“The Espositos’ are always here to help,” Luca says.
“Yup, let us know if you need more men,” Marco adds.
“The Pituccos, too?” Nico asks.
The tension in our circle drowns out the music playing throughout our reception.
Nick pipes up. “Dad had already given Sergio men for the Cichello protection detail. I wasn’t aware of the detail until years later when Dillon returned. He asked for more men.”
I could feel Nico’s anger rolling off him.
His large hand palms the small of my back and I flinch. Nico’s eyes snap to me. He pulls me close, arm snaking aroundmy waist. He whispers in my ear, “I’m not them, baby. I’d never hurt you. You know that.”
His lips press against my ear and instantly, I feel safe in my husband’s arms.
Even though Nico feels blindsided, he doesn’t address his concerns now.
“I’m Rocco Andrisani.” The dark-haired mafia boss stretches his hand out.
I shake it. “Nice to meet you. Your wife is a treat. I can’t wait to talk to her more.”
“We should get together for dinner,” Rocco suggest.
“I’d love that.” I beam.
“If you two need anything. Don’t hesitate to ask.” Rocco flashes a sexy grin.
Nico grips his shoulder. “Thanks Rocco.”
“Serenity, my name is Franco DeLuca.” He steps closer, stretching his hand out for mine.
“Oh yes,” I grip and shake his hand, enthusiastically. “I met your wife Kennedy. I can tell she’s a total badass. I love her already.”
He smiles with pride. “Thank you. We live in Portland, but we’re in Jersey often. Don’t hesitate to ask for men.”
He peeks at Dillon then back to me. “We’re a family. We help each other.”
Dillon smacks Franco’s back. “Finally, you’re catching on. Took you long enough.”
Laughter erupts in our circle.
Meeting with the wives then their husbands is nice.
“Serenity, I have one more family member for you to meet,” Dillon says coaxing a younger man forward.
He has short inky black hair and vibrant blue eyes. He’s got to be about six-five.
“Serenity, this is my cousin, Rico Bertozzi.”
My brows bunch together. Nico had told me how the Bertozzis were booted out of the five families. Dillon had mentioned the Bertozzis in one of our recent phone meetings. Said they were under reconstruction.
“He represents the Bertozzis now.” Dillon holds my gaze. “If you know what I mean.”
I smile. “Yes, I do.”
Rico is the mafia boss of the Bertozzis. Wow, New Jersey has five families again.
He shakes my hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Serenity.”
