Page 51 of Scarred Heir
“That sounds like a lot to put on you, especially if the three of you run things together.”
“We’re still running things together. We all have a role to play.” He closed his eyes. “I’m not supposed to get distracted.”
“I guess barging in on your dinner the other night and asking for your help was a distraction.”
“A big one.” He rolled onto his side and propped himself on his elbow. “I can’t really explain it, but something tells me I need you here.”
It wasn’t as if I had anything important going on. I could put off life for a few weeks and keep the gorgeous mafia man company. He looked like he could use it.
“Stay with me.” He reached out and touched my leg. “A little distraction won’t hurt.”
“I do appreciate what you’ve done for me and Chance.” I placed my hand over his. “Thank you.”
“Maybe you are giving me something in return.” He squeezed my leg. “Something I didn’t know I needed.”
Who wouldn’t want to save a tortured bad boy with a traumatic past? But I was smart enough to know his trauma didn’t end with his past. His future had violence written all over it, and in turn, that could mean heartache for me.Are his passionate eyes, impressive ink, and rough exterior enough?
My own demons gnawed at my soul. What if the darkness inside both of us was too much?
THIRTEEN
Milo
The aromaof homemade sauce flowed out of the kitchen and engulfed the back room. The scents of garlic and onions mixed with fresh basil and oregano brought me back to a time and place that I tried not to go to very often. Some memories were too brutal to recall, but Franchi’s Bistro had always been my favorite restaurant growing up.
There were many dinners filled with laughter and love with my family stored in my plagued mind. We celebrated birthdays and special occasions here from the time I was a baby, but we stopped coming after that car bomb took everything from us.
“Milo.” Old Jojo Franchi approached our secluded table in the corner, gripping his hand-carved walking stick. “I’m always honored when you come.”
“The honor is all mine.” I shook his hand, being careful not to squeeze his arthritic fingers. “You have the best sausage and broccoli rabe in thecity.”
“You flatter me.” He turned his attention to Sable. “Who is this lovely girl?”
“This is Sable,” I said.
“Sable?” When Mr. Franchi took her hand and gently kissed her knuckles, she blushed. “What an interesting name.”
“It comes from my grandmother’s maiden name of Sabella.” She glanced at me before giving Mr. Franchi her undivided attention.
How didn’t I know she had Italian roots?Because you never asked her.
I sipped my vodka as Sable inadvertently charmed the old man with her dazzling smile and expressive eyes. There was still a shyness in her demeanor, but she was different from the woman I’d met in my club. She carried herself with a little more confidence as we walked through the dining area.
She even shot daggers at the hostess when we came through the doors, making sure to hold on to my arm a little tighter when the woman led us to our intimate table. Sable’s attempt to claim me aroused me, even if I wasn’t one to be possessed by anyone. I might make an exception for her.
Perhaps it was the new dress that made her feel like she belonged. Or the trip to the salon for a fresh haircut and highlights I’d sent her on this afternoon. When she hurried into this restaurant a few days ago, flustered and afraid, she stuck out like a sore thumb in her tattered jeans, worn sneakers, and no makeup.
I saw the remarkable woman beneath the scared exterior who stood before me stripped of dignity when she asked for my help. Her desperation intrigued me. Her need for me triggered an obsession so deep that if I wasn’t careful, it could devour both of us.
“This one is a keeper.” When Mr. Franchi patted my shoulder, I realized I had been so lost in my thoughts, I zoned out of the conversation. “I’ll send over another round of drinks.”
“Thank you.” I set my glass down. “If there is anything you ever need, you know to call me.”
“Always.” Mr. Franchi shook my hand again. “Please tell your father I said hello. I haven’t seen him in such a long time.”
“He’s been busy, but I’ll let him know you were asking for him.”
“Maybe he’ll join you and your brother on your mother’s birthday this year.” He winked. “It’s time.”
