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1
AVERY
Revenge.
They say it will drive a man out of his mind. But what about a woman? We’re supposed to be the fairer sex. Gentle.
Forgiving.
Whoever said that must have been a fool, because there’s nothing gentle about the fury pounding in my veins as I approach the front steps of the Hotel du Cap, the most luxurious location in the South of France. It’s like something from a fairytale, where doormen in brocade vests tip their caps respectfully, and the lobby glitters with ornate chandeliers. The scent of fresh jasmine beckoning me to the back terrace with its stunning views of the manicured lawns and ocean beyond.
It’s a long way from Hell’s Kitchen, that’s for sure. But I’m not here for a vacation.
“You don’t have to do this, Avery.” My companion murmurs beside me. Nero Barretti, head of the most feared mafia organization in New York. I’ve known him since I was a kid, and he’s like a brother to me.
The only person who could understand what’s brought me here tonight.
“Love’s making you soft,” I reply, darting a glance around the lobby. He cut his honeymoon short to be here with me, but as much as I appreciate the moral support, I don’t need a friend right now. I need a coconspirator: the deadly mob boss with blood-stained hands and a heart of stone.
The man who understands what it means to make someone pay.
“Come on.” Nero tries again. “What do you say we call Lily, hop a flight to Paris, and drink champagne at midnight under the Eiffel Tower? You know she’d love to see you.”
For a moment, I try to imagine it. Turning my back on this crazy vendetta of mine to go take a trip with my friends, trying to forget my broken heart by playing tourist instead of preparing myself for battle.
But the picture stays murky. I can’t even imagine it, that’s how deep in this I already am.Funis a foreign word to me now. I’m not capable of smiles or laughter or any good times.
The only pleasure I’ll know is the day I wreak my revenge.
“I’m not changing my mind.” I say firmly. “You, more than anyone, should know why.”
Nero must see the steely determination in my eyes, because he gives a nod. His expression shifts, all business again. “The invite said they’ll be in the private villa.”
I tuck my arm through his and take a deep breath. “Let’s go.”
A staff member escorts us through the manicured gardens, to a rose-colored villa tucked far away from the main hotel. As if the guests are too wealthy and private to even mix with the other five-star clientele.
“Did your guy finish scrubbing my records?” I ask softly as we walk.
Nero nods. “There’s no trace of your old identity anywhere online. I had a guy plant fake papers at City Hall. Your cover will stand up if anyone goes digging around.”
“And you know the part you’re playing tonight?”
“Cocky asshole with a short fuse?” Nero says with a smirk.
I try to swallow back my nerves. “It’s not a joke. If anyone suspects, even for a moment—”
“I know.” He cuts me off. “Don’t worry. I know the stakes.” He pauses, then adds quietly, “Miles was my friend, too.”
The name sends a shudder through my body, but I hold it back. I can’t let his memory distract me or make me weak.
No, I need it to keep fuel me instead. It’s brought me this far, halfway across the world with a furious vengeance pounding in my chest. Planning a fate that would have been unthinkable to me just a few short weeks ago.
But it’s funny what grief can do.
“Mr. Barretti.” A man in an expensive suit greets us at the door. “Welcome to the game.”
Nero nods and leads me inside the villa. It’s lavishly appointed, all gilt and antique furnishings. And the people here tonight… They’re just as luxurious. Fresh off the multi-million-dollar yachts anchored down in the bay, the men casually sporting designer watches on their tanned wrists as they take their seats at the card table, while the women sip champagne and glance sharply at every new arrival.
