Page 74 of Capo

“I… was an accountant,” I say, hearing how stupid it sounds.

Alessandra frowns and I explain about the community center for autistic children.

“Sounds like you loved it.”

“I did,” I say and look out the window, averting my gaze. The one who ruined it all is her relative. I have to remember where I am.

“Maybe you want to come with? I’d be happy to have someone with me. You can help with English!”

I perk up. “Can I? I’d love that!”

That night we have dinner with one of the families in the village. There are women of all ages, children, and older men. I don’t see any men between their twenties and sixties. I’m about to ask Alessandra about this mystery when someone calls my name and holds out a cell phone.

“It’s for you,” says Alessandra.

My heart shoots up to my throat. There can be only one. I sneak into the living room and close the door.

“Chloe,” I say on an exhale.

“How are you finding your new accommodations?” says a smooth, well-modulated, very well-known voice. It’s almost a relief to hear him. At least it’s something familiar.

“It’s… different.”

“Are you being a good girl?”

I swallow as heat shoots through me. I don’t even think he means it that way, but his deep baritone makes it sound so erotic that I squirm. “Was I ever anything else?”

Salvatore laughs. “I can think of a number of occasions.”

“Hardly my fault,” I mutter. “Why am I here?”

“Would you rather be with me? That’s a nice change of tune.”

“That’s not what I said.” Also, I don’t even know what I mean myself.

“That’s what I hear.”

I roll my eyes. “You didn’t answer my question.”

“So cocky now that I can’t spank you.”

“Beat me, you mean.”

“Or ravage your pussy until you scream.”

I gasp and clench my thighs, stifling a moan that threatens to escape.

“So tell me, Chloe. Are you still bored?”

I scoff.

He gives out a short laugh. We both know the answer to that. I’m definitely not bored today.

Salvatore clears his throat. “On a more serious note. You’re with relatives of mine. You’re to treat them with the utmost respect at all times.”

“Did you come from here?”

“Ah, no. I was born in Chicago. My parents came from the village. These people are brothers, sisters, cousins, you name it, of my parents.”