Page 14 of The Taste of Deceit

“How bad?”

Marco slides a photograph across the desk.

“Four broken ribs. Fractured orbital bone. Concussion. He’s set to be released back into general population tomorrow.”

Mikey studies the picture for several seconds before setting it back down.

“Do we know who ordered it?”

Marco glances down at the report.

“Rocco Moretti.”

Mikey’s jaw tightens.

“Why?”

“Tony refused to move product for him.”

Rocco has spent the better part of twenty years building influence inside prison walls. He’s got people working for him in multiple facilities and enough connections on the outside to make himself a constant headache.

Mikey folds his hands on top of the desk.

“Get ahold of Vincent.”

Marco nods.

“I’ll do it after we’re done here.”

“No. Do it now.”

Marco doesn’t hesitate. He pulls out his phone and sends a text. Mikey’s eyes never leave the photograph.

“I want every source of income Moretti has inside those walls cut off.”

Marco looks up, but Mikey isn’t finished.

“I want every favor he’s owed called in. Every debt collected. Every person working for him reminded exactly who keeps them protected.”

Marco types another note into his phone.

“Okay.”

“One more thing.”

“Boss.”

“Tell Vincent I want the favor returned.”

Marco nods once, and just like that the conversation is over. Mikey sets the photograph aside.

“Now tell me about the family.”

Marco flips to the next page.

“Frank’s daughter-in-law picked up a second job. Between the kids and everything else, she’s struggling.”

A frown pulls at Mikey’s face.