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I nod, and he stalks off out of the room as I run a hand through my hair.
Fuck.
It was right on the tip of my tongue, yet I just couldn’t get the words out. Is it better if he hates me now, or hates me a whole lot more when he finds out about us?
And now she’s taking up residence in my house? This is a recipe for disaster.
I know Valentina is going to be over the moon when she hears the news about her ma. Even if there is a long road ahead, we’re all here. Mama Medici is and always has been the backbone of this family.
Speaking of which, I need to call my own mom. She tried me earlier, but I had shit going on.
I know she’s been to the hospital to see Maria, but we keep missing one another.
She’s beside herself with worry.
My cell rings, and I see Valentina’s name pop up. Speak of the devil.
“Hello, Valentina,” I say, taking another sip of my scotch.
“Why are Rocco and Dom here?”
“They’re going to take you to hospital, your mother’s awake. I was just about to call you.”
She gasps. “And she’s all right?”
“From what Angelo said, she is, but he will need to talk to the doctor as there will need to be some adjustments made, Val.”
She goes silent for a second. “Did you say anything to Angelo, about us?”
I run a hand through my hair. “Almost. But, with everything going on, we need to keep everyone safe.” I pause, then add, “Angelo wants you to come and stay at my place.”
I can almost hear the cogs of her brain turning. “Why, has something happened?”
I don’t ever want to lie to Valentina, but I will only keep things from her to protect her from harm. And she doesn’t need to be worrying about people trying to kidnap her, or worse.
“No, but you know how he is, and he thinks this is the best thing for you.”
“God, it’s like he’s handing me to you on a platter,” she says, sounding excited by the prospect.
“Tell me about it. I’ve never felt so guilty.”
“You’ve nothing to feel guilty over, not when we’re both consenting adults.”
I don’t need to tell her that it’s a respect thing. That I’m being dishonest to the man who trusts me the most, and trusts me with his little sister.
“I wish I could have the same positivity.” I can’t say too much with Angelo still being in the house, so I choose now to break the news. “He also wants you to move your office, temporarily, to one of the suites at the casino.”
“What?” she yells. It’s so loud, I pull the phone away from my ear.
“When I get my hearing back, I’ll answer the question.”
“He can’t do that!”
“Well, he actually can, Val, and there’s nothing you can do. I’ll help you move your shit tomorrow.”
“No,” she says. “I’m not going to be bossed around by him.”
“Valentina,” I sigh. “Do you know how many threats there are against your family each and every day? If Angelo thinks there is a threat against you or anyone in this circle, then he will act appropriately.”
