Page 22 of Bloodlust

A great leader rules not with an iron fist but with platinum ears. Use them, Camilla. You will hear your fate before you see it.

"The floor is yours," I say, attempting to embody my father.

"Judge Keegan," Moe begins. "The majority of us agree?—"

"That's a non-issue," Leo cuts him off. "As I mentioned earlier, he is no longer a threat."

"Simply because we now know of the man's demons does not mean he is not a threat," Moe counters. "From what I've heard, he is a man of integrity. He might value that more than his pride."

"He's married with children, Moe.” Leo sighs. "I highly doubt he'd risk making his wife a widow for the sake of justice." He cocks his head. "Move on."

"Fine," Moe grumbles under his breath, displeasedwith the brush off. "But we are in a delicate situation now, and we do not need any more eyes on us." He stares at me. "Can you stay out of trouble long enough for the deal to happen,bella? Or is that too much to ask?"

"I—" My fingertips burn as my pulse races.

"Remember who you are speaking with, Moe," Enzo cuts in. "She is Tony's daughter."

Moe scoffs. "Oh, I know."

Enzo faces me. "Camilla, his concerns are valid but his tact is—" he glares at Moe, "—adolescent."

"The deal will happen," I say, confused about Enzo's defense.

Whose side is he on? I can't tell.

"We need this, Camilla," Marco says, flipping through a stack of documents. "We got wind that The Dragons are back in town, and they're itching to expand."

"I'm not worried about the Triad," I say. "They've been inactive for years now. They have no sway."

"Perhaps in New York," Marco notes. "But they're taking over Asia." He takes a sip of water. "Our potential new business partner might see that as an opportunity."

"And yet, we're still their number one choice, are we not?" I ask.

"Yes, thanks to your father," Moe says, glaring at me. "In my opinion, he should have stayed to see this through." He quickly backpedals when the Di Rossis snap their heads toward him. "What I mean to say is that he has rapport and you do not."

"Luckily for us, Camilla oozes charm and charisma,"Leo says. I suppress a snort. "I am sure she will be able to woo the great Malik Alba."

"Malikhasbeen known to thoroughly enjoy the company of women..." Moe's nose scrunches up in pensive thought. "Perhaps, Camilla will not fail after all." He looks at me. "How far are you willing to go for the family?"

"Are you asking me if I'll fuck an international arms dealer to secure the transaction?" I ask, holding my head up high despite the conflicting emotions tugging at my conscience.

"Bluntly speaking..." Moe laughs. "Yes, that is exactly what I am asking." He tilts his grimy head. "Well?"

I should feel offended. I should be repulsed by his suggestion. It should make me nauseous. But it doesn't. Sex is a means to an end. It holds no meaning to me, carries no weight.

Not anymore.

"I'll do whatever I need to do." I scan all the pleased faces around the table. "Angels above all else."

"I don't think that is necessary," Leo begins, but he's cut off.

"Excellent," Moe states. "We will set up a meeting for you and Malik on Friday, yes?"

"Friday, I'm busy," I reply. "Saturday?"

"He lands on Friday, Camilla. It would be beneficial to meet him as soon as possible," Moe says. "What is happening that is so important that you cannot miss?"

I sigh. "I'm attending a gala at the aquarium."