Page 28 of Choosing Stella

“I wanted to offer assistance. Mr. Bellacorte had enemies, Ms. Moon. Powerful men often do. His death may create complications for people who were near him.”

“Complications like being suspected of murder?”

“Exactly.”

Stella’s fingers tightened around the phone.

“What kind of assistance?”

“Counsel. Resources. People who understand how to manage a situation before it becomes something larger.”

“You can manage a homicide investigation?”

“I can make sure you aren’t crushed under one.”

Volkov kept his words polite, but the pressure underneath them was clear enough.

“You don’t know me,” Stella said.

“I know Antonio trusted you enough to bring you into his private residence.”

“He paid me to be there.”

“That doesn’t make you less deserving of help.”

She glanced at me.

I kept my expression neutral.

Volkov continued.

“You’re in a vulnerable position. I can make certain the right attorneys are involved, the right questions are asked, and this problem goes away before it damages your life.”

“And what would I owe you?”

He paused slightly longer this time.

“Nothing.”

Stella smiled without humor.

“Men with influence don’t usually call women before breakfast offering expensive favors for nothing.”

“I respected Antonio.”

“So did plenty of people, apparently.”

“I’m trying to help.”

“I already have help.”

Volkov’s voice cooled by a degree.

“The Network?”

“My arrangements aren’t your concern.”

Silence held for another beat.