The Italian

I stare out over the city as my mind begins to race. “Ten million euros is a lot of money, Lorenzo. It’s only a matter of time before someone accepts it.”

“Put a bounty on his head for fifteen million. His own men won’t be so loyal,” Lorenzo fires back.

I go to the bar and pour myself a drink where I quickly drain the glass. “We’re losing control,” I say quietly.

“We aren’t.”

“Lombardi has contacted my private security guard and offered him ten million fucking euros to kill me. What control do you think I have left?” I cry.

Lorenzo puts his head into his hands, and I turn to Marly. “Thank you, my friend. Your loyalty is greatly appreciated and will be well rewarded. Please, put your ear to the ground and try to find out if anyone else has been contacted.”

“Yes, boss.” He dips his head and rushes from the room.

I pour another glass of scotch as a heaviness hangs in the air. There has been a lot of bad things happening lately, but this is a low blow.

“Who can we trust?” I whisper. “I have no choice. I’m sending Olivia to New York.”

Lorenzo drops his head in defeat.

“It’s the only way I can guarantee her safety.”

“Go with her,” he pleads. “Run, hide… just until I find him. We will flush him out.”

“No.” I sip my drink. “I’m staying. He doesn’t even want the brothels. His war is with me. He wants my Ferrara skin for bragging rights.”

Lorenzo drags his shaky hand down his face. He knows I’m right.

My phone vibrates on my desk and an unidentified number comes up. Lorenzo’s eyes meet mine.

“Keep him on the line for three minutes,” he says.

I nod. “Hello,” I answer.

“Hand them over or pay consequences.”

“Go to Hell,” I whisper. “What do you think you are doing?”

“You were warned.”

The phone clicks as he hangs up.

Another threat from Lucky Lombardi. It’s the third this week.

I stare straight ahead, and anger rages inside of me like a wildfire.

This time in my life is supposed to be exciting. Announcing my marriage. Planning for a baby.

What I am is stressed beyond belief.

“We’ll find him. You have my word,” Lorenzo says from his seat beside me.

“He’s in hiding.” He shakes his head in frustration. “But he can’t hide forever. When he shows his face, he’s a dead man.”

My buzzer sounds. “Mr. Ferrara, I have Sophia here to see you.”

I roll my eyes. Fuck, this is the last thing I need now. “Give me five minutes,” I say to Lorenzo. I push the intercom. “Send her in.”

The door opens and the beautiful Sophia comes into view.