Page 88 of Lucian

“Because I own a forty percent share in Marcello Industries,” Dante answered matter-of-fact. “That was my inheritance guarantee after university. I enjoy working alongside Dad most days. Why do you think I took the day off today, Jordyn?”

“Should have kept her in bed with me this morning,” Lucian said under his breath. “That was much more fun than this.”

Dante ignored the comment. “I suggest you do some fast and dirty research on Joseph and his business before the meeting. Keep in mind he has never exceeded Antony’s bottom line by even a decimal point of a percent, and that’s what matters most to my father, regardless of what Joseph tries to say. Currently, Antony ranks over him by at least four spots on the wealthiest lists, North America, United States, and worldwide included. Remind Antony of that and he’ll calm down a bit.”

“I can’t believe this is about money,” Jordyn said again, clearly exasperated. “That’s ridiculous.”

“Most things are in our business,” Dante replied. “Money makes the world go round.”

Lucian took the phone off speaker and held it back to his ear. “You going to be okay?”

Jordyn sighed deeply. “Sink or swim, Lucian.”

“As long you don’t drown, sweetheart. I wouldn’t let you anyway.”

“Money, honestly. I have to go. Love you, hmm?”

“You, too.”

Lucian hung up the phone with a chuckle, dropping the device to his lap.

“She’ll be fine,” Dante said, grinning. “The other people working around her are jealous as hell. Antony doesn’t bark at Jordyn like he does others because she isn’t afraid to snap back. They’re afraid of him, she isn’t. It’s good for him.”

“She’s tough,” Lucian agreed.

“She’d have to be to be sleeping around with you. Keep her in bed, huh?”

Lucian knew his brother didn’t ignore that comment like he pretended to. “Actually, it was more like the kitchen counter. She tastes like candy. It’s addictive. Love’s crazy, Dante. I think I’m finally getting it.”

“Jesus. I’m going to take your word for it.”

“Antony was worried about people looking at me, but I think they’re going to be watching you even more, now.”

Dante frowned. “I don’t want to be married, Lucian.”

“Then you don’t want to be boss, either.”

“It’s a stupid, archaic tradition. The Commission needs to forget about it.”

“You know they won’t,” Lucian replied. “If anything, they’re going to push Antony harder for you to pick a wife and settle down.”

“Marriage isn’t for everyone. I’m not saying I would be happier alone, but I certainly don’t fucking share very well. Isn’t that what a relationship is? Sharing your life? I don’t have very damn much to offer a woman. I like my life the way it is.”

“That’s also selfish.”

“So be it,” Dante muttered.

“Have you considered letting Dad arrange—”

“No. Vaffanculo with that nonsense.”

“Well,” Lucian drawled, pulling down his sunglasses. “If you don’t want a marriage for love, then have one for business. Like it or not, you need a wife to be eligible to take over the family. That’s reality.”

“I won’t have my father pick my wife like she’s some present to be unwrapped. I’d arrange my own first.”

Something in the lit of his brother’s tone caught Lucian’s attention. “Have you?”

“Not yet.”