Page 56 of The Merciless King

I shouldn’t be. But I am.

“Are you sure she is in agreement with this?” I ask, unable to let it go.

I can’t help myself.

Perhaps it’s a good thing. If I let it go too easily it would look suspect.

“Do not mistake Gianna’s interest in you for a long-term commitment,” Dante says. “Now about the money. We both know that’s why you are really here.”

Actually, that’s not why I’m here.

I can’t figure out if they think my relationship with her is fake or not.

Either way I’m genuinely irritated by their demand that our relationship ceases once I agree to this partnership.

I nod.

Because I have no choice.

“We’ve been looking for a business partner in Europe. The families are difficult. I never considered a middleman, but I am willing to hear how you work and understand the numbers we could be looking at.” Frank rests an elbow on the table in front of him, tilting his head.

“We will need references and details to ensure we can trust you and that we are on the same page,” Salvatore adds.

Shit.

I have the references. At least I have some in the United States. I’ll have to contact Connor and the team to ensure they are prepared for this so soon.

We all thought this could take weeks.

Who knew an invitation by the daughter of a mobster could open doors this fast?

“That’s not a problem,” I reply. “I don’t align with any one family, as I told you last night. Whatever we agree on, I will need to remain independent.”

There is silence as the three men consider my demand.

Frank taps his fingers on the table and the air grows thick.

I wonder if it was a step too far.

What does it matter?

All of this is bullshit, anyway.

“You will only work with the Baldassare family in the United States.” He finally says and I wriggle my jaw uncomfortably, glancing between the three men for a long moment.

“No.”

My response is a calculated risk. Not that calculated, though, as my nervous system is shaking like a motherfucker.

Dante shakes his head and almost laughs. “No one says ‘no’ to my father.”

Christ, I feel like I’m in The Godfather movie.

“Independent, like I said.” I play with my empty coffee mug as if I’m losing interest. When I glance up, I add, “Last night you told me you didn’t trade in the same...industry.”

When Dante’s brows lift, Frank gives me the most terrifying half smile I’ve ever seen in my life. Then it disappears as quickly as it appears.

Now we are getting down to business.

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