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The sound echoes in the cavernous hall like a death knell, sealing her fate in this gilded prison.
And mine as her reluctant jailer.
The Capo looks up from his desk, raising one eyebrow as I place Isabella's phone and personal documents before him.
"She tried to put up a fight, but I have everything."
I stand rigid, hoping I've regained enough control of my expression to seem emotionless, pushing down the guilt, anger and frustration that still churned in my gut on my way here.
"Excellent." The Capo's eyes gleam with satisfaction as he stands up and places the items in the safe, I only now notice, is open.
For a moment I am stunned. The Capo has never allowed me to see his safe before, this means his trust of me must be growing. But I'm not sure why, with involving us in Isabella's mess I've invited trouble to our doorstep, drawn attention of yet an unknown enemy.
My stomach sinks as he turns back and I catch the cold glimp of metal in his hand. My limbs go numb as thoughts flood my mind.
I should have anticipated this, considering the Capo executed a man, right here, for a lesser infringement. Isabella, who will protect her if I am dead?
The Capo places the pistol on the desk and slides it over to me. "Take this, you'll need it to ensure her safety."
I nearly panick. Can he read my mind? Perplexity written all over my face, the Capo looks up and frowns.
"Are you questioning my orders?" The Capo's eyes narrow dangerously.
"No, of course not," I say quickly, shaking my head to force my mind back into the game. "I just think my skills would be better used elsewhere. We have more than enough men to watch one woman."
"With pursed lips the Capo nods. "You did well, Stefano. I do not yet possess all the details of how you managed to bring the heiress of one of the biggest Tequila manufacturers into our fold, but I am VERY pleased. She's an invaluable asset who, unfortunately, knows too much." He reptilian grin spreads across his face.
"We don't want her to get any ideas into that pretty little head of hers, so you'll see to it hat she only has restricted access to the house staff and the property."I will take no chances with her. I want you on this, Stefano. Don't let me down."
The dismissal is clear. I nod once and take my leave, swallowing down the tightness in my throat, relieved that my head is still in one piece.
There is just a slight bitter taste in my mouth too - Babysitting duty. Just how I always dreamed of advancing in the syndicate.
This is going to be a long assignment.
I find Isabella pacing the room like a caged animal when I return, her green eyes flashing with anger.
"Are you settling in okay?" I ask, gently.
She must be so confused and tired with everything going on.
"Settling in? I feel like a prisoner. Do I have to beg for food around here?"
Her dinner. Of course. "I will have the maid send it up for you," I say, kindly. "There's also intercom there," I point toward her bedside table. "You can dial 9 for housekeeping or the kitchen. For anything else, you can dial 0. But you should know, all calls are recorded and that the phone doesn't connect to any phone numbers. It's only connected to other landlines within the compound."
Her eyes slit into thin sharp edged jagged edges, reflecting her emotions clearly. "Why are you back?" she asks. "What do you want?"
"I am here to tell you that from now, I am to be on your duty."
"My duty?" she asks, tasting the words in her mouth.
I smile, trying to repackage the fact that I've been asked to keep an eye on her in a more welcoming manner. "To just be by your side. Keep you safe, entertained, comfortable. The Capo understands you're new here and that you know no one. He thought you might appreciate a companion while you're here with us, to keep you from getting bored. And of course, if there's anything you might need that can make your stay more comfortable, I'm here to make that happen for you."
"Well, thank you for that 5-star hospitality, then. Now, put your words into action. There is something I want that will make me comfortable," she looks at me.
"Oh?" I ask, giving her a small smile. Good. She's warming up and this whole journey would be so much better once we're more companionable. "Anything. What can I do for you?"
"I want my things back," she snaps. "Now."
