Page 69 of Reckless Royalty

I can barely look at him without my heart racing, so I focus on the path ahead, on the huge building looming in front of us. Mihai hasn’t said much, but the tension radiating off him is unmistakable.

“My father arrived last night but wanted us to be rested for this,” he says, but I can pick up on the anxiety in his tone. I wonder if this news will be worth something to them.

When we step inside, I notice the place is different from the other suites. This is something older with high ceilings, dark wood, and a faint scent of leather and cigars that seems ingrained in the walls. Mihai stays close, guiding me to a lounge area, and we both sit down just as the door opens.

Ion Vasile walks in, and I still can’t get over how something about his presence seems so warm. He’s got that rare, grandfatherly charm that could put anyone at ease, even though I know exactly who and what he is.

Mihai stands to greet him, and Ion pulls him into a hug—the kind of embrace that speaks of a closeness most people wouldn’t associate with a mafia family. Ion’s gaze shifts to me, a gentle smile spreading across his face.

“Madison,” he says warmly, stepping closer.

I smile and get to my feet, feeling my nerves simmer down just a little. “Mr. Vasile. Thank you for making time to see me.”

Ion chuckles, his gaze flickering to Mihai. “Ah, well, my son has told me you’re rather persuasive.”

Mihai rolls his eyes but smirks, looking both proud and amused. “Didn’t take much, really.”

Ion laughs, then gestures for us to sit. Once we’re settled, he leans forward, his expression turning more serious, though there’s still that hint of warmth in his eyes. “I want you to know that whatever you’re able to share with us today, it’s greatly appreciated. You’ve been through a lot, and I don’t take that lightly.”

There’s a warmth in his words, a genuine kindness, and I can feel myself relax just a bit. Mihai watches quietly, and I feel the solid reassurance of his presence.

“I appreciate the opportunity to talk,” I reply, glancing between him and Mihai. “I just want this whole mess to end.”

Ion nods, understanding in his eyes. “Believe me, we all want that. Now, let’s get to it. Tell me, Madison, what exactly did you witness that night?”

I take a deep breath, steadying myself as I recall the details. “My family and I were right next to Santiago and another man. I wasn’t paying attention at first, but they were arguing loudly. I heard Santiago call the other man Xander. He was tall and had long blonde hair. He also had an accent, but I couldn’t place it.”

Ion nods, his face unreadable as I continue.

“They mentioned someone named either Giani or Gia… Gianinni?” I say, focusing on the name, trying to remembereverything clearly. “They were talking about giving information to him before… before the gunman walked in.”

Ion’s face shifts slightly, a flicker of something passing through his eyes. I glance at Mihai, who’s now leaning forward, his brow furrowed. Clearly, the name rings a bell.

“Santiago didn’t seem to trust this Giannini,” I add. “He said that Giannini and someone named Vito were the ones behind sending him to jail but he couldn’t come forward without proof.” I pause, watching their reactions.

Ion’s face darkens further, and Mihai clenches his jaw, muttering something under his breath that I can’t quite catch.

The weight of what I’ve said sinks in, and I realize that this isn’t just valuable information—it’s crucial. Who is Vito, and why did the atmosphere suddenly turn frigid when I said his name?

“There was one more name,” I continue, feeling the importance of getting this all out. “Xander mentioned an Anthony Dawson in Ireland. He said Dawson would help Santiago lay low until things settled.”

Ion lets out a slow breath, his gaze turning thoughtful. “Anthony Dawson… and Giannini along with Vito,” He shares a look with Mihai, something unspoken passing between them.

Mihai looks back at me, his expression intense. “Maddy, are you sure about these names?”

I nod, swallowing hard. “I’m certain. I know it sounds strange, but I remember it clearly. It was the last thing I heard before… before Xander left and the gunman came in.”

Ion sits back, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. “Did you happen to see the gunman, Madison?”

I shake my head. “He came up behind us just as Santiago stood up, and when the gunshots went off we all ducked under the tables. My mind was on my mother and sister, so I wasn’t really focusing on the gunman. Sorry, Mr. Vasile.”

He shakes his head and offers me a tight smile, his eyes snapping to Mihai before landing on me again, his expression softening slightly.

“Madison, what you’ve shared is… invaluable. I can’t begin to tell you how important this information is,” he says.

I offer a small nod, feeling both the weight and relief of having shared this. “I hope it helps. I just…want to feel safe again.”

He nods, his expression serious. “And we will do everything in our power to make that happen. You’ve been through enough, and your courage in coming forward will not be forgotten.”

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