Page 11 of Charity's Torment

He threw his thumb over his shoulder towards his guard. “Yes. Giovanni is keeping tabs.”

“Okay, well, he’s missing. I found his apartment destroyed. I think someone is selling to him again.” It was a theory, but I was positive I was correct. Josh was doing good for a while there. It would explain his sudden drop off the planet. I mean, he struggled these last few years, but he didn’t have any dealers to go to for relapse. Unless he bummed it off his junkie friends, which he’s done a few times.

“You know anything about this, Giovanni?” Luca asked.

“He was fine a few days ago,” he said, shrugging.

“If his apartment is ruined, it could indicate he owed someone again. How do you know that means he’s using?” Nico asked.

“It’s just a feeling.”

“Just know that you are accusing one of ours of defying me. You better be damn certain and have proof,” Luca said, pointing his finger at me. “You know what happens when someone betrays me.”

I nodded. I was the one who doled out the punishment. “I’ll find the proof.” I grinned.

“You aren’t allowed to torture them without proof, Charity,” said Luca.

My grin slipped from my lips. “How do you want me to find out then?”

“Use your imagination.”

I smiled at the thoughts that flittered through.

“No. Wipe that smirk from your face and forget what you’re thinking. Get creative with your words.”

I frowned, losing all my excitement. “Can I bring Max?”

I could take care of it, but I was Luca’s best-kept secret. That meant I was just a pretty face that hung around Luca, except to those in the upper ranks. Whenever someone came to know me, they never made it out to tell anyone about me. Max didn’t need to command respect, everyone knew and feared him.

Luca nodded and said, “Keep her safe, Max.”

I laughed. These men have suddenly lost their minds and forgotten who I’ve been for the last six years.

“What is with you three? Compliments from them, and now, you think I’m helpless.”

I observed Giovanni glance away and shake his head. Glaring, I looked at everyone else. What was I missing here?

“Go to Rico’s place first,” Luca said, ignoring my analysis. “He’ll put you in contact with Josh’s previous dealer. Keep me informed.”

Max nods, and we settle back in the golf cart. “Oh… and Charity?”

“Yes?” I twisted to peer at him.

“You better pray I get it in the hole next putt because I’ll be taking the score out on you.”

I interlaced my fingers and prayed aloud, “Lord in Heaven, please grab Luca’s balls and help him find this illusive hole he so desires.” I opened one eye and saw the smirk before he walked away.

Max sped the golf cart back to our vehicles, and we damn near crashed into the others when he parked it. “You shouldn’t tease him like that.”

“I just can’t help it sometimes. He’s just so damn cute when he’s mad,” I said, smashing my cheeks together while speaking in a kid’s voice. It was true. I enjoyed pressing Luca’s buttons. Sometimes, the consequences were worth it.

“You’re crazy.” He laughed.

“I’ve been called worse.”

“My car or yours?” he asked.

“Yours. Do you know where Rico is?”

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