Page 124 of Bishop

Great. I slump back into the seat. Just what I need.

My annoyance simmers as I wait for him to approach and round the hood.

He opens the passenger door and lowers himself into the seat with a barely audible groan. “I’m not sure where you plan on going, but I don’t think you’ll get far with three tires.”

He’s not usually one for humor unless he’s trying to soften an approaching blow. This doesn’t bode well.

He glances around the Aston Martin’s interior as if fascinated by the luxury. “It’s a nice car.”

“Your niece has good taste.”

“Does she?” He shoots me a pointed look.

I glower, unwilling to touch the insinuation as I return my chair to the upright position.

“How are you, figlio?” he asks.

“Fine. Najeeb got the location on Adena a few days ago. I’ve had him tracking her ever since. There’s a—”

“That’s not what I asked.”

I clench my teeth and turn my attention out the side window to stare at the house.

“How are you?” he repeats. “I know it must’ve been difficult for you to remain here after you heard of the attack.”

“I’ve been kept occupied,” I mutter.

“So it seems. I’m surprised how protective you are of Abri.”

“I’m not being any more protective than you would’ve demanded for your niece.”

“I have eyes. It’s clear she’s under your skin.”

“Yeah, like a fucking parasite. I’ve never known a woman to be more infuriating.”

“Is that all she is?”

“Jesus Christ.” I drag a rough hand down my face. “Not this shit again. I told you I haven’t fucked her.”

“I already assumed as much. You haven’t slept with a woman for as long as I’ve known you.”

I clench my fists through the punch to the gut. “I guess I’m a fool for assuming you’d given me privacy over the years.”

“I keep an eye on all those I care about. And you’ve always been like a son to me. A son who is now clearly developing feelings for my niece.”

“I’m doing my job. Nothing more.”

He nods slowly. “Then I relieve you of your duty. You can return to D.C. and look after your business interests while Matthew is out of action.”

I shut my mouth, letting the deliberate provocation coast by.

“Your presence upsets her,” he adds. “It’s better for all involved if you leave.”

“You said it yourself—I’m the best man you have.”

“I don’t need the best for this. I already spoke to my sister the day after the shooting. Although hostile, communication has remained open. I’m certain she’ll take another call from me, which will give Abri the opportunity she needs to talk to her mother.” He grabs my wrist and gives it a fatherly squeeze. “Go back home and we can reconvene at a later date regarding Salvatore taking over my position.”

“Adena won’t appreciate you taking her daughter under your wing. She’ll retaliate.”

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