Lion, who was a high-ranking member of the Russian Bratva. Dmitri had long been cast out by his father, and he swore allegiance to us, had a bloody fight to the death, and came out on top.”
Much like Luca, Dmitri lives here in Manhattan and is part of the upper crust of society. I wonder if everyone saw the real version of those people, if they’d so willingly try to befriend the dangerous billionaires.
“The Bratva don’t have power or influence in Manhattan, but it doesn’t mean there aren’t a few remaining roaches,” Luca says with absolute disdain.
I’m certain Luca’s been moving pieces from the moment he decided to assist Dmitri Volkov in the shadows. After all, he’s not known to be merciful; he only ever does things if something is to be gained from them.
I glance at my boss, always impressed by his methodical nature.
“Is this also connected with the last job you had me do in Italy?”
“Yes,” Luca says.
I don’t ask any more questions, because I’m almost certain I know where Luca’s mind is leading. Kick the hornets' nest to get a reaction, draw them out, and set fire to the whole problem.
He’s used me as bait to draw the attention of those remaining who might fight in the name of The Lion.
I try not to smirk, giddy for what trouble it might bring.
"Do this job for me, and I’ll give you your brother's job."That was the offer Luca made me when he called months ago."Or you have the option to be freed of your service to the Armani family to complete your residency and live a normal life."
Normal.The word leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
I’m certain Luca intentionally used my strained relationship with Lorenzo to motivate me, and I’m not even upset, the manipulation impressed me. It’s the easiest way to motivate an individual.
“I’ll only ask a few questions,” Luca says, as if bored. “If I don’t like the answers, I want you to cut him open and then stitch him back up, time and time again, until he gives me the right answer."
I grin, confident in my recent career change.
I really like it here.
When I openthe apartment door at four in the morning, I’m greeted by Borris wagging his short little tail. I pick him up, freezing when I see Romi lying on the floor, until I see her chest rise and fall. She’s high, staring up at the ceiling. I follow her gaze, wondering if I’m missing anything particularly exciting.
No, just her being a beautiful mess. Her black hair sprawled beneath her, wearing tiny fuck-me shorts and a shirt that stops at her midriff.
