Page 65 of Mafioso's Muse

The concierge hesitated before asking, ‘Do I need to call the police?’

‘No, you need to get me that footage. I’ll be down soon.’

The third phone call was to his father, who answered on the first ring.

‘Ciao?’

‘Pa.’ Vaughn came to a stop and rubbed his forehead. ‘I need your help.’

20

April 2024

Grey clouds moved across the city, blocking any evidence of sun. Vaughn watched them roll in as they drove to the Star, his hands fisted atop his thighs.

‘We’re five minutes away,’ Finn said, reading him perfectly.

Vaughn nodded. Despite knowing his brother was watching over Willow, his agitation grew with each passing second.

When the car finally reached the theatre, Vaughn opened the door before it had even come to a complete stop and was striding towards the building a moment later. He ignored the curious glances of people milling around the entrance and headed straight for the lift, pressing the button multiple times.

When he arrived on the first floor, he found Antonio outside one of the studios. He was leaning against the wall with his phone in his hand but straightened when he saw Vaughn.

‘She’s fine’ were the first words out of his mouth.

Vaughn stopped in front of the door and peered through the window, spotting her at the barre.

‘I spoke to Pa,’ Antonio said. ‘He told me it’s being handled.’

‘Not fast enough for my liking.’ Vaughn reached for the door.

Antonio grabbed his arm. ‘You can’t just walk in there.’

‘Of course I can.’ With that, Vaughn pushed the door open and entered. Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked in his direction.

‘Excuse me,’ Harrison said, scowling. ‘We’re in the middle of a class.’

Vaughn silenced him with a glance as he headed for Willow.

‘What are you doing?’ she asked in a hushed voice when he reached her.

‘We need to speak outside.’

She looked around, her cheeks turning red. ‘Can’t it wait?’

‘No.’

‘She’s a little busy right now.’ That was a disapproving Lili joining the conversation.

Harrison marched over. ‘Mr Gallo.’

Not willing to deal with him, Vaughn took Willow’s hand and led her towards the door.

‘Mr Gallo!’

Vaughn ignored Harrison and exited the studio with Willow. Antonio walked away to give them some privacy.

‘What’s going on?’ Willow asked, glancing at Harrison through the glass.