Code of Honor (Spontagio Family 1)

“Well, I don’t know about normal.” I laugh, nudging her side.

“Okay guys, listen up.”

Marcus claps his hands, motioning for us to listen. We all gather around him, waiting to hear what hell he is planning to unleash on us today.

“We’re now entering our fourth week of this eight-week intensive training schedule. By the end of this week, we will be letting half of you go.”

His words slam through me. All I can think is my dream could be over by the end of this week.

“The key to succeeding here is to not hold back. Put everything into the next five days, and show us why we would be crazy to let you go.”

The rest of the day drags on as the instructors put us through our paces. I have no idea if I’m in the top or bottom half of the class. I know I’m good, but so is everyone else here. The saving grace of the day is hearing the news that tomorrow we don’t start until midday.

“Come on,” Ana says after our session finishes. She takes my hand and drags me to the door. “I need a caffeine fix.”

Even though I don’t drink coffee, I agree. We walk down the street to a small café. Ana orders while I choose a little table near the front window. It’s a cute little shop with a nice vibe.

“God, I’m exhausted.” Ana moans, falling into the seat opposite me. “Is it just me or are they riding us really fucking hard?”

“It’s not just you. I practically fall into bed every night. Thank God tomorrow is a twelve o’clock start.” I’ve never been so thankful for a board meeting in my life, or that our instructors were on the board.

“We need to do something tonight,” Ana says, her tone decisive. “We’re going out. You and me. I will not be taking no for an answer.”

“I can barely move,” I protest. The waitress arrives with a tray and places a cup in front of Ana, and one in front of me that looks suspiciously like coffee. I raise my eyebrows at Ana. “I told you I didn’t want anything. I don’t do coffee.”

“Which is why you’re always tired. Besides, it’s a decaf mocha,” she says, waving her hand. “What’s it gonna hurt?” Rolling my eyes, I lift the cup to my mouth and take a sip. The sweet hit of chocolate masks the slightly overpowering taste of the coffee blend. I don’t hate it.

“You sure this is decaf?” I ask her, narrowing my eyes. She smiles innocently at me. I’m convinced it’s coffee, but I drink it anyway, because if she’s going to make me go out with her, I’m going to need all the energy I can get.

“Okay, this is my new favorite café. We will be coming back here.” She giggles, nodding toward the counter. I turn around and smile. A hot guy stands at the register. His tight shirt clings to his muscles, showing off his athletic frame. The line to be served by him almost reaches the door and is made up completely of women waiting to get their fill of that sexy smile.

“Uh-huh.” I laugh.

“Come on. He’s gorgeous. Or do you have a boyfriend?”

I blush. “Not really. There’s a guy I like, but it’s complicated.”

“Well, uncomplicate it.” She shrugs. If only it were that simple. “Don’t let stupid little shit hold you back. You’ll regret it. Trust me.”

The conversation moves back to us going out. I groan, realizing there is no way I’m getting out of this. After ten minutes of listening to her whining I finally agree. We arrange to meet outside a bar at eight.

I have enough time to shower and change, but I’m running late because I can’t decide what to wear. I decide on a short black skirt and a blue tank top, finishing off the look with my leather jacket. Despite my reluctance to go, I’m actually looking forward to getting out of the apartment. I feel like all I’ve done since arriving is train, eat, and sleep. I should be embracing my freedom while I have it.

Ana is waiting for me when I round the corner. She spots me and her face breaks into a smile. Running up to me, she hugs me as though we haven’t seen each other in years. I laugh at her enthusiasm. She and Bella would love—or hate—each other so much, they’re so alike.

“Aren’t you excited?” she squeals, taking my hand. “I’ve been dying to go out, but being in a new place and not knowing anyone sucks.”

“Let’s do this.” I grin. I have no idea where we are going. Ana leads me down the sidewalk, chattering nonstop as we walk. With every passing day, I’m feeling more comfortable in my surroundings. New York is a big shock to my system. I wouldn’t call Chicago a small town, but in comparison it has nothing on this place.

“So, this place is supposed to be where all the celebs hang out,” she gushes, pushing me into the line. I giggle and scan the crowd of people waiting to get in, the line continuing for at least a few hundred yards.

“We’re going to be waiting here all night,” I say.

“But it’ll be worth it. I saw a picture on Instagram last week of Orlando Bloom in this place. Can you imagine?” She squeals again.

I laugh, not wanting to admit I’d be more impressed running into Michael Bublé.

After forty-five minutes in line, we’re finally let inside. Walking in, I have to admit, I’m impressed. This place is pure class. Black, silver, and white is everywhere, and you can tell just by looking at the furnishings that they cost an arm and a leg. We make our way over to the bar to order our drinks.