“I appreciate it. Despite what you might’ve heard, I run these businesses legitimately and you’re welcome to see my books or any video recordings you need.” I gestured toward Katia. “She’s my manager, and will comply with all requests.”
“Thank you, Mr. Caruso. We’ll work as quickly as possible.”
They sat down to interview the bouncers, and I pulled Katia aside.
“Give them anything they need. I want this club open again as soon as possible.”
“Of course.” Concern shone in her green eyes. “Is Bianca doing okay? This is all a fucking mess.”
“She’s fine, and yes, it is. This is lighting a fire under my ass to finish my takeover and get on with my damn life.”
“John has publicly stated he’s coming for you and anyone who supports you, Michael,” she said, shivering. “Are we safe?”
“Damien has been escorting you home, right?”
She nodded.
“Keep him by your side at all times. I’m sorry it’s come to this, but I’m going to fix it.”
Grinning, she tilted her head. “It’s amazing. You’re not blaming Bianca at all. It hasn’t even crossed your mind that a tiny bit of this could be her fault.”
“It’s not her fault,” I said, bristling at the notion. “She wanted to get me a goddamned birthday present and shot a man who was trying to kidnap her. I’m proud of her for protecting herself.”
“You’re so in love with her,” Katia said wistfully. “It looks good on you, Michael. I’m proud of you for not blaming her. It’s a shitty situation all around.”
“Not for long.” Pivoting, I said over my shoulder. “Don’t go anywhere without Damien and keep me updated.”
When I returned home, I found Bianca in the gym, walking on the treadmill as Kenisha stood beside her, urging her on.
“Michael!” she said, joy evident in her stunning face as she waved at me. The lingering fear that I’d felt when I’d heard of her accident clenched in my chest, and I reveled in her smile. I’d almost lost her for the second time in my life. Whatever happened in my business was insignificant compared to seeing her wide smile as she maneuvered atop the treadmill.
“I did two miles today!”
I strode over and glanced at the treadmill screen. “It says one point nine miles. Are you cheating, stella?”
She swatted my shoulder. “I’m in pain, but I pushed, and I’m counting it as two miles.”
“Come and sit with your husband while I have a drink,” I said, loosening my tie. “Thank you, Kenisha. Enzo can drive you home now.”
“You’re welcome. Good job, Bianca. We’ll do two point five miles tomorrow.”
After she left, I helped Bianca down from the treadmill and led her into the living room. I poured some whiskey and sat beside her on the soft couch, drawing her into my side. She snuggled into me as we talked about our days, and I pushed aside all thoughts of turf wars and complications, if only for a few moments.
Bianca was alive and she was healing, and that was all I needed.
Chapter 27
Bianca
After three weeks, I was feeling much better. I’d always been a fast healer and was determined to regain my strength so I could support Michael as he completed the arduous task of eradicating Victor’s business once and for all.
I’d been working with Kenisha, who was an absolute saint with her patience and encouragement, and Dr. Zappa had been visiting for checkups every few days. Michael had briefly informed me that the other two physicians would no longer be stopping by, and I wondered if they’d been threatened. Regardless, I was thankful that Adrian was brave enough to help monitor my recovery.
When Kenisha left for the day, I showered and headed downstairs to help Carmen and Leticia prepare dinner. Burns stood in the foyer, holding a bouquet of white flowers in his hands.
“Where did those come from?” I asked.
“They were left outside the front gate.”
