Teddy started laughing.
The bartender set the flutes on the bar and Carrera passed out the drinks.
Luciano raised his glass. “Santini.”
“Love you, brothers,” Carrera said to his cousins.
To Carrera’s surprise, Jazz didn’t badger G-ma for money all afternoon. She didn’t even bring up her financial woes. It was a relief that the family could spend an afternoon together withoutsome argument breaking out. When there were this many strong-willed Santinis in a confined space, it was inevitable.
But the sun was shining and the weather was perfect. Nothing but clear sailing. After a sit-down lunch, everyone chilled. A few inside, most out.
While Carrera was talking with Gabriel on the back stern, his cousin’s phone rang. “Excuse me,” Gabriel said before stepping away to answer.
The sliding door opened and Russell stepped outside. “How’ve you been?”
“There’s the future Congressman Fitzpatrick from the great state of Virginia,” Carrera said. “How’s the campaign going?”
“Fantastic. Being that it’s a special election, things move fast,” Russell explained. “I’ve been working non-stop, and I’ve got a great staff, along with energetic volunteers.Theywant me to win more thanIwant me to win.” He puffed out his chest and laughed.
“Good for you,” Carrera replied. “So, you and Jazz, huh?”
“She’s great.” Russell finished the wine spritzer.
“Has she hit you up for money yet?” Carrera asked.
“She’s been spending a lot of time at my campaign headquarters. She’s a big help and a hard worker.”
That didn’t sound like the Jazz Carrera knew.
“So, are you seeing anyone?” Russell asked.
Slash crashed into his thoughts.
Russell chuffed out a laugh. “The Magic 8 Ball points todefinitely.”
“I haven’t said anything,” Carrera said.
“You don’t have to. I’ve known you since we were six.” He shrugged. “I can just tell.”
Carrera shook his head. “There’s no one.”
“Maybe you can squeeze in a little campaigning for me. You know, ring doorbells, chat it up with the good folks in your district.”
Carrera was starting a new position at the Bureau tomorrow, plus he was still working the cases with Slash.
“Sorry, Russell. I’m short on time.”
Russell stood. “No problem.”
When the yacht docked back at the marina, the fam thanked him for a great afternoon, said their goodbyes, and took off.
Last to exit, Luciano extended his hand. “Today was good. No family drama.”
“It’s a first,” Carrera replied.
“Speaking of firsts,” Luciano murmured, “Tomorrow’s a big day for you.”
“First day of my new job.”
