Page 29 of Stolen Compliance

I manage not to jolt as I smile at Kari, who is grinning up at me. Her eyes clearly catch everything, though, which is terrifying. It doesn’t matter how much her father wants to mold her into the perfect mafia princess, I can’t see that happening. She’d probably kill her husband, take over his Organization, and then rule the world.

“Laughing?” Kari states tightly, her eyes flashing unhappily at me.

Shaking my head, I grin at her—a real one this time. “Not at you. I promise. In fact, I was thinking you could very well rule the world.”

Chuckling, she beams at me. “If you hadn’t made it so clear you’re gay, I’d almost scoop you up just to get my father off my case. I’ll forgive you. If you dance with me.”

“Do you want me to be killed?” I hide the grimace, but the panic that has to be in my eyes can’t be pushed down.

“I’ll manage Papa. Now, come dance. Everyone else here has too much of an agenda—usually me. You’re at least safe.”

Snorting softly, I wonder what she’d think if she knew I planned to kill her beloved papa. I hope I don’t need to kill her, but leaving her alive merely invites vengeance, and fuck knows I’ve seen how that goes. Do not need a repeat.

I bow to her before leading her to the dance floor. We join the others seamlessly, the practice Il Padrone’s aunt insisted on at least made this easier. Most of all, I make sure to keep a very healthy distance between the two of us. The last thing I need is to give Sergio ideas, whether it’s wedding bells or a fucking casket.

As soon as the dance ends, I make my escape. Thankfully, Kari must be in a good mood as she merely rolls her eyes at me playfully. If anyone here gives me vibes of home, it’s her. Mainly because I think she’s far too similar to Dr. Ranlen. Those two must never meet; they’d probably have me dead and buried within an hour.

From the glare Teo singes me with, I’m still on his shitlist as well. Sighing, I make it to the edge of the floor and lean against a wall. There’s no way I can leave quite yet, but fuck. All I want is to get out of here, to be free of the sickening rage that exists deep inside me, that I smother daily, hell each fucking second that I’m forced to interact with these people. Even the ones who turn me on for some sick, twisted reason.

I’m so entranced in my thoughts, that when Dominic taps on my shoulder, I’m far more startled than I should be. From his snort, I don’t hide it either.

“And what exactly are you dreaming of, little bunny?”

Fury coats me, but I shut it down, unwilling to give in to it. That damn nickname…

I force a smile as I respond, “I’m merely enjoying the wonderful party your Boss is hosting. It’s quite an honor to be invited.”

Dominic’s lips twist into a grimace. “Right. So we’re starting it off with a lie.”

“I—”

Dominic waves his hand, cutting me off. “Never mind. Just follow me. Sergio wants to have a discussion.”

Swallowing, I fall into line. I’m unsure why he’d take time away from his guests, but I’m guessing it’s not a good reason. Hopefully, this isn’t about Kari. Or worse, that he found out why I’m truly here.

I’m surprised when we enter an office. Aside from his throne room, I’ve really only interacted with Sergio when there’s been an occasional dinner. Hell, I’m not even sure what the fuck he does on a daily basis. From my perspective, it must not be much, considering how busy Teo and Dominic are. He certainly doesn’t lead from the front.

My gaze wanders around the room, and I suppress my distaste of the garish decorations. Fuck, most of it looks bedazzled. Worse is the sinking feeling when I notice the Martelli Crest. It’s not as pronounced as the one Il Padrone has in his office. This one is far less imposing. As I stare at it, I note that the motto is completely different. I don’t have time to catch which words they’re using as Sergio interrupts my perusal.

“Luca! Welcome to my office. Not many get a chance to see it,” Sergio exclaims loudly, like a joker instead of the king he appears to have styled himself after.

“It’s an honor to be invited in,” I reply smoothly. “I just congratulated you on such a wonderful party.”

Sergio grins, his eyes just a touch too unfocused. Likely from whatever alcohol he’s been imbibing.

“Thank you. It was good to see you dancing… are you sure that you aren’t swayed at all?”

Dominic makes a sound, likely an aborted laugh. Because fuck. This situation is far from hilarious to me, which is probably what amuses him so much.

“No, that’s not a possibility. Nor would I be nearly good enough for your daughter, especially as a Second.”

“I suppose that’s true, and I would hate for her to be so far away,” Sergio allows before sighing. “It would figure after what happened to my cousin he’d draw people of that persuasion, but I know he’s strong despite it.

“After all, he survived what many never would have. And you! I admit, I had some doubts at first, but I should have known my cousin learned well while he was here.

“You’ve impressed Dominic. And because of that, I’m going to let you start seeing more of the business.

“So far, you’ve seen our merchandise, and while training will remain off-limits, both Dominic and I agree that you should be able to handle meeting some of the suppliers and clients. The suppliers will especially be useful to you.”