Page 51 of Bad for You

“What is owed to you?” Aldo asks, circling back to what I said.

“I win fights and do whatever jobs you need me to do. I give you my loyalty, and in return, I find my brother.”

Glenn scoffs, but something changes in Aldo, and I wonder if that something has to do with Valentina.

“Family is invaluable,” he says with sincerity. “A man may have many riches, but without family, he is penniless.”

He speaks from experience.

“What do you know of crystals?”

“Crystals?” I ask in case I misheard him.

But it’s apparent I haven’t when he nods. “Different crystals have their own energies which can align one’s life in all different ways.”

I wait for the punchline, but there is none.

“Have you worked behind a counter?”

I shake my head, unsure if this is code for something.

He reaches into the console and produces a business card.

I accept and silently read over the description.

Aldo Cattaneo—Opal imports and lapidary.

I was right about one thing at least. But crystals, really?

I can’t really imagine Aldo sitting under a full moon in a drum circle while summoning the goddess of health to grant him inner peace.

This has to be a front, and a smart one at that.

“Come to that address tomorrow. Ten a.m. If you’re interested.”

And just like that, I’m dismissed.

I pocket the business card and open the door, but Aldo has one last thing to say before I go.

“Be careful what you’re willing to sacrifice because sometimes the past is best left alone. I’m Aldo, by the way.”

“Lennon,” I finally reveal.

It’s not a warning but free advice, which I assume he doesn’t give out often. I don’t know how I know, but I just do—Aldo and I are going to be great friends.

It’s late by the time I arrive home.

The urge to check in on Valentina, as always, has me heading into the kitchen instead. Opening the fridge, I grab a beer. Tossing the cap into the sink, I throw it back and ponder over tonight’s fucked-up proceedings.

I’m not naive. I know Aldo will test me before he welcomes me into the “family.” I wonder what I’ll have to give up to achieve what I want.

The thought has me downing the rest of the beer.

“You’re home late.”

Gianna making small talk?

This won’t end well.

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