Page 115 of Arranged

Why did his tone sound accusatory?

Every muscle remained tense. Watching my back would now become an art form. “I had an idea.”

“Well, I can only imagine the details. I need to ask you a question, Don Banderas.”

“Don’t do that, Gio. I didn’t want this shit to happen.”

“You didn’t? Are you certain about that?”

Right now wasn’t the time to appear soft regarding any issue. Or any man. I crowded his space, towering over him by several inches. He immediately felt uncomfortable, unable to look me in the eyes. “Let me explain something to you, Gio. Just in case you haven’t figured this out on your own. You’ve heard the term ‘the survival of the fittest,’ I presume.”

“Yes.” At least his tone was already strained.

“Well, I’m the big, bad shark and all others right now are mere fishes in my pond. Don’t think that because I’ve been your associate that I won’t quickly become your enemy. I suggest you remember that.”

Gio nodded, lowering his head finally in a nod of respect.

Fuck that. It meant nothing to me.

I remained where I was, allowing him another opportunity to push against my authority.

He didn’t.

Smart man.

Exhaling, I backed away. “Business as usual. It must remain that way. We keep up all appearances. When the other syndicates rear their ugly heads, I need to know immediately. And trust me, it’s only a matter of hours until the challenges begin.”

“Yes, boss.”

He was still nervous. Word that I was taking no shit would filter down quickly. That was necessary.

“What was your question?” I asked and rubbed my eyes. Exhaustion would soon settle in.

“Did you ever wonder why Lupini wasn’t more upset about losing three men? Or why the perpetrators didn’t attempt to take an entire warehouse full of weapons?”

I had, more than once. “They were specialized weapons, Gio. However, what are you insinuating, that Don Lupini intended on double-crossing Don Santorelli?”

“I’m just suggesting it’s interesting. Maybe I’m wrong. I don’t know him very well.”

“No, you don’t. I’ll keep it mind, but that’s not the only question you have on your mind, now, is it?” His face turned ashen as soon as I’d cornered him.

“No, sir. Who are the woman and child inside your home? I hear things. The men talk.”

I could handle his challenge one of two ways. Either I could provide the other men with a visible sign I was taking no shit, or I could answer him as honestly as possible. At this point, I knew it would be impossible to keep the truth a secret but for so long.

This would test the waters.

“She’s my sister and that’s my niece.”

His eyes opened wide and he whistled. “Well, shit. That’s a possible problem.”

“I know that. She was threatened. I have no issue gutting any man who ignores my rules or challenges, but I will not allow a woman and child to be hurt because of some turf war. My sister couldn’t care less whether I was dead or alive, but I don’t feel the same about her. Do you understand?”

I’d managed to choose my words correctly. “Yeah, I do. My sister hates me too. Disowned my existence the moment she learned what I’d chosen to do with my life. But I love her and would die trying to protect her. I assure you the men will also protect them with their lives. If not, they’ll answer to me.”

I heard his sincerity. “Good. I appreciate that. Maria won’t make it easy.”

He grinned. “I do love a tough woman. Maybe I’ll personally look after her.”

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