Page 75 of Finn

“When is Niall back?” she asked in the elevator.

“Soon.”

“You said Roman is sending you some men?”

“Yes. That will help. I can add men to patrol and watch.” I swiped my pass.

“Do you think there’s a reason they’re hitting only in the one area?”

I paused, turning to look at her. “I never gave that any thought.” I put my hand on the small of her back, urging her forward. I thought about what she had asked. “You’re right,” I muttered.

“It’s where I lived when I came here. I cut my teeth in that area. I know it the best. They know me.”

She frowned. “Whoever it is, they’re making it personal.”

“Not many would know all that. Unless they knew my history.” I ran a hand through my hair. “Someone in my own crew.”

She looked troubled, then spoke. “Or was in your crew and knew your history because their father spoke of it often. With pride. How you rose in the ranks. The way people, especially in that neighborhood, looked up to you. Regarded you as a hero, not a criminal, because you made sure they were safe.”

I nodded slowly. “And by attacking it, they make me look incompetent and careless.”

“Someone like Brian.”

I huffed out a laugh. “Sorry, my girl, but I don’t think your brother is smart enough to plan and execute such an in-depth plan.”

“Unless he had help. He has the knowledge. Someone else has the men and the money.” She gripped my arm. “Someone with enough money to pay you back, so Brian isn’t beholden to you—but rather, to them. He’s become their soldier.”

I stared at her. “You are brilliant.”

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

FINN

“But who?” Roman asked, rubbing his chin. I had tucked Una into bed and set up a private video call. Niall joined us.

“Someone who wants to take over. These rogue gangs aren’t that rogue. And it wasn’t Brian in the photo, but I think you were right. He’s part of this.”

“You’ve put out the word?” Niall asked.

I knew what he was asking. Brian Murphy now had a price on his head. “Yes.”

“No more leniency?”

“None.”

“I’ll get some inquiries out there,” Roman offered. “Discreetly, of course. Luca will reach out too.”

“I need him alive to find out who is behind this and why. I’ve spent years building bridges, peace.” I scrubbed my face in anger. “Why?”

“Some people don’t want peace. They thrive on conflict. They believe in taking what they want and will do whatever they need to in order to get that. Can you think of anyone you’ve been at odds with?”

“Lopez?” Niall questioned.

I snorted. “Hardly at odds. I paid him his money, so he didn’t continue to make his ridiculous interest. Hardly a reason to go after me.”

Roman looked thoughtful. “He’s an unknown. Worth checking into. You said yourself he was a cold bastard. Maybe he takes things to the extreme.” He rubbed his chin. “Let me handle that part. I have an incredible hacker. The dark web is his specialty.”

“Fine.”