AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Theheavyoakdoorcreaks open and I step into the dimly lit office. Shadows dance across the dark wood walls and plush Persian rugs. At the far end, behind an imposing mahogany desk, sits Luca Conti.
Even relaxed in his leather chair, he exudes power. His piercing black eyes fix on me as I approach.
"Stefano,mio amico, come in," his deep voice rumbles.
He's calling me his friend, and my nerves go into overdrive.
I nod, forcing confidence into my stride. My polished loafers sink into the rug with each step. Luca's gaze follows me. My palms grow damp. Does he sense my nerves? I clench my fists and meet his stare.
"It's good to see you, Luca," I say.
My voice sounds steady despite the hammering in my chest.
Luca leans forward, pressing his meaty hands on the desk. His diamond pinky ring flashes under the green glass lamp. "Please, sit."
I settle into the leather chair across from him. The scent of his cigar lingers in the air. I resist the urge to loosen my tie.
Luca studies me, his expression unreadable. The silence presses down. I resist the urge to shift in my seat.
Finally he speaks. "I have an opportunity for you, my friend." His eyes glint. "A chance to prove your worth to the family."
My pulse quickens. Does he know about my doubts, my longing to break free from this life in the mafia? It's not the life I hate, per se, as much as the unnecessary violence it dictates. No, I must stop this self-doubt. This is my chance to step up, to earn Luca's trust. If I move up the ranks, I can actually make a change around here. I meet his gaze and nod.
"Anything for the family, Luca. You know I've been waiting for a chance to prove myself."
He smiles, white teeth flashing against his tanned skin. "Good, good. I like your ambition, Stefano."
He leans back, linking his hands over his stomach. His black silk shirt pulls taut against his barrel chest.
"As you know, we've been looking to expand our enterprise." His voice drops. "The tequila market is ripe for the taking. Acres of untouched agave in Mexico, just waiting for the right investors."
I nod, thoughts racing. The tequila business - it could be our biggest score yet.
"I'm putting you in charge of this operation," Luca continues. "You'll go to Mexico, scout locations, find suppliers and distributors we can work with."
My pulse leaps. He's trusting me with this? Me, not one of the older men?
"You won't regret this, Luca," I say. "I'll make the family proud."
He nods. "See that you do." His eyes bore into mine, sharp and assessing. "Be discreet, but take care of any...obstacles. You'll be representing us. You are the new underboss, after all."
"Of course." My voice comes out steady despite the anticipation buzzing through me.
I glance around the office, taking in the heavy curtains, the marble busts staring down at us. So much history in this room. How many deals has Luca brokered from this grand desk?
I meet his eyes again. "When do I leave?"
"Tonight." He smiles, wolfish. "Private jet's already waiting."
Of course. Luca doesn't waste time.
I stand, adjusting my suit jacket. "I'll start packing."
As I turn to leave, Luca's voice stops me. "Stefano."
I look back. His expression is grave now.
"This is a big opportunity for you. Don't mess it up." His eyes flash. "Capisci?"
