“Love you too, big brother.”
I disconnect the call.
Shit, now there will be two wars going on. Mine in my grandfather’s name and the four families against the Bertozzis.
I call Serenity from the burner.
She answers on the second ring. “Hello?”
“It’s Nico. Call me back on this phone from a secure line.”
Serenity calls right back. “What’s wrong?”
I tell her what happened.
“Due to our war with the Bertozzis, you could be in danger. I’m sending additional soldiers to secure the perimeter around your New Jersey home.”
“All right, Nico. Thanks.” She pauses briefly. “So Sergio’s no longer in charge?”
I catch the subtle fear in her voice. Rubbing the bridge of my nose, I close my eyes tightly. This is exactly why I hate that she shut me out. Still, I’m glad Sergio filled me in.
“No, he isn’t.”
Serenity’s fear isn’t about my enemies—it’s about hers.
“I won’t let any of my enemies harm you.”
“Nico, I understand the life we were born into. Have a safe trip.”
“Goodbye, Serenity.”
I end the call.
No matter what, I will keep Serenity safe.
Chapter Twenty
SERENITY
I’m thankful Nico brought me up to speed on the five families war. What happens with the agreement my father made with Sergio about my protection? At some point when the war is over, I’ll have a sit-down with Dillon.
With all the extra protection my ex-boyfriend provided, I plan to enjoy my summer. While Nico’s living his best life, I’m living mine.
Over the summer I’m on a different yacht every weekend. It should be the best summer ever, but that hole in the pit of my stomach reminds me I haven’t seen Nico in a couple of months.
A text appears on my phone.
I smile.
Alvin: When can I see you, gorgeous?
Me: This weekend. I’ll send my driver to pick you up. How about we have a little fun in Boston?
Alvin: Yeah, sounds good.
I met Alvin on one of the yachts over the summer. We’d gone on a few dates in Philly. He doesn’t force himself on me. Even though he’s a bad boy. I love that he doesn’t question my need for security. He’s a drug lord. Only twenty-five. It’s best I associate with bad boys. They align with my lifestyle. I’m sure he won’t be opposed to a little fuck session.
Standing in front of the mirror, my eyes take in my lack of clothes. I take a deep breath.
