Page 67 of The Gangster King

“I see a ring on your hand, Baldassare. But how do we even know your father is really dead?”

I move before anyone can stop me.

My fingers slide from Adelina and my fist is in the air flying toward his face.

Nick, Jono, and Adelina all grab me—the latter less effectively—as they scream at me to stop.

“Dante, no!” she cries, wrapping her arms around my body.

As Nick takes my fist in his shoulder and drops to the floor, I grab Addy.

“Never do that.” I take her face. “I could have hurt you.”

She pants, those big green eyes fully dilated. “They will hurt you if you do anything here. You know the rules.”

I blink at her momentarily.

She cares.

She was protecting me.

Fucking hell.

“Go,” I bark, turning back to her brother. “You are putting your sister in harm's way.

“You did that by bringing her here.” He spits.

“She belongs to me. Do not challenge me.” I growl, sliding my arm around her waist.

“I want my bride, Baldassare. Gianna was promised to me.” His eyes dip to Addy, then back to me. “Deliver her to me before next weekend and I’ll do what I can to talk Carlos into letting you keep Adelina.”

“I’m not a puppy. Fuck you both.” She spit, trying to tug away.

I hold her tight.

He’s trying to negotiate. I don’t need his permission and I’m not negotiating. It’s already starting a war, but I knew that when I carried Addy through my front door and locked her up.

What I need is a plan.

Which is why I need Braxton to answer my call. I visited his parents days ago. Jesus, does that guy not love his family?

I consider that.

No. More like he’s a very clever guy. But so am I.

He will reach me.

Hopefully, before I need to send an even louder message. After tonight, I might have to. Things are getting tense, and time is running out.

Leo and his men leave, and mine step back a few feet, giving us all room to breathe.

My first concern is Addy.

“You okay?” I ask, my hand gliding up her arm.

“Yes. No,” she answers, glancing around, then lifting her eyes to mine. “This is dangerous.”

“You’re safe,” I reply without hesitation. I need her to know that. I will not let anything happen to her. “I promise.”

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