Page 40 of Ruthless Secrets
I meet Levi on the front step of Clara’s building ten minutes later and give him strict instructions to stay by Clara’s side until I get back. I leave out the specifics of the situation, but Levi knows better than to ask questions.
He stalks inside, and I feel better knowing that Clara won’t be alone. Not that Levi is particularly warm or comforting, but at least he can protect her.
Once I’m back behind the wheel of my car, an eerie sense of calm washes over me.
I’ve been in plenty of high-stakes situations before, and the adrenaline coursing through my blood helps to narrow my focus as I dial Andre’s number.
“What is it Marco?”
“Zoe is missing, and I’m almost certain that Alfonzo took her.”
“Who?”
“I need you to fucking listen, Andre.”
The sound of my engine rings in my ears, and my entire body is vibrating in my seat as I put my foot to the floor and speed away from Clara’s apartment building.
“I am, and I’m asking you who the hell is Zoe?”
I swallow past the lump in my throat as I think of my child who I’ve never even met.
“She’s my daughter.”
“I’m sorry, what? You have a kid? Since when? How?”
“Do I really need to explain procreation to you?”
“I’m just processing this.”
“You can fucking process it later. Right now, we need to find my kid. She’s only six months old, and I need to get her back to her mom.”
“Who is…”
“Notnow,Andre.”
“And you think Alfonzo has taken her?”
“Yes, to prove he can get to us.”
“This is exactly the sort of thing I was afraid of.”
“Not helping, Andre.”
“Drive to the house. I already have Jax and Enzo here. If we’re facing Alfonzo, we’re going to need back up.”
“You want me to drive all the way to Westchester to fucking carpool?”
“It wasn’t a suggestion, Marco.”
It’s not often that I despise the fact I have to answer to my brother, but right now is definitely one of those times.
“I’ll get them briefed. And Marco?”
“Yes?” I ask through gritted teeth.
“He’s not going to win.”
I can’t speak past the painful lump in my throat.
