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“Big Tony.”
The big man sobbed on the phone. “Gavin. I swear I had nothing to do with it. The son of a bitches knew I was off for two days. I’ve been praying that you know I would never do anything to hurt you. Believe me.”
I smiled. “I know that, Big Tony. I never blamed you.”
“Thank you, Boss. Where are you?”
“Are you at the office?”
“Yes. I haven’t taken a day off since the explosion.”
Still peering at the office, I tapped the steering wheel. “Is my brother there?”
“Brocco? He left to run an errand.”
“How is he?”
“Seems to be good. Told us he’s waiting for the official proclamation from the commission that he’s the new Don. So, have you stepped down permanently?”
“No. Still working through some things. Don’t tell him I called.”
“You have my word, Boss,” he said firmly, and I believed him. Big Tony would die for me.
“Look out the right window in the front.”
“Okay.”
“I’m in the Black Chevy.”
“I see you,” he said, almost childlike, and I could almost feel the wave he sent my way. Big Tony worked for my father for years and now works for me. He loved my family and loved me most of all. As crazy as it seems, although I was stunned by Brocco’s attempt on my life, I would’ve given up all hope if Big Tony had been my betrayer.
“Keep your schedule and your routine because I don’t want anyone to know I’m back, including Brocco. Instead of going home tonight, meet me at that café shop in Two Bridges.”
“Got ya, Boss.”
I clicked, and as I started to back off the street, Brocco rode by in his Porsche and sped into the side driveway. No one was around. I could easily pick him off and deal with the Commission and Enzo later. When he exited his car, I stopped breathing. My 9mm was still in my hand. Two quick shots to his heart, and it was over. I pressed the button to lower the window and lifted my gun as Brocco checked his surroundings and glanced at my car, though I knew he couldn’t see me clearly from this distance. I tried to pull the trigger and failed. I could only see my protector, not my destroyer before he went inside.
Disappointed in myself, I backed up off the street before turning around so he couldn’t read my tag. Sure, my brother took another peek at my car once he made it inside safely.
TWO BRIDGES, A COMMUNITY nestled between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, used to be a mecca for Italian and Irish immigrants. Now, the area is full of Asian, Hispanic, and ethnically diverse groups. I had a couple of moderate-cost homes in the neighborhood that I rented. I sat waiting for Big Tony in a cafe.
His hulking frame covered the small doorway as he scanned the café searching for me. Big Tony waved when he spotted me. He slid into the booth, and a waitress immediately appeared. The waitress took his order for a double bacon cheeseburger, extra large fries, and a chocolate shake. I just had another cup of coffee.
“You got to stop eating like that.”
Big Tony grinned. “I have one life to live, and at any moment, I could be taken out. I’m enjoying whatever fucking food I want. I’m not trying to be the next GQ model like you.”
“Ha. Ha.” It’d been a running joke since I was a teenager and grew to six feet two one summer that if mafia life didn’t pan out, I could be a model. “Do you know why I asked you to be here tonight?”
He slowly nodded. “Only one person outside of me would have access to your home without any of us questioning it.”
“Look, I know you love both of us...”
Big Tony had his hand up. “No. My loyalty has always been to you. I couldn't have been prouder when you were appointed head of the family. I also noticed that your brother wasn’t.” We spoke openly but were careful not to say names. “Whatever you need from me, I’ll make it happen.”
“What can you tell me now?”
“They want to hear from you. They won’t appoint unless you make it clear you’re not coming back. Brocco even reached out to Italy, and they’re waiting to hear from you before a new edict is proclaimed. I have to say, as time passes, they are considering making him Don. Rumors have spread that you’re actually dead, and Brocco is covering it up, or worse, that you ran like a coward.” The food was placed in front of him, and he began to eat and talk. “It’s pissing him off that a decision hasn’t been made because he believes his hands are tied, and he can’t move in the organization like he wants. The reality is that he’s lazy and wants the power to delegate to others without expecting to do something. As much as he didn’t like Brazino, he will rule like him. Your father didn’t make a mistake in choosing you. He tried to rein Brocco in when he was a boy. He never wanted to listen or take heed to your father’s advice. He hated your father because he tried to make him do right or better and refused to take responsibility for his actions.”
