Page 127 of Hostile Love
He saunters over to Salvado, who’s helping Mama with her luggage.
“Hey, brother-in-law, do me a favor and take me to my wife?”
From the shadows a gritty male voice comes after a distant monkey screams.
“She’s waiting for you. India is in her allocated cabin as well. You lot come with me. He points at André, Giovanni, and Teresa, barely glancing at her bodyguard. “The rest should follow Sal.”
Immediately, we all turn towards a wooden platform, accessed by a set of steps, and dappled in fragmented moonlight. A shadowy figure looms over us, his large physique almost camouflaged by the thick foliage surrounding him.
I’m guessing this is our host.
El Fantasma.
The ghost.
An ex-cartel money launderer and full-time vigilante on the shady side of the law.
The intimidating guy stands before us like he’s a jungle king or some big boss. I know exactly who he is, though, and he’sdefinitely not a man I’d choose to pick a fight with––especially in his own territory.
Even though we’re allies, I’ve been informed that agreeing to let my family stay here is a huge deal for him. He set a limit on guests allowed to keep complications to a minimum.
Despite his strict rules, Carina’s happiness was a priority. And that's why we’re camping with the insects and putting up with sticky humidity.
El Fantasma moves into view, allowing the silvery light to brighten his bearded face.
A golden pendant sits on top of his dark t-shirt. Laced boots settle wide and bulky arms cross over his broad chest.
The whites of his eyes glow under the peak of a plain baseball cap, watching us.
Subconsciously, I inch forward, positioning myself in front of Dani. It’s a dumb thing to do given she could easily take the man down in a bare-knuckle fight. But something tugs inside of me…something primal.
“Tomás,” the guy says cordially, pulling a handheld radio from his camo shorts and speaking into it. “The Souzas have landed.”
“Dante.” Tomás nods in his direction, greeting him informally.
Over the past year, these two power players had made an amiable alliance through their mutual love for Carina.
“I’d like to see Cari now.” Tomás pulls back his shoulders and starts walking, clearly impatient.
Dante descends the creaky steps and prowls toward him, holding out his gloved hand.
“She’s already settled for the night.” They shake hands and then Dante turns to the rest of us. “It’s probably best to keep the dog on a leash,” he announces. “For your safety, do not wander off the walkways. If you want to hike through the forest,let me know first. I’ll supply everyone with walkie-talkies and machetes.”
The air’s filled with a rumble of engines, the sound growing louder until it collectively dies out. Dark clothed figures appear and quickly take the stairs, moving around us and gathering our bags.
“I’ve extended the oasis considerably and the cabins are spaced out for ultimate privacy. You won’t meet another person unless you want to. Use the Quad bikes if you’d rather not walk back to the main hub. Everything is in place for the wedding, Tomás. You’ll see Cari tomorrow.”
Tomás frowns. “I want to see her now. Where is she?”
“No,” Dante replies, his refusal surprisingly blunt. “Not tonight.”
While Tomás’ hands fist, Giovanni strolls to his side and folds his arms over his chest.
“He wasn’t asking for your permission, Dante,” he says coolly. “My brother would like to see Carina now he’s arrived. We’ve had a long day and would appreciate your cooperation.”
“Do you believe in bad luck, Tomás?” Dante cocks a brow at him.
When I start walking towards my brothers, Dani follows.
