“Well, that just adds a whole new level of stress and bullshit.”
“Don’t worry about it,” he says gently. “Everything will be fine.”
But I am worried. I’m terrified something is going to go wrong.
TWENTY-THREE
MATEO
I hate long-distance flights, even if Gino did splurge on first class. This trip is already a mess, from the sudden change of plans to dealing with more of the Russos’ bullshit. That elusive family in Italy keeps throwing it our way. The entire time I was sitting in the airport and walking through the terminal, all I could think about is how much I wish Vanessa was with me. Not because I want her anywhere near this mess, but because I just want her with me.
She’s completely changed me over the last few months. I used to avoid getting close to anyone outside of the group, never wanting to commit, but with her I’d do anything to stay by her side. That’s why I’m here now, to protect her and make sure she never gets dragged into this world. The nearly nine-hour flight is spent going over every detail of the contract and all the deals Antonio made with these people.
They really thought we wouldn’t notice they were giving us less product for more money. They even added clauses about who handles pickup and who negotiates, trying to box us in.They planned for almost everything except one thing: we don’t walk away from our word. They think we’ll scrap this, but we won’t.
When I land in Rome, a heavy sense of unease settles over me. I keep replaying what Vanessa said about not having a good feeling, and I don’t either. Whatever happens here, I need to make sure she’s safe with Gino.
Me
Just got to the hotel. Is she at your place?
Gino
Yup. And she’s still pissed, thinks we don’t trust her on her own.
Before I can reply, Vanessa’s name lights up my phone.
“Hey,” I answer.
“Hey, did you get there okay?” she asks sweetly. I wish I could see her right now.
“Yeah. I’m good. Hopefully this only takes a few days, and I’ll be home before you know it.”
“Good. I hate having to stay with Gino through all of this.”
“I know, but it’s safer this way.”
She sighs. “I know. That’s why I’m scared. I don’t want anyone worrying about me while you’re over there dealing with those assholes.”
“Mrs. Romano, did you just swear?”
“Maybe,” she says with a small laugh.
“When I get home, you’re going to need to be punished for that.”
“What kind of punishment?”
“I’ve got a lot of ideas.”
“Enlighten me, please.”
I groan softly. “Please tell me you’re alone.”
“Yup. I’m in one of the guest rooms.”
“Good. You have no idea how much I miss you, or how much I want you with me right now.”
“Well, what are you going to do about it?”
