Page 40 of Ruthless Mafia Daddy

It’s been three weeks since we spent the night together, and I’ve spent every single moment thinking about her.

It’s clear she blocked my number after I called, but I’m glad. She should avoid me at all costs. I’m not a good person, and I’m definitely not good enough for her.

She didn’t go to the police or told anyone about what she overheard that night. That both puzzles and amazes me.

Yet, I need to ensure she’ll keep her mouth shut, no matter the cost. So, if Lila won’t answer my calls, I guess I’ll have to get a little more creative…

Because my family is at stake here, and I will protect them no matter what.

Max Mason leans back in his chair. “I was surprised when I saw this meeting in my calendar.”

He’s everything I pictured Lila’s boss to be—middle-aged, wearing a some-what expensive suit which has been poorly tailored, and with graying hair that’s thinning around the temples. A sure sign of a man who’s unhappy and unfulfilled.

“What can I do for you, Mr. De Luca?”

I keep my face neutral, crossing an ankle over a knee as I glance around the spacious office.

It’s varying shades of gray, with a few faux plants and a big window behind the desk looking out over central park.

“My company has been looking into taking over a packaging company such as Mason’s International for some time. I’ve just been yet to find a fit.”

“And what is it that your company does?”

“Imports and exports.” I keep my expression almost bored.

Max narrows his eyes.

“I appreciate your interest in my company, but it’s a family business. I couldn’t sell even if I wanted to.”

I was expecting this answer, so I uncross my legs and lean forward, glancing at the framed picture on Max’s desk of three young kids—two girls and a boy. “Are they yours?”

Max nods.

“Cute kids.” Not that I notice either way. I have little interest in them. In kids in general. The thought of someone using my kids as a way to get to me has my blood running cold.

I would never risk their lives because of my work.

“Thanks.”

“Are you expecting them to grow up and take over this company after they graduate from college?”

“Uh… I guess?” Max stumbles.

“You don’t seem so sure.”

“It’s what I did, and my father before that.”

“What’s your son into right now?” I never normally take such time over convincing someone to sell their company to me, but I need to make this a smooth transition. I can’t risk spooking him.

“Soccer. He wants to play professionally. But he’s eight, so who knows…”

“Supportive,” I mutter.

Max narrows his eyes. “Excuse me?”

“If you asked him right now if he wanted to run a company that sold packaging supplies, what do you think he’d say?”

Max chuckles, glancing fondly at the picture on his desk. “He’d tell me to get lost.”

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