Page 108 of Merciless Monster

“I almost feel sorry for the fool. Any ideas yet on who it is?”

“No. But whoever it is, seems to know an awful lot about me. How else would they know about Mia and Angelo?”

“That is very concerning.”

“They have been watching me since LA. I assume they waited until I was gone to formulate their plan of attack. I should never have left Mia and Angelo alone.”

“How were you to know, Dante? Besides, what were you going to do? Club Mia over the head and drag her to Rome? She needed time. Neither of you is to blame.”

“I guess you’re right. I’m just so frustrated.”

“I understand. But we have a plan. Right?”

“Damn right. I need you to send the jet with a few men in it to the Houston airstrip.”

“Alright.”

“I want this clown to think that I’m onboard. Then, when he attacks, we’ll ambush him. He’ll never see it coming. I have a feeling he’s going to try and get to me as soon as he thinks it’s me getting off the plane. That’s when he’s at his most vulnerable.”

“Are you sure you have enough men and firepower to accomplish this?”

“Absolutely. Bruno’s been rather industrious on this side, using his connections to secure arms and ammunition. I swear that man can make it rain in a drought.”

“Yeah. Makes me glad he’s on our team.”

“Absolutely. How are Mia and Angelo?”

“They’re both fine. Mia’s a little edgy, but she’s a brave woman. She has been much better since I arrived. Or so she says anyway.”

“Good. I can’t imagine what she must have been through when she thought her child was going to die.”

“I can’t imagine. This situation has done damage to all of us. I tell you, Elio. Sometimes I wonder if it’s all worth it.”

“You can’t think like that, Dante. This is our life and we have to live it the best way we can. It’s our family legacy.”

“I’m sorry that you had to postpone your wedding, Elio. I hate that you have to delay it on my account.”

“Don’t worry about the wedding, brother. You would do the same for me, brother.”

“I would.”

“Please tell Lisa I’ll make it up to her.”

“Of course. She sends her love.”

“Thanks. Okay. I’ll send you the details of the times and the men I need you to send via text. Let me know as soon as you’re ready to take off.”

“Will do, brother. Be careful. If they’re watching the house as you suspect, they’ll be looking out for anything off.”

“Well, listen to you, all reconnaissance schooled and all,” I laugh.

“All those years watching and learning from you had to pay off eventually,” Elio chuckles.

“Gotta go. Chat later.”

“Ciao, Dante.”

I text the time and other details to Elio as soon as I end the call. He sends me a thumbs up. I feel better after having spoken to my brother.

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