We have an annual meeting of the extended families. All the top-tier people in the Bratva and the Cosa Nostra come together. It’s eight people who gather for an entire weekend and we discuss logistics, numbers, and plan for the future.
He cocks his head, his eyes boring into mine as if wanting to uncover my deepest secrets. “Do you know why Dahlia decided against going on tour and moving to New York?”
I hold his gaze, firm in my position. “It’s her choice, and I will stand by her. What we want for her and what she wants for herself don’t align.”
He cocks his head. “Since you believe you know her better, what do you think she wants?”
I fell into his trap like a complete moron. I could kick my ass for my stupidity. But it’s just another sign that I want to rush to the part where I can make her mine.
I stare him down. “I know her better, Enzo. It’s just how it is.”
“You would have been a better brother to her.”
I drag a hand down my face. “Our relationship is more complex than that.”
He arches a brow, studying my face. “Relationship, huh?”
I glare at him. “Fuck you, asshole.”
He waves his hand through the air, eyeing me intently. “Tell me more about this complex relationship.”
He’s really trying to piss me off. I pin him with a death glare. “I love her.”
His eyes darken as he bends over the table. “How?”
Just then, my sister and Dahlia appear, and the hard stare Enzo sends my way would incinerate a lesser man.
She smiles at me furtively, but he’s more alert now, so he catches it, just as she instinctively comes to sit next to me.
He’s about to say something when Calla cuts him off. “Take the day off and let’s do something together, just the two of us. Please.”
I’ve never appreciated having a sister more than right now. But she’s well aware that the secret will blow up fast.
“What does my woman want to do?” he asks, enraptured by her.
We’ve made enough money to sustain ourselves for a few lifetimes because work gets secondary with each passing day.
As I watch Dahlia, I offer her my hand under the table, and she slips hers in mine.
Yeah, I have no doubt. She’s worth it.
“And here I thought you and Dahlia were up to something. Scheming, winning bets, shopping?” I give, contentment washing over me.
“Don’t give them ideas,” Enzo says, smiling at his wife and sister.
Calla grins brightly. “Both of you better behave because I’m still a better shot.”
I don’t even bother denying it. I lost $400K betting against her.
As Calla drags him toward the Lambo, she gives each of us an intent look.
She’s not pleased with the secrecy. And she’s not shy about showing it.
“That won’t work forever. Even though I’m grateful for her trying to help us,” Dahlia says, exhaling a deep sigh.
Wanting to ease her worries, I lean into her, kissing her neck. “Forget about that. What do you want to do?”
Her eyes spark as if the sun shines in them. “Go home.” She smiles, making my damn heart sing. “I want to swim, play, fuck, and kiss.”
