Page 139 of The Enforcer

“They can wait. We are allowed to enjoy the spoils of war.” I noticed Valencia had stopped, turning slightly and beckoning me with a single finger. “Besides, I do have a beautiful woman to enjoy.”

“Go for it, boss. I’ll be watching out. By the way, nice car. Love it.”

“Maybe she’ll allow you to drive it one day.”

Forever my soldier. I headed toward her, quickly scanning the area in case her second surprise was within sight.

“Now, where is my other gift?” she asked just before we made it to the entrance of the restaurant.

“I think out back. Patience. We’ll begin your training with a nice spanking later today.”

“You are such a beast.”

“Yes, I am and proud of it. Let’s go inside.” I’d seen the restaurant before its opening, but now with it full of people laughing, drinking, and feasting on the amazing food my mother had insisted having a hand with was something special.

“This is amazing. I can’t believe you guys did all this,” Valencia breathed.

“Wait until you see the outdoor space.”

“Look at that dance floor. And the stage. You’re going to have live bands. And several pool tables?”

“What’s a beach bar without booze, billiards, and bands?” I teased.

She elbowed me in the ribs as I pushed our way through the crowd. Several people lifted their glass or waved as we passed. The guest list had been checked and rechecked. The people invited were considered friends. This had nothing to do with business.

Other than how much money we’d eventually make.

I laughed as I guided her to the back door, immediately moving in front of her before she had a chance to see her other surprise.

“Don’t do that to me. What is it?” Valencia shoved me to the left, forcing herself around me. The other gift I’d arranged stood huddled together.

“Oh, my God. Katrina. Emily! You’re here. I can’t believe it.” She blew me a kiss before scampering away. Both Kara and Willowjoined the group seconds later, shoving a drink into Valencia’s hand. The five women squealed together, hugging and kissing like girls did. I thought it was adorable. Magnum was right there, trying to become the center of attention and within seconds, the furry boy managed to do so. What was it about women and dogs?

Within seconds, I lost sight of them, but I had no worries. We had enough fire and manpower to keep us safe. I tipped my head toward the sunny sky, thanking whatever God had chosen to smile down on me as well as my family.

We’d been lucky.

“I think you need a drink.” The sound of Dimitrios’ voice made me chuckle.

I shifted my attention to the sound, noticing Havros had tagged along with him. At least they hadn’t come empty-handed. With a glass of whiskey in my hand, we headed toward the railing overlooking the beautiful ocean water.

“This could be our biggest goldmine,” Havros said casually as he flanked one side of me, Dimitrios the other.

“Imagine that. A beach bar instead of kink clubs.” I lifted my glass. Keeping the property in the family had been one of our greatest decisions.

“A new brand,” our older brother chimed in.

“Who knew we might end up in the restaurant business.” I laughed softly. There’d been so much going on, so many things happening that it was still tough for any of us to process it all. I noticed Dad was dancing with our mother off to the side, acting as if he hadn’t almost lost his life.

“Incidentally, I heard Arek turned up on the shores of the Hudson with more than one bullet in his brain.”

I turned my head toward Dimitrios. “Handled by Davit or the great Don Coppola?”

“Does it matter?”

I thought about his question. “Actually, not in the least. Let’s not talk shop. We deserve a little fun.”

“He’s right. The two of you need to turn around and look at something the girls did.”

---