Page 65 of Scarlet Angel

“Influence.”

“What does that mean?”

“The world’s too complicated to control. There are too many disparate factors. But the collective includes leaders in all powerhouse industries. They own politicians and statesmen. Police. Esquires. Control is elusive. Influence obtainable.”

“And what do you use that influence for? To grow your business?”

“To maintain market stability.” My hand travels along the curve of her waist.

“How do you control the criminal organizations?”

“Again, there’s no control. It’s influence. We scratch each other’s backs.”

“But Uncle Alessio viewed the syndicate as powerful.”

“We have more connections than the Lupi Grigi. Across more industries on a global scale. More government leaders.”

“And you sell arms?”

“I facilitate deals. I told you this.”

“You’re a broker?”

“Of sorts.”

“Do you deal in drugs?”

“No…” The answer is automatic, but it’s not true. “I have a small marijuana business. An investor, really. I have my fingers in many businesses. I’d like to have my fingers in you.”

She grinds her hips willfully against me, and my eyes flutter closed. Christ, dry-humping never felt so good. She takes my hand and places it over something soft. My eyes snap open, and I can hardly believe what I’m seeing. She placed my hand on her breast.

“Do you break the law?”

“When necessary.”

“Do you kill?”

“When necessary.” I squeeze her breast, but she’s in this contraption, and there’s too much material…

“Why do you want to bring down the Lupi Grigi?”

“They targeted Lina.” My nostrils flare as I snarl, “My sister.”

“So, you’re like Massimo.”

“I’m nothing like that Neanderthal. He goes after individuals with a short-sighted end. I’m going after the organization, and they’ll rot in prison, a fate worse than death.”

“When you finish, what do you intend to do with me?”

“Shag you as often as you’ll let me.”

She giggles. A lovely sound. I can’t seem to look at her face because I’ve got my hand on her boob and I’m struggling with the brassiere so I can tweak her nipple.

“Seriously.”

“I’m quite serious. Can I?” I move my hand, and it seems to take so much effort, but I lower it and reach up under her dress, and there…ah…skin. Smooth, satiny, heavenly skin.

“If put to the wire, would you turn me in?”

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