Page 11 of Roman

“Four.”

“Three, and I’ll find a companion for you. Someone to play cards with and gossip.”

“I do not gossip. Nor do I require a stranger as a companion. I prefer family.” She met my eyes. “My own family.”

I sighed and took her hand. It felt paper-thin, the spider web of veins underneath it almost purple in color. The skin was becoming translucent, looking fragile. But her grip was strong and sure. “Nonna, I am not getting married or settling down soon. Luca is married now. So is Aldo. They will have little ones soon. I am sure they will be happy to have you bounce them on your knee.”

“I want your children on my knee, Roman. I want to know you are settled and happy. I cannot leave this earth and join my Roberto until I know that.”

I shook my head. “If my being single keeps you here, I’m selfish enough to become a monk, Nonna.”

That made her laugh. She cupped my face. “You deserve to be happy. Settled with a wife. Fill this house, these grounds, with your bambini. Live, Roman. You are not living. You are existing.”

I had no idea how to respond to her. My phone rang in my pocket, and I ignored it. It went silent and rang again. Then again.

Nonna dropped her hands.

“Take the call. It must be important.”

I stood, answering. “What, Franco? This better be important.”

“Boss, that woman is on the phone for you. She says if she doesn’t talk to you, you’ll kill her and it’ll be on my head. She’s called five times.”

I didn’t have to ask who. No doubt, Marianne was calling to beg. Nonna picked up the bag and carried it into the kitchen.

“Patch her through.” I waited until I heard the line click. “Ms. Warner.”

“Finally,” she snapped. “I’ll have your money—all of it—tonight by nine. I’ll bring it to your office.”

I was surprised at her words, and I wondered who she had hoodwinked this time.

“Your sister came through?” I questioned.

“In a manner of speaking. She gave me an idea.”

I furrowed my brow. “I will text you a number. You call it when you’re at the casino. Someone will come out and get the money. You wait while we count it.”

“I’m not going to stiff you. I have a plane to catch. I’m leaving this country. I got a chance at a new start.”

I pitied the man she’d talked into helping her. His life was about to become a nightmare.

“You have until nine. Be grateful I’m being lenient.”

I hung up.

At nine fifteen, Franco came into my office. “Counted, boss. It’s all there. I put it in the vault in your office downstairs. I cleared her marker.”

“Not counterfeit?” I asked.

“No.”

“Was anyone with her?”

“Some goon. I didn’t recognize him.”

“Did we get the exchange on surveillance?”

He looked at me like I was crazy. “Of course.”