Page 63 of Vinny

“I’ve heard from Gordon and Todd.”

The statement hung out there between the two, creating a wall as sure as if he had built one from bricks.

Sighing she said, “Yes. I told you that I’m now taking charge of my career. I want to teach part time and perform part time. If I can do a CD, then I will. I plan on spending most of my time in Richmond and only traveling when necessary or to do several concerts a year.”

“It’s him, isn’t it?”

Smiling, she said, “If you are referring to Vinny, then yes. Part of it is because of him.”

“You’re letting a man who knows nothing about the classical music industry, one you have known for a few weeks, make decisions for you?” he accused.

“No, I’m not, father. I’m letting a man who would lay down his life for me, one who has saved me, comforted me, discovered what I want. One who has given me the freedom to be who I want and the courage to stand up for myself, even though it’s long overdue. And one whom I’ve fallen in love with. That’s the man who Ichoose to be with.” Standing, she looked down at her speechless father with nothing but pity in her heart and continued, “This is me…being me. If you can find a continued place for me in your symphony, and in your heart, then I’ll be there gladly.”

Turning, she walked to the door but his voice halted her. “Will you at least consider some of the concerts?”

A lovely smile curved the corners of her mouth. “Of course. I’ll be happy to discuss any of the possibilities with you. I’d value your opinion.” With that, she opened the door and walked down the hall.

As soon as she turned the corner, she ran into a wall. A human wall. Bouncing back, strong arms reached out to grab her arms to steady her. “Vinny!” she squealed, her smile now lighting her face. His customary close-fitting jeans stretched across his thighs and blue shirt that barely contained his muscles were a sight she would never tire of. Lifting her gaze to his strong face, she asked, “What are you doing here?”

“Knew you were coming to talk to your father and thought you might need some support. You okay?”

Green eyes sparkling, she nodded. “Yeah. I’m…perfect.”

“You sure are,” he chuckled.

Playfully slapping his arm, she added, “No, I mean with my father. I know he’s not happy, but I finally realized that I’m not responsible for his happiness. I can’t bend my life to his vision if it makes me miserable.”

Touching his lips to hers, he offered a chaste kiss. One that he would like to take deeper. Longer. But thatwas for later. Now, it was just for her. “Proud of you, princess.”

“Me too.” Sucking in a deep breath, she said, “It feels…freeing.”

Throwing his arm across her shoulders as they walked out of the large concert hall, he asked, “So how do you want to celebrate your new freedom?”

“Hmmm,” she said, tapping her forefinger on her chin and looking at him through eyes filled with desire.

“Don’t start that here or I’ll likely go back into that building and find an empty practice room,” he warned.

Laughing, she said, “Well, practice makes perfect.”

Swatting her ass, he laughed. “Come on, I’ll take you to lunch. I think the guys are meeting at a little deli near here and if I know them, some of their wives will be there also.”

“Lunch with you and friends…perfect!” she exclaimed, linking her fingers with his as they walked down the sidewalk.

21

After lunch, Tony invited Annalissa to join them back at the agency for a briefing. As they filed in and sat at the large conference table, he began.

“There’s a gala next weekend that we’ve been contracted to provide security for. Should be a minimal security contract. Mostly local and state dignitaries present although, there may be some others that are higher profile. It will be, for all intents and purposes, our standard contract mission. Security outside the building and a detail inside. Those inside, formal dress of course.”

“I know what you’re talking about,” Annalissa interjected. “That’s for the annual fund-raising ball for the Richmond Symphony.”

Tony nodded, “Yes. And that’s why I’ve asked you here. I want to discuss another security contract with you.”

Vinny’s eyes cut sharply to his boss’ face.What the hell are you talking about?About to interrupt, he heardsomeone clearing their voice and he looked over at Gabe. Their unspoken communication told him that he needed to at least listen to what Tony was proposing, but his heart was already pounding.

“Okay,” she said, her attention divided between Vinny and Tony.

“If the drugs were planted in your harp before it left for the airport, then just about everyone who’s a possible suspect will be at the gala or the vicinity. We’d like to?—”

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