Page 93 of The Empress
I glance at Dante. “Have men keep an eye on Giada and Liliana and leave a team here at the mansion.”
“Yes, boss.”
As I turn around and walk toward Haven, I say, “Massimo, please take Dakota back to my mother’s place.” Stopping in front of my wife, I tell her mother, “I need to spend some time with Haven for a few days, so she won’t be visiting. I hope you understand.”
Dakota nods. “Of course. I’m sure you have a lot to talk about.” She gives Haven a hug. “I’ll call you.”
“Okay. I love you, Mom.”
“I love you too, Sweetheart.”
When they pull apart, I take Haven’s hand and lead her out of the mansion.
Once we’re alone in the Porsche and I steer the vehicle out of the gates, she says, “Thank you for hearing Aunt Giadia and Liliana out.” She places her hand on my thigh again, which is something I could get addicted to. “And for allowing Luciano to return.”
I only nod, the need to be alone with Haven at our home overwhelming.
There’s so much I want to tell her about Diego and Mr. and Mrs. Messina.
My thoughts turn to Nicolo and Vito, and anger swirls in my chest.
Honestly, Vito isn’t a priority anymore.
I just want Nicolo.
I dig my phone out of my pocket and connect it to the Porsche. Dialing Massmimo’s number, I don’t have to wait long for him to answer.
“What’s up?”
“Once you’ve dropped Dakota off at home, get the private jet ready. I want a team of our best men, especially Dante, Ricco, and Mattia. We’re going to Croatia the day after tomorrow.”
“Okay. How are you holding up?”
My hands grip the steering wheel tighter, and avoiding the truth, I answer, “I just need time to process everything.”
“Do you want me to come over?”
“No, it’s okay,” Haven replies on my behalf. “I’ll take care of Leo.”
He pauses for a moment, then says, “Call me if you need anything else.”
“Thanks, Massimo.”
I tap on the screen, ending the call, then glance at Haven. “You want to take care of me?”
“Yes.” There’s a possessive tone to her voice that I like a hell of a lot. “You’re my husband.”
Chapter 24
LEO
When we walk through the front door, I head straight for the side table in the living room to pour myself a drink.
Just as I take a sip of whiskey, Haven grabs hold of my gun. My body tenses when she pulls it from where it’s tucked into my pants, and I wait to see what she’ll do.
She reaches past me and places it down on the side table.
I let out a slow breath, and when she wraps her arms around me from behind and rests her cheek against my back, my body instantly relaxes.
