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I’ve been afraid of that. It shouldn’t be important to me. The women in the families often bring profitable ideas to the table and don’t receive any credit. Why should I be any different? I sigh, shifting in the water so I’m sitting up more.
“Are you in the bathtub?”
“Yes.”
“Jesus, woman. What are you trying to do to me?”
That’s a damn good question. I have a better one: what arewedoing? Men like Salvatore are supposed to get married and have kids to carry on their bloodline. Are we headed in that direction, or will I stand back and watch another woman walk down the aisle? Could he watch me marry another?
“I’m taking a bath. Soaking in bubbles that tickle my nipples. Rubbing a soft cloth over my pussy. Thinking of you.”
“I’ll be there in fifteen minutes.”
I burst out laughing, then realize he’s hung up. I suppose the real thing is a thousand times better than my imagination.
20
Salvatore
The casino is full, the families all arriving for the big game. Everyone has a stake in it. In order to play, you have to be willing to sacrifice a piece of your empire. Not some shares in your company or a seat on the board, the whole fucking company, or something of equal value.
“You look sensational,” I compliment Milana, grabbing her arm to make her stop walking.
She takes a deep breath. She’s nervous, and I don’t blame her. Tonight is a big night for her. Although I know my father well enough to know he won’t honor their deal, I still want it to be successful for her.
“Thank you for last night. I needed that.”
I chuckle, releasing my hold on her arm. “You don’t ever have to thank me for an orgasm, Milana.”
Her cheeks blush as she smiles. “Some orgasms deserve a thank you.”
“In that case, thank you.”
She laughs, and for a moment, the stress of tonight isn’t a heavy weight on her shoulders. I wish again that she’d stayed away. She’s too fucking beautiful to be marred by the sins that run deep in this room.
“Are you playing tonight?”
I nod. “Yes. Each family is represented.”
“Hopefully this will bring some peace,” she suggests.
“Not likely. One family is going to win a massive hand. There can’t be peace when there are more losers than winners.”
“Then why play the game?”
“I suppose it’s worth it.”
A noise distracts her, someone calling her name. She politely excuses herself and walks off to a pretty brunette. The game is starting soon, so I need to focus. That’s difficult to do with her around.
Milana Genovese is all-consuming. Her touch lingers on my skin. Her scent is still in the air. Her voice echoes in my ears. I can’t do what needs to be done, consumed with thoughts of her.
Grabbing a glass of wine from a waitress, I head over to the main table. A few players are already seated, discussing business. I opt to stand back, take in my competitors. I’ve been playing cards since I was six years old. The majority of these men are twice my age. Still, they don’t stand a fucking chance. I have one goal: win.
“Lots of competition tonight,” my father states.
“Lots of rewards as well.”
“I trust you won’t disappoint me.”
