Page 31 of Merciless Monster

“No, Elio. Stay there. I can’t protect you here. That fucker almost killed me. I won't put you in harm's way.”

“I’m not a child, Dante. I can take care of myself.”

“I know. But I need you there. You can do some investigating on your side while I cover this area. We don't know who’s in this with Kyle. Please Elio. Do this for me.”

“Fine. I’ll send a team.”

“Okay. The plane is still here. I’ll send it back to you. Fill her up with able bodied men.”

“Stay safe, brother. I won’t lose you to a prick like Kyle.”

“Will do, Elio.”

“I’m sorry, Dante.”

“For what?”

“I was the one pushing you to meet with him. I should have trusted your instincts.”

“It’s not your fault, little brother. Keep Mamma safe. Tell Bruno I need him too.”

“They’ll be on the flight as soon as the plane gets here.”

“Thanks, Bro.”

* * *

I’m in the bath when Mia gets back. She has a shopping bag in her hands.

“I got you a few things. I thought about you in my sweatpants and couldn’t stop giggling.”

“Hey, I wouldn’t mind getting into your pants, but not literally.”

“Yeah, I figured. I bought you a pair of jeans and a few shirts. Oh, and sneakers. I figure your dress shoes would look a little odd with the outfit.”

“Are you always this thoughtful?”

“Well, my motives aren’t totally altruistic. I refuse to be seen out with a man dressed in a woman’s pants and Italian dress shoes. Call me a snob if you must.”

“You’re cute.”

“Did you get hold of your brother?”

“Yeah. Thanks.”

“What are your plans?”

“I was thinking of sticking around for a while.”

Mia smiles. I can tell that my news pleases her. I have to be honest with myself. Kyle isn’t my only motivation for lingering in LA. I’m not ready to say goodbye to her again. Not just yet.

“In fact, I could use your help. If that’s okay.”

“Of course. What can I do?”

“I’m going to need a place to stay. I thought you could come with me and help me decide.”

Is she disappointed? Did she assume that I would stay with her? I couldn’t impose like that. She has a kid. Motherhood is hard enough without a houseguest who attracts trouble.

---