Ralph looked at me with a concerned expression. I just winked at him, reassuring him that everything would be okay.
I sure hope my plan works.
And if it doesn't, I'll think of something.
I need this money.
CHAPTER 5
COLE
Irushed toward the front door and knelt to help Michael stand up. Vito, this brute, was just standing there with a smug look on his face. He was Moretti’s muscle man. Somebody I didn’t want to mess with.
“Vito! What the fuck are you doing here? We don’t owe Moretti anything. All our debts are paid off and have been paid off for a long time,” I said.
“That’s right, Cole, but Michael over here owes Mr. Moretti some money.”
Michael finally stood up and looked at me with a confused expression.
“Wait, you know this clown?” Michael asked.
“Who you calling a clown, Michael? I’ll smash your face through the door.”
I got in front of Michael. Apparently, he was shooting off his mouth without understanding the consequences. Vito was a very nasty person, and he couldn’t care less who he whacked.
“No one is doing anything, Vito. Take a breath. Step back, please.”
Blondie was comforting Michael, while Vito was huffing and puffing.
“Keep your boy under control, especially his mouth. Mr. Moretti wants his money soon. Otherwise, you know what happens. Let’s leave it at that.”
I do know what happens. That’s what I’m afraid of.
Vito turned around and left the club.
“Are you okay?” Blondie asked.
“Of course, he’s okay. He’s a Bennett.”
Blondie walked over to me.
“You’re so brave, the way you stood up to that thug. That’s very comforting.”
I’m scared out of my mind, but I had to show a brave face.
“Thank you, Blondie. It’s all good. You have the job.”
“Thank you, Cole. You won’t regret it. See you tonight, 10:00 p.m.?”
“Yes, that’s fine. It’s 3:10 p.m. now. We’ll see you then.”
Blondie gave me a kiss on the cheek, and Michael accompanied her out the door. Michael closed the club door and came over.
“What the hell was that?” I asked Michael.
“Dad, it’s not what you think.”
“So explain it to me. What is it?”
