“Sicily?”
Another scowl.
“Yes, the desired location for your engagement with Sir Bennici. I’m Alfonso and will be at your service for the rest of your stay.”
A laugh slips at his bow. It turns over like a car engine until I’m doubled over, hands on my knees, hollering at this man in a linen suit.
Surely, I’ve entered the Land of Oz that requires feed-in braids and red bottoms to click three times to go home. Because I know,in this year of our Lord, a bowing butler in a fake manor acting like I wasn’t snatched and drugged to speak withSir Benniciisn’t real life.
Are there knights and baronets in Sicily, or are they snorting their delusions with high tea? I betSir Bennicihas an undiagnosed Napoleon complex too.
I scratch the lining of my bonnet, slicked with water, sweat, and frustration. “Alfred.”
“Alfonso.”
“I was taken from my apartment, drugged, and put into a stranger’s bed.” I motion toward the fancy black lair they’d tossed me in. “I have rights!”
What those rights are in Italy, I don’t know. This has to violate the Geneva Conventions.
If Mama Vee hadn’t taught me to respect my elders, I’d knock Alfred out of his shoes. He’s too calm and looks at me likeI’mthe one with the comprehension issue.
“I apologize for any discomfort prior to your arrival.” Minimal concern laces Alfred’s tone. “Sir Bennici is aware and will add ten thousand euros to your fee.”
Say what now?
Thick brows drizzled in gray knit at my baffled gaze as I struggle to reboot. “You’ll receive the agreed-upon rate, thirty thousand euros for the weekend. Plus an extra ten for any grievances. All expenses and your flight are covered, regardless of the duration of your stay.”
I lift a hand and shake my bonnet. “Wait, wait, wait. Your boss”—I point to Alfred—“sent for me”—I point to myself—”and will pay forty thousand euros for me to spend the weekend, plus an additional forty for my pain and suffering?”
“Correct. You’re a day early, but if you and Sir Bennici determine your pairing is agreeable after tonight, the stay will extend.”
“And if it’s not agreeable?” I ask.
“You amicably part ways,” he mentions with a dignified eye roll.
“Sex. You’re talking about sex.” Pussy must be implied, because who snatches someone just for conversation?
Wait.
“Are you looking for Diana Peretti by any chance? A woman who lives in Naples?”
It would explain why Bane wanted to tase me or why I’d gotten drugged. Maybe the apartment owner is into some freaky shit.
“Ms. Bianca, I keep Sir Bennici’s schedule, not a report on his proclivities. I’m unaware of a Diana Peretti. You are on my schedule.”
I blink, my eyes stuck on stupid. “Me, Bianca?”
“Is there another Bianca here asking questions she should know the answers to?” Oop! “Dinner will be ready in ten. I’ll have the kitchen staff bring your plate as you might want to”—he grimaces at my pajamas—“freshen up. Your personal facility is down the hall. May I assist you with anything else?”
An idea forms that starts with playing along and ends with my freedom.
“Actually, Alfred.”
“Alfonso,” he seethes.
“I’d like an upfront deposit in cash.” I clear my throat and keep my face neutral. “Part of my business practice.”
If Alfonso thinks I’m full of shit, he doesn’t show it. He considers me but doesn’t argue at my smile. Nothing in my body language gives away my plans to take the money and my Black ass far away from this delusional manor.
