Page 51 of Trapped

“What they did to Luca has to be repaid with blood.” Vinn loosened his grip, his stare drilling into me. “You get what I’m saying?”

“Yes.”

He released me, nodding. “Then get to work.”

EIGHTEEN

DELILAH

My stomach twisted as I stared at the phone’s screen, my heart pounding. Santino had been so calm when he left, but his silence hadn’t been reassuring. It had screamed disappointment. With every passing second, I was spiraling.

I sent him a message.

When are you coming back?

His reply came a minute later.

Santino

Meeting ran late. What’s going on?

I stared at the message, trembling. What was I supposed to say? Guilt gnawed at me.

Nothing.

Santino had every right to be pissed. I’d put him in danger by not telling him sooner. I’d let Dimitri corner me, and Santino had to clean up the mess I’d made.

Santino

I’ll be there soon.

I stared at his response, panicking. He was mad. I knew it. I tossed the phone onto the couch. I’d spent the last few hours since the fight with Dimitri at Santino’s bachelor pad, a swanky spot in the middle of downtown. As soon as I stepped through the door, I headed straight for his liquor cabinet. I grabbed the bottle of vodka from the table. My hand shook as I poured another glass, the clear liquid splashing the sides. I raised it to my lips and took a burning gulp.

Santino

Are you taking care of yourself?

I might be indulging just a little.

Santino

Drinking?

Toasting survival.

I could imagine him rubbing the bridge of his nose.

Santino

I don’t like you drinking alone.

Come keep me company then.

I smirked, the edges of my vision slightly blurred.

Santino

We need to talk.

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