Page 61 of Merciless Monster

“You don’t look happy.”

“I’m not. May I speak candidly, cousin?”

“You mean up until now you’ve been holding back?” I smirk.

Gina gives me a wry smile.

“Please, Gina. Feel free to speak your mind.”

“I know that you’re the Don. That position comes with a crap load of danger. All I’m saying is that I don’t think that Mia is suited to your world. I don’t want to see her hurt, Dante. I must insist that you come clean with her. Tell her the whole truth. That’s my point.”

I stare over Gina’s shoulder at the people passing on the street outside. Every one of them has a story to tell. I wonder what they would think if I knew my story. Would they run? Will Mia?

“What was it you were hoping to get from me, Dante?”

“I was hoping to get some more insight into Mia’s life and situation. You know her better than anyone.”

“I know she loves you. What you do with that is up to you. I do wish that you weren’t in the mafia. I don’t want to see my best friend hurt.”

“I’m not going to hurt her, Gina.”

“I’m sure you have no intention of doing so. It’s a pity the same can’t be said for the people who hate you?”

* * *

“I’m going to tell her.”

“Are you sure that’s wise, Dante?”

“I have to, Elio. I can’t keep hiding the truth from the woman I love. I know you know what I’m talking about. You wouldn’t lie to Lisa, would you?”

“It’s not the same. Lisa knew who I was from the start. Mia is American. She may not understand.”

“It’s a chance I have to take. Angelo is my son. I’m not going to abandon him or his mother.”

“All I’m saying, brother, is think carefully about this before you act.”

“I will. Have you found out anything about who was helping Kyle?”

“No. Whoever it was, has fallen off the planet. I have a feeling it was someone with serious connections.”

“Yeah, well that someone better stay down. I got to Kyle, and I’ll get to them, too.”

“When are you coming home, Dante?”

“Any day now. I have to talk to Mia.”

“Okay. Don’t take too long.”

“I won’t.”

It’s a beautiful evening, so I move outside to the pool area for a bit of fresh air. Angelo and Splash are occupying themselves in the swimming pool. Mia is in her pottery studio. She’s made a few bowls and plates and I must say, she does have a knack for this pottery thing.

I’m sorry to leave this lifestyle behind. It’s been very cathartic. But real life is waiting for me back in Rome. That’s where I belong. I’m good at what I do. My family needs me. I’ll have to convince Mia that she belongs with me.

Come on, Dante. You command an army of men. Surely you can convince the woman you love to follow you.

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