Page 148 of Poison Aches

“Governor, you can agree that we’ve shown you as much grace and support over the years. As a matter of fact, we’ve ensured your success and safety. Are you now saying we wasted our time?”

“No… I’m merely stating…”

“Your hesitation,” the Italian voice says calmly. “I’m sure that won’t fare well for you.”

“No, no, I’m very grateful for all the Outfit has done for me but now I’m no longer in a position where I can be in league with… your kind.”

The disdain in the governor’s voice is clear.

“Our kind?” the other guy says.

“Yes, your kind!”

Silence falls in the room.

“Governor, I want to help you. You signed a contract with the Outfit over twenty-seven years ago. I’m sure you already know that there are no outs, even beyond death.”

“But…”

“And look, you’ve been away from your own party for too long. Why don’t you just sign and be on your way to enjoy your party.”

“I’m not signing that!”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s not enough! My life, my future, and my endeavors will all be in your hands, but that will just mean there’s nothing for me! What do I get in return?”

“Haven’t we been good to you?”

“I am aware of how powerful your family has been in the world for generations, but your family has never been able toget someone of my standing in your palms, but here you are, dangling support in my face? I have support!”

“Then what do you want, Governor?” the Italian voice asks, still calm and poised.

“More!”

My heart jumps.

“I want more! I want a deep assurance! I want more, so unless you are prepared to offer it right here and now, then you can bugger off! I’m not scared of you! You’re not even the boss!”

“What you want…”

“If you can’t even figure that out, then you’ve severely wasted my time. I have a party to get to. Apparently, there’s a gift waiting for me tonight,” the governor says. A chair scrapes on the floor, then I hear determined footsteps. “You can show yourself out.”

Then a door is opened and shut.

What was that?

As I stand there with my mind racing, trying to piece together the meaning of what I just heard, the door I was leaning on suddenly opens.

I stumble forward and crush into a chest.

A firm chest.

“My, my, what have we here?”

Incredibly embarrassed that I just got caught, I quickly step back several steps then look up and stare into one of the most handsome faces I’ve ever seen in my life.

Well, save for one.

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