Speak Low (Speak Easy 2)

For a second I was confused and then I realized Gina must have slapped her or something.

“It’s not about what he wants, dimwit, it’s about what I want! It pays to be Daddy’s little girl, you know.”

“I know.”

“I’m just trading in for a younger, handsomer model.” Gina giggled. “One with all the right equipment. And boy does he know how to use it!”

My stomach heaved as Valerie squealed. “You’re telling me! He’s about the best-looking man I’ve ever seen. You’re so lucky.”

“Honey, it ain’t luck. I know how to use my equipment too.”

“You’re so naughty,” chided Valerie. I heard the clink of coins and figured they were tipping the attendant.

“At least I’m not boring,” said Gina. “You’ve gotta be naughty to keep a man like that. Otherwise, they’ll start running around.”

“Honey, they all run around eventually,” Valerie said confidently.

“Well, if Enzo does, my Daddy will cut off his balls before he even sees the knife coming. Or I’ll do it myself.” They laughed again as they exited into the lounge. “Val, you got a ciggie?”

The music got louder when they opened the ladies room door, and then it was muted again. They were gone.

My heart was beating so fast and loud it sounded like a locomotive in my head. Was there such a thing as a heart attack brought on by anger? If so, I was about to suffer one. I shoved the heel of my hand into the side of the stall, hard.

“Miss? Are you all right?” the attendant asked.

I sighed. “Yes, I’m fine. I just…bumped into the wall.” Rolling my eyes at the lame explanation, I decided to actually use the facilities since I was in there. When I came out, I washed my hands, and tipped her with some loose change from my purse.

What I didn’t do was look in the mirror. I dreaded the sight of my stupid, gullible face.

Ducking the slanted ceiling, I left the bathroom and started for the booth. I had to pass by Gina’s table, and at first I hoped no one would notice me, but then I happened to look up and notice Enzo lighting her cigarette again.

“Fuck it.” I swore softly and turned on my heel, heading straight for them.

Chapter Eight

“Good evening.” I greeted the table with a friendly smile. Gina looked at me as if I were a bug to be shooed away but Enzo’s face drained of color. Good.

“Miss O’Mara,” he said. “How nice to see you again. You remember my fiancée, Gina Meloni?”

I wasn’t sure if the emphasis was because he thought I didn’t recognize her, or if it was supposed to serve as a warning to behave myself. Either way, I didn’t much care. “Of course. And what a lovely dress you’re wearing. I just adore it.”

Gina smiled, smoke seeping from her lips. “It’s from New York. It was a gift from Enzo. He’s always buying me something.”

“Mr. Generosity.” I met Enzo’s eyes. “Got a cigarette to spare?”

“Certainly.” He removed a gold case from his coat and opened it. While I chose one, he glanced at Gina, who was staring at the diamonds at my throat. “Allow me to light it for you and escort you back to your table, Miss O’Mara.”

I lifted my shoulders. “If you insist.”

“Say, that’s some serious ice around your neck.” Gina pointed at the choker. “Enzo, you see that?”

“I do.” He brandished a lighter and flicked the switch, pinning me with a look that said stay quiet.

“That’s the kind of gift I want next.” Gina pouted as I leaned closer to Enzo and allowed the small flame to light the cigarette between my lips.

I took in a lungful of smoke and exhaled. “You should get her one, Enzo. When is the wedding anyway?”

“Next Saturday,” answered Gina. “We just can’t wait any longer, can we, darling?”