Page 61 of Roman

I glared at him, taking some satisfaction from the bruise on his lower cheek. He hadn’t shaved, so it blended with his scruff, but I saw it. “How’s your face?” I asked dryly. “You want a matched set?”

He chuckled, setting down his cup. “If you do, Vi will be in here, and I will not be able to stop her using those stilettos she loves on sensitive parts of your body. I had to stop her from coming in here this morning and stomping on your foot. Another mark on me and I cannot guarantee your safety, boss.”

I didn’t hide my grin. Vi would have zero issue going after me. It was one of the things I adored about her. She was fearless, and her love for Aldo made her protective—and dangerous.

“I’ll hold myself back.”

He grunted. “Is Effie all right?” he asked.

“She is well,” I replied, picking up a file folder.

“How well?”

“She is fine. She wants to go check on her diner, and I agreed to take her at two.”

“I see. With extra men, I hope?”

I looked up. “Has there been movement?”

He nodded. “Someone was at the house. No doubt the bodies have been discovered.”

“Took them long enough. They are always sloppy. I hate those fuckers.”

“I am aware of that.”

My phone rang again, and I rolled my eyes as I picked it up. “Luca.”

“What the hell am I hearing from Nonna about you bringing a woman to Sunday lunch?”

“Hello to you too, brother.”

“Don’t play games with me, Roman.”

I sighed, deciding to keep my story the same. “I met someone. I think Nonna will like her. I’m bringing her to lunch.” I paused. “Are you joining us?”

“No, dammit. We’re going to see Justine’s parents in Ottawa. If I’d had some notice…” he grumbled. “You didn’t mention a word of this at dinner.”

“It happened quickly.”

“What the hell is going on?”

With a sigh, I put him on speaker and told him everything. Our lines were secure, and so was the office. When I finished, he was silent. Finally, he spoke.

“This is a dangerous game.”

“It isn’t a game. Her life was in jeopardy because of me. I am simply paying a debt.”

Aldo snorted, and Luca spoke directly to him.

“Is that a bunch of BS, Aldo?”

“I am neutral, Luca,” he said. “Roman and I rarely discuss our personal lives. The girl is lovely, though. You’d have to be dead not to notice that. Your brother seems particularly, ah…” He paused. “Protective.”

“Insane, you mean. Taking her to Nonna.”

“Fucking Aldo’s fault. He thought he’d be funny and throw me under the bus.”

“You must be going soft, Roman. He’s still alive.”