Page 29 of Vicious Vows

I lost myself in our mutual ecstasy, but a dominating thought crossed my mind. One that I had no idea how true it would end up being.

What happens when the queen is caught between two savage kingdoms?

SEVEN

Marchello

My next planof action was the most dangerous one yet, but my family always said that men of action came out on top.

I hoped they were right, because this holding pattern had been going on long enough. We had to make a move and get back to the business of bringing our father home.

It was time for us to make a move. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Lorenzo could be a formidable opponent or a useful ally. I had yet to decide which one, so for now, I had to play nice and work with him. Although, working well with others was never really my strong point.

Milo looked around the private club where we had dinner the night before as we waited for Lorenzo to join us. “Maybe we should think about getting into the hotel business. Somewhere tropical. Off-shore accounts.”

“It has possibilities.” I swirled the vodka around my glass as I sat at the bar. “Let’s get the old man home first and then we can entertain it.”

“I heard from Juan.”

“And?”

“There’s a soldier from the Bello family hiding in Sicily.” Milo leaned against the bar. “They think he’s responsible for stealing from Bello and he went into hiding.”

“Why hasn’t Bello handled it?”

“I don’t know, but Juan thinks that if this guy has any information on what happened to the head of the cartel’s nephew, we might be able to offer him protection in exchange for information.”

“Getting mixed up in Bello’s private matters could be risky,” I said.

“I’m willing to take that risk if it brings Dad home.”

“I agree.” I nodded as Lorenzo came toward us. “You can check it out.”

“I’m already on it,” Milo said.

Lorenzo joined us at the bar and took a seat next to me. “I hope you’re enjoying your stay. Where is the lovely Lissia?”

“She spent the afternoon at the spa.” I told Lissia to give me some time with Lorenzo so we could negotiate terms for our new partnership. “She’ll be joining us shortly.”

“Perfect.” Lorenzo nodded. “I’m having dinner set up on my private terrace for a few of my VIP guests. Your entourage is included.”

“I trust there will be ample security?” Milo asked. “We can’t be too careful.”

My brother’s attention to detail was top-notch. As carefree as he appeared, he was always thinking. He stayed a step ahead of everyone. I trusted him with my life.

“All is in order, but you are definitely welcome to have a look for yourself.” Lorenzo took out his cell. “I’ll text my head of security and tell him you and a few of your men are coming to evaluate the logistics of tonight’s event.”

When Milo looked at me, I nodded. It couldn’t hurt.

“We appreciate that,” I said. “Given the current climate of my business and having Lissia here with me, I have to take every precaution.”

“I don’t blame you.” Lorenzo composed and sent a quick text. “I want our association to work out. I’ll do what you need to trust me. I want Lissia safe too.”

“Thank you,” Milo said. “I’ll grab a few men and check it out.”

“The head of security is waiting on the top floor to greet you by the elevators,” Lorenzo said. “I’ll see you soon.”

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