Page 41 of Vengeful Vows
Because Matteo has called, I’m sure he guesses as much. “I’m pleased that the don’s idea was well received.”
“There’s a great deal of skepticism,” he cautions.
Which is why it’s taking time to set up a meeting. “Las Vegas?” I ask. That had been Roberto’s suggestion.
If we stayed in Texas or went to Louisiana, someone would have a perceived advantage.
All families have connections in Las Vegas, I’m sure. But it’s turf that belongs to none of us. “We’ll be at the Bella Rosa.” It’s a statement, more than a question.
“The Russos will be at the L’Impero.”
As the first raindrop hits my window, I press my lips together. The resort is at the far end of the Strip, and it’s owned by Lorenzo’s uncle. “I wasn’t aware of a connection between the La Rosas and the Russos.” That’s remiss. And it’s the type of detail that could cost someone their life.
“Through a distant wedding.”
Other than that statement, Matteo doesn’t comment on my lack of knowledge, but I’m reminded how far I have to go to provide the counsel Don Raffaele needs.
The information is interesting, however. Our biggest potential enemy is distantly related to Lorenzo’s family.
I vow to discuss this with Roberto. What else am I missing?
Matteo gives me intel about where the other two families will be staying, and neither of them are on the Strip.
Because we’ll be spread out, people will be free to come and go, which is not necessarily a good thing. Alliances may be struck that we aren’t anticipating, undoing the don’s efforts.
Still, like the other families, we will have soldiers on the ground, watching as well as following.
“You’ll be traveling with us.”
That will be a first for me.
“Don’t turn soft on us, Nico. La famiglia is counting on you. Get your shit handled and do it now.”
I nod tightly, even though he can’t see me.
Then he’s gone, and I spike my phone on the floor.
Maybe Matteo’s assertion that she’s leading me around by my dick is more accurate than I am willing to admit.
The woman drives me to distraction, and that’s something I can’t afford.
All of a sudden, the skies open up, lashing the window with a torrent of ferocity, as if heaven herself is screaming.
CHAPTERTEN
Bella
“It’s almost your turn,”Amelia remarks, adding a final stitch that cinches me into a dress I’m modeling tonight as part of her winter fashion show extravaganza. She’s not just marking the change of the season; she’s presenting pricey garments for the holidays.
“I don’t think I can do this.” My stomach hurts, and it’s made worse by how tight this dress is.
“No one’s going to be looking at you. They’re here to see the collection.”
Easy for her to say when she’s behind the scenes. “Where are my arms supposed to be, again?”
Amelia sighs.
We’ve gone over this a dozen times, but I can’t keep her millions of instructions straight.