Page 106 of Victorious Vice

“No, you never said that.”

“I was a natural. But I grew up the daughter of Mexican-American immigrants. They didn’t believe in guns. They’d seenenough of them during their childhood in Mexico. When I married your father, though, he insisted that I know how to defend myself.”

“And you are okay with that?”

“I was more than okay with that. My parents’ philosophy never made sense to me. If they came from somewhere dangerous, why wouldn’t they want to exercise their right to defend themselves?”

I nod.

“So I let him teach me. He was a good and fair teacher.”

“I know. He taught me.”

“He and I both felt that all of you kids should know how to defend yourselves. We also taught you gun safety.”

“Yes. You did.”

“But the lessons seemed to fall short with Hawk.”

I regard the woman who gave me life. She can’t really think what she’s thinking about her second son. Hawk is one of the best men I know, and an excellent shot.

“Whatever happened, it was an accident.”

“Yes, I suppose?—”

I jerk.

No!

A gunshot.

We’re talking about guns and a fucking gunshot!

Jared jumps up from his chair in the distance.

Mom is gasping, screaming.

I turn toward the door.

The sound came from inside the house.

36

VINNIE

“Why did you bring her here?” Mario asks.

“She was suffering.”

“Yes, but you hate me. You knew bringing her here would make me happy.” He looks into my eyes—really looks into them. “So I’m asking you, Vincent. Why?”

Clearly I was mistaken about why he sent me to Colombia. So I’ll use this to my advantage. “She’s a gift. And I’ll ask for a gift in return.”

“And what is that?”

“You and Serena take off. I’ll get you new IDs, a wonderful place to live out your final years. In return, you turn control of everything over to me.”

His jaw tightens. “So that’s what this is about.”

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