Page 11 of King of Omen

With a snarl of irritation, I twisted to see another retinue of unknown men of some Mafioso affiliation, with smarmy grins, slicked-back gel hair and eager eyes, headed my way with purpose.

I needed air, some fuckin’ atmosphere to relieve some of this shitty grief on my mind.

The anguish this time was different from losing my parents. Then, I’d been too young to understand much.

Now, at 39, I’d learned plenty more, and it was breaking my heart.

Hell, I’d lost the only woman who, for years, had been the most solid anchor in the wild ocean of our world.

Holding back my sorrow was like keeping a savage storm on a leash.

I glanced around, seeking room in the packed space.

With a curse, I decamped.

With Mauri running interference for me.

Chapter 3

MIA

I’d made provision for a hundred and fifty but now over two hundred people crowded Bianca’s house.

Every corridor and free space was packed and milling with bodies.

The kitchen heaved, chefs produced trays, and the servers went hard, churning out food and drinks for the hungry mourners.

Moving with efficiency through the house, I restocked platters and cleaned up messes. I straightened furniture and ensured everyone was well cared for, including the priest and Bianca’s closest friends.

I pushed through, unceasingly, until my body sent signals I needed the restroom.

First, I tried the hallway restroom, sighing as I spotted a line of ten women waiting.

Next, I attempted the second downstairs bathroom. It was also packed, this time with a queue of men, some of whom smiled at me, some waggling their brows at me with creepy intent.

I ran upstairs.

It was quieter here, and I breathed freer, heading for my aunt’s guest bedroom toilet I’d designated as a second bathroom for men.

Only to find a burly, suited figure lurking outside the door.

The same thug who’d banished me from my seat in the chapel.

‘Fuck, not you again,’ I whispered.

He raised a brow.

‘I have to get in there,’ I growled, not in the mood for more of his bullshit.

He gave me an amused side glance. ‘No can do, miss, the Don is inside.’

Hit with more anger at his and his boss’ bullying and downright rude attitudes and the need to pee now, I scowled.

This was not his house, and I had some rights as its caretaker.

Besides, I was also about to embarrass myself if he didn’t let me in.

I waited for a minute longer, hopping from one foot to another, but still, no one exited.

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