Page 79 of Hostile Rival
He takes one step back and folds his arms. I’m pretty sure he’d like to say something cruel. However, he rips his eyes away from me and stalks to the bed, grabbing a piece of toast. Taking a bite, he chews, still not saying a word.
The phone stops ringing, and I know I have to return Blanco’s call without delay. I straighten and clear my throat, letting my veil of hardness return.
“Don’t choke on your breakfast,” I order, turning on the balls of my feet, pushing open the door and moving out onto the terrace.
30
DANIELA
“Blanco.”
“Did I catch you at a bad time, Daniela?” he asks, not out of concern, more a professional courtesy.
I’m a killer who relies on concentration.
“Not at all. I was just about to call you.”
For the second time, I check the patio doors are shut tight and walk to the farthest end of the terrace, out of earshot.
“There are rumors of an Italian palace going up in smoke, because of the Souzas.”
I stare at the horizon and try to detach myself from the events on a personal level. “That’s correct. The Di Rossi girl tried to compromise Matheus’ position. Nico and his family didn't stand a chance against us.”
“Us?” His tone raises a decibel higher.
“I mean…The Covenant…who were led by Matheus.”
“Matheus?” Blanco sounds shocked. “He was responsible for starting a war?”
My stomach churns. “Yeah.”
“Interesting.” He hums. “The boy has finally stepped into the circle of fire. This changes things.”
I frown. “What do you mean?”
“I assumed Teresa had sheltered the boy too much. Turned him into a suit wearing pen pusher who’d happily sit in a big corner office like a coward. Brains are great for passing exams, but they sure as fuck don’t mean anything when they’re splattered on the wall.”
My lungs cramp, not sure what Blanco has in mind. He had made me join The Covenant to watch, listen, and learn. To ensure, when the time came, that he’d have full access to an elite team of hitmen. Having a crew of international killers on speed dial is a huge asset to any man.
Mostly, he needed me to train alongside them, so I’d become the best woman for a very important job. To be Sofia Blanco’s personal bodyguard—until the day I die.
The overprotective cartel boss had seized an opportunity when I appeared out of nowhere, begging for his help. He didn’t want a male guard hovering around his precious daughter twenty-four seven. No, a female with nothing to lose and a debt to pay was the answer.
“I don’t understand. What does it change?”
“Everything, Daniela,” he replies thoughtfully. “Everything.”
“Well, just so you know…The Di Rossis saw my face. I wasn’t wearing a mask when it all went down. Eventually, they’ll trace me back to you.” I sigh. “Matheus took the girl hostage. She’s with one of the agents until after Tomás’ wedding.”
Blanco chuckles. “He really has grown into his father’s shoes.”
I roll my eyes; thankful he can’t see my show of disrespect. “Now that I’ve been exposed, I’m done with The Covenant. They’re all about secrecy and concealment.”
“You’re done with it when I say you’re done, Daniela,” he snaps. “I’m very interested in Matheus now. Form a mutual alliance with him. It won’t be easy if he knows you’re loyal to me. Do whatever you have to do to reel him in.”
God, he has no idea that’s already happened. And I’d never admit it, or even hint at how much I like the guy. I know exactly how the man on the other end of the phone works. He’d use it to his advantage one way or another.
“He’s a Souza, Blanco. You know how I feel about them. I’ve no desire to befriend one.”
