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“Sammy, this is not a good idea,” Lorenzo growled. “It’s too soon.”
“We already knew,” Ariana abruptly interjected with a heavy sigh. “We just wanted to give you the opportunity to tell us yourself.”
“You knew? How, when did you find out, and what’s too soon? Christ, my head is spinning.”
“There are some details you don’t know,” Lorenzo said solemnly. “Matt turned the tables on you initially, then Roland stepped into the picture and took over. That’s one of the reasons Big Mike shot him, but there’s something else you don’t know. Matteus isn’t dead. Mike saved his life.”
“What? Where is he?”
“We’re not sure, but—”
“Stop! I’ve had enough,” she shouted, then turned around and leaned against Nick. “Nick, will you please get me out of here? I’m dizzy and this is all too much.”
“Of course,” he murmured, putting his arms around her. “It’s late,” he announced, raising his voice and looking across at Lorenzo and Ariana. “I know there’s more to talk about, but it can wait.”
“Yes, yes,” Lorenzo agreed. “I know you said we’re welcome to stay, but I booked a suite at the Nobu Ryokan on the beach. We’ll call you in the morning and take things from there.”
“We love you, sweetheart,” Ariana said earnestly, walking quickly across the room and pecking Bianca on the cheek. “We’re so relieved and grateful you’re back with us safe and sound.”
“I love you too, Mom, and honestly, I’m really, really sorry about everything. It was a ridiculous thing for me to do. I feel like an idiot.”
“There’s an old saying, sweetheart; desperate people do desperate things, and I’m sorry you felt that way. Your father and I both are. By the way, I threw some of your things in a bag for you. It’s in the hall.”
“You did? Thank you. I have absolutely nothing. Nick lent me some of his sister’s clothes.”
“Everything will be okay,” her father assured her, kissing her forehead. “We’ll work things out, I promise.”
“Thanks, Dad.”
As Lorenzo and Ariana headed for the front door, Sammy stepped up to say goodbye.
“There is more, Bianca,” he said quietly, “and I promise I’ll tell you tomorrow.”
“But, uh, where are you going to spend the night?”
“Your father has offered me a room at the hotel.”
“Please stay here,” she pleaded softly.
“Yes, stay,” Nick said quickly.
“Uh, sure, and thanks,” Sammy replied gratefully. “I’ll let them know.”
“Are you still dizzy?” Nick asked as Sammy hurried away.
“A bit, but I think it’s because I’m exhausted.”
“You should go to bed. I’ll take Sammy to the guest suite on the other side of the house. It has a small kitchenette that might be handy for him.”
“That sounds good, and you’re right, I need to lie down,” she muttered, surrendering to a yawn. “What about you? Are you okay? You look so serious.”
“Yeah, fine, I just have a lot to think about. After I get Sammy settled, I’ll probably have a drink and ponder a few things. Don’t worry if I don’t join you right away.”
“I won’t, and you should wait here for him. Goodnight, I love you.”
“I love you too, Bianca. Get some rest.”
CHAPTER24
