Page 19 of Assassin's Obsession

Someone else is behind this apology. Ugo? Maybe he cares more about the dancers than I thought.

But that last dig was pure Gino.

"Angelo said he would square it."

"Angelo Caruso is a customer, not management."

"Okay." If Gino's waiting for me to say I'm sorry about leaving on Saturday, he'll be disappointed.

"Have you thought any more about taking on more responsibilities?"

That's what he calls selling my ass and mouth.Taking on more responsibilities. What a joke.

"I'm fine with theresponsibilitiesI have."

Gino narrows his eyes but he just flicks his hand toward the door, dismissing me.

I don't linger.

The bouncer who was in charge of the floor last week steps in front of me on my way back to the main room. "Hey, Candi. You got a second?"

He's got a black eye and busted lip that are at least a few days old. Did things get rowdy Saturday after I left? None of the dancers have said anything.

So, probably not. Gossip spreads like an STD without a condom around here.

"I'm due on in a couple."

"Won't take long. Listen." He pauses, then shakes his head. "I'm really sorry about Saturday. I should have got to you before Mr. Caruso. I was closer."

"Then why didn't you?" I ask.

"Gino waved me off. He doesn't like me interfering with the dancers and clients."

"Isn't that your job?" It's looking more and more like I'm going to have to find a different one soon.

"It should be."

"Meaning it's not?"

"Not since Gino took over." He touches his split lip. "But I'll be doing it for you from here on out."

"Why?"

"Because Gino can just fire me. Angelo Caruso can cut off my hands."

"Cut off your hands?" I gasp. "What do you mean?"

"What do you think he did to Ronnie?" The bouncer frowns, looking scared. "Never mind. Forget I said anything. Just don't worry about being safe on the floor, Ms. Candi. I got your back."

"You should have all our backs." Mira would be proud of the scold.

I sound just like her.

"Yeah, I should." He squares his shoulders. "Gino's not my boss. Ugo is."

I don't need the reminder, but maybe he does.

"Okay, well, good." He nods and turns to walk away, favoring his left leg.

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