Page 102 of Fix You

Snorting, I replied, “I assume you're referencing Caterina’s kidnapping and me assuming the role as capo and not our worthless father’s death.”

“Exactly.”

Although I knew the right thing was going home and resting for Maeve, I sighed. It couldn’t possibly hurt to at least swing by for one drink and thank the waitresses and bouncers for the birthday wishes.

Wagging a finger at them, I said, “You two are a bad influence.”

After a quick trip home to shower and change, I met back up with my brothers in the lobby of our building. “Lookin’ good, brother,” Leo replied.

“Thanks. You two cleaned up nicely as well.”

Since Milos was off for the night, Gianni’s bodyguard, Emiliano, had our back along with two part-time bodyguards who I had yet to learn their names. When we arrived at the back of the club, a balloon arch decorated the employee entrance. “Seriously?” I asked with a grin.

Leo winked. “The waitresses got a little carried away.”

Gianni snorted. “I’d agree considering the credit card receipt I got from the party decor store.”

When I stepped onto the floor of the club, I entered an absolute party overload. Yellow and red balloons of all shapes and sizes littered the corners, which was a subtle nod to the Sicilian flag.

Over the main balcony to the VIP section was an enormous banner that readHappy Birthday Raphael.

Our manager, Carissa, handed me an enormous piece of chocolate cake and a flute of champagne. “Happy Birthday, boss!” she shouted over the roar of the music.

“Thanks, Carebear,” I replied, using our nickname for her.

Leo leaned over to speak into my ear. “Listen, G and I have a birthday present for you in your office.”

“You didn’t need to get me anything.”

“Come on, man. You’re not just our brother–you’re our capo. You’ve seen us through some crazy shit this year.”

The sincerity of Leo’s words and his expression caused my chest to tighten. “That means a lot.”

“So, come on.”

I followed him to the employee area. Just before we got to my office, Leo put his phone to his ear. Considering the raging bass, I don’t know how he even knew it’d rung. With a grimace, he said, “I’ve got to take this. Go on in and see your present.”

I grinned. “All right.”

When I opened the office door, it was bathed in muted light. As I started inside, my gaze fell on the couch in the back of the office. A blonde-haired woman outfitted in racy green and gold lingerie sat cross-legged on the couch. An intricate gold mask covered her eyes.

At the sight of me, she rose to her feet. “Good evening, Mr. Neretti.”

“What the fuck are you doing in here?”

“I’m your birthday present.”

“Excuse me?”

“Your brothers told me to wait for you here.”

What the fuck? Had Gianni and Leo lost their minds? There was no way in hell I wanted a strange piece of ass for my birthday. Shaking my head, I started over to her. “I’m sorry, but there’s been some kind of a mistake.”

Her pink lips turned down in a pout. “Don’t I please you?”

As she took a leisurely spin in front of me, I couldn’t help but take in her ample curves on display. When I realized what I was doing, I smacked my hand to my forehead. “No, it’s notabout pleasing or not pleasing me. Whatever it is you’re offering, I don’t want it.”

“Why not?”

---