Page 23 of Death

“Everything okay?” I ask as I take a seat.

He nods. “Did you enjoy the walk?”

“Yeah. Have one of the men keep an eye on our neighbor in the house hidden behind the trees. The man looks like he has the flu, so I don’t think we’ll get any trouble from him.”

“I’ll have Jorge do random checks,” Pedro says before using the two-way radio to contact the guard.

I check the time on my wristwatch, then let out a sigh. “If everything goes okay, the Gleesons should be here at ten pm,” I mutter. “Is there food in the kitchen?”

Pedro rubs his fingers over his jaw, “Maybe some two-minute noodles and water. We haven’t used this safe house in a while.”

My top lip curls up at the side in disgust, and I decide I can hold out until we’re back on the plane before I eat something.

With nothing better to do, I stare at Pedro, who’s two years younger than me. Noticing the gray strands in his black hair, I chuckle. “You’re getting gray before me.”

“It’s because of you,” he mutters.

I let out a chuckle, then remove my phone so I can check in with the other members of the alliance.

Santiago: I’m bored. What’s new?

It takes a minute or so before the replies come.

Leo: Everything is quiet on this side.

Enzo: Get a hobby.

Cassia: You can always come to Greece and help with the massive shipment we’re moving. Knight misses you.

A grin tugs at my mouth. Knight used to be on my payroll before he married Cassia. I miss the fucker as well, but I’m glad he found love.

Santiago: Busy on a job. I’ll try to visit in a few weeks.

When there’s no reply from Dominik, I bring up his number and press dial.

“Hey,” his voice rumbles over the line.

“What’s up?”

“Busy. Grace went into labor.”

I dart to my feet. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“It just started minutes ago.”

“Who’s that?” I hear Grace asking.

“Santiago,” Dominik replies to his wife before he tells me, “Let me get her settled at the hospital, then I’ll call you.”

“Good luck,” I reply before ending the call.

“Grace is going into labor.” I pass the news to Pedro.

My second-in-command only nods, his eyes focused on his phone.

“What are you busy with?” I ask him.

“Go for another walk, Santiago,” he grumbles.

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