Page 85 of Lord of Punishment

“I know she was. That means the fucker knows she’s alive.”

“And Dillon?”

I hesitated before answering. “I don’t know for certain.”

Miguel took a sip of his drink, allowing me to catch my breath. “This entire situation reeks. Did Connor find out anything before he died?”

“Not that he told me. But Chase had a large deposit to the tune of almost a quarter million. That’s where I’m going to start.” The fact I’d lost another good man continued to fuel the anger. Connor didn’t deserve to die.

“At least the fire did minimal damage.”

“It was a smokescreen and nothing else.”

“Maybe. Or just another warning.” Miguel shook his head. “You’re right that sending Alicia, Georgia, and the kids to a safehouse is a good idea.”

“Yeah, it’s the only choice. I’m going to head to LA after my chat with Chase and I need to ensure she’s protected.”

“I’m coming with you.”

“No, you’re not. You need to stay here.”

“Come on, bud. You need some backup and you know it.” Miguel eyed me carefully.

Yeah, I did. “I don’t know.”

“Andres has already agreed to go and stay along with my two most trusted lieutenants. They will be fine. No one knows where this place is.”

“Why?”

“Because I just bought it,” my brother said, half laughing. “It’s on Kent Island.”

“Unusual.”

“We wanted a family house on the water that wasn’t near a tourist trap. It’s not in my name either.”

The location was perfect, close enough but not a place people would think of.

I glanced at Georgia again, taking a deep breath. “Alright. That’s a good idea. I need to spend a few minutes with Georgia then pack a bag. You need to do the same.”

“I already thought ahead, brother. I tossed a bag into the car when I got your call. I know you too well.”

A part of me wanted to laugh but not only did my bones and muscles ache, my heart did as well. I gave him a nod then headed toward Georgia. Alicia immediately rose to her feet.

“Would you like some more wine?” she asked Georgia.

“I hate to admit it, but I would.” She continued to stroke Dillon’s head as he slept on the pillow positioned on her lap. Max lifted his head from the couch, his tail thumping several times.

I sat down on the other side, peering down at the precious little boy. “How are you holding up?”

“I don’t know what to say, Sabatino. My child was almost killed today. My heart aches but I’m angry. I’m furious with the bastard for doing this, for putting my son in this predicament.”

“I had no idea what might have occurred, or I would never have risked either one of you.”

“You saved our lives. I don’t blame you. I blame the monster who refuses to let me go. He knows I’m alive. That’s why I was targeted.”

“Probably.”

“And Dillon?”

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