We drive most of the way home in heavy silence. When we pull into the driveway, we both freeze. Gino is standing on the front porch.
Mateo gets out first and heads toward him. I’m right behind him.
“Gino, you have a key,” Mateo says. “Why are you standing out here?”
“I’m not staying long,” Gino replies. “I’m guessing you told her?”
“Yeah.”
“Good. Then, Vanessa, while he’s gone, I think you should stay with me.”
“Why?” I ask.
“He won’t be here, and even though you’re close, you’re not close enough for my liking. I don’t want to have to put one of the guys here when it’s easier this way.”
“You sound just like Dad.”
“What the hell does that mean?”
“He always had to know where I was or who I was with.”
“That’s not what this is.”
“It sure feels like it.” I mumble.
“Look, I just need to know you’re safe.”
“I feel like there’s more to that.”
“There is,” he admits. “Dad did more damage than we realized. This deal is bullshit, and now I’m worried they might retaliate. Specifically against you.”
Mateo and I both stare at him.
“Why me?” I ask. “What did I do?”
“Nothing. But if they know who you are and that you’re married to him,” he says, pointing at Mateo, “they’ll use it. If they think we’re trying to screw them, they’ll come after one of you.”
“Great,” I mutter. “Have I mentioned how much I hate this whole mafia thing?”
“Once or twice,” Mateo says dryly.
Gino looks at me, his voice low. “Just promise you’ll stay with me while he’s gone.”
“Fine.”
“Be at my place at four this afternoon,” he adds, already heading back to his car.
Once he’s gone, we go inside. I head straight for the shower while Mateo starts packing. As the hot water hits my skin, thatuneasy feeling settles deep in my gut. Gino isn’t telling us everything.
When I walk back into the bedroom, Mateo is sitting on the edge of the bed, facing the bathroom. I step between his knees, lift his face in my hands, and kiss him softly.
“I feel like Gino isn’t telling us everything,” I say quietly.
“I don’t disagree,” he admits, “but I think he’s just nervous about me going alone.”
“Alone?” I frown. “I thought someone else would be with you.”
“No. They said only one person could meet with them, and it has to be me.”
