AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I squeeze his hand back and look at Maxim.
Maxim’s blue eyes seem to shine and sparkle like the lake in the sunlight. He’s not smiling—but a calm certainty radiates from him like waves lapping against the shore.
We’re doing this.
Papa will die, and my brothers will take control of the Bastone family and all its properties.
Then I can make sure all of my girls are safe.
I walk away from Enzo and rejoin Maxim. He puts an arm protectively across my shoulders as my brothers come together. Santo puts a hand on Enzo’s shoulder, and Franco nods at him. Enzo puts on a brave smile and nods back.
“We’re in agreement then,” Maxim says, looking at each of my brothers in turn. “Whether we kill your father or not is entirely your decision. However, you need to get me close to him. From there, I will do the rest.”
“We’re in agreement,” Enzo says. He approaches and holds out a hand.
Maxim steps forward. He reaches out and takes Enzo’s palm. They shake, both men staring into each other’s eyes.
“I’m glad we’re on the same side,” Maxim says.
“I am too. But I want to ask one thing.”
“Go ahead.”
“Make it quick. Don’t make him suffer.”
Maxim nods once. “It will be fast.”
“Good.” Enzo releases Maxim’s hand.
Maxim shakes with Santo and Franco in turn. “The deal is sealed,” Santo says, forcing a tight grin onto his lips. “Now I guess we just have to commit a little light patricide.”
“Don’t be an asshole,” Franco says, and my three brothers walk off together.
“We’ll be in touch soon,” Enzo says over his shoulder.
“Two days,” Maxim replies. “I don’t have any longer. Two days and we make our move.”
Enzo nods and waves. I wave back and Maxim returns to my side.
We watch them walk away in silence. The quiet and comfort of the lake returns and I breathe fresh air deep into my lungs.
“It’s really happening.”
“Yes, it’s happening. I understand you have some complicated feelings about it and I can’t blame you.”
“He’s my father. Even after everything.”
“But you’re doing the right thing.”
“I know.” I lean my head on his shoulder and he hugs me close. “My brothers will be happier after it’s done. They’ll be safer. I just hope Enzo can forgive himself one day.”
“They’re stronger than you give them credit for. Now come, let’s get you back to the house. It’s been nearly two hours since I saw you naked, and I’m not sure I can go much longer.”
“You’re a pig,” I say, grinning as he steers me toward the parking lot.
Chapter30
Maxim
