Page 41 of Dangerous Intent

I looked over.

Lorenzo sauntered toward us. “You people always find a way to make things interesting, don’t you?”

I didn’t expect to see him in New York. I thought that since I had handed over the missing shipment and my father eliminated Gian, Lorenzo and I were even.

“What are you doing here?” I asked as I shook his hand.

Something told me our business was far from over. Lorenzo wouldn’t be in New York if his cartel didn’t want something that only I could deliver.

“I’m about to make things even more interesting,” he said.

TEN

Lissia

Lorenzo’s presenceunsettled me or maybe it was the encounter with Danny, my father’s death, or Nico leaving. Any of those events would be enough to send me running to my therapist. But I couldn’t help shake the feeling that this uncertainty was something else entirely.

“Hey.” I let go of Marchello’s hand and gave Lorenzo a hug.

“Hello, sweetie.” He kissed the top of my head. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you.” It was still awkward when people offered their condolences. I wasn’t sure how to process the loss of my father given how we had left things before his death.

“I apologize for not being there for the funeral.” He released me from his hold.

“That’s okay.” I didn’t believe Lorenzo felt much sympathy that my father was gone, but he genuinely cared for me. “The flowers you sent were beautiful.”

“I also want to extend my congratulations on your recent nuptials.” He glanced at Marchello. “I trust you’re taking very good care of your stunning bride.”

Marchello said, “I’m doing my best.”

“Does that mean she’s not cooperating?” Lorenzo smirked. “How shocking.”

I hooked my arm in Marchello’s. “I’m doing the best I can. My husband has a lot of patience when it comes to me.”

“You’re worth it.” Lorenzo winked. “Let me know if he steps out of line. I’ll take care of him.”

“What brings you here?” I asked. “I have a feeling this isn’t a social call.”

“I have an opportunity I’d like to discuss with your husband.”

“Ricardo is here.” Marchello nodded toward the bar. “Why don’t you go keep him company?”

“Are you trying to get rid of me?” I asked.

“Not at all,” Lorenzo said. “But I do have some business to discuss. Can you give us a few minutes?”

“Is it dangerous business?” The unsettled sensation in my gut intensified.

“Lissia.” Marchello pressed his lips together and gave me theI’m not in the mood for your nonsenselook.He pointed toward the bar. “Ricardo. Go.”

“I’ll leave you to it.” I kissed Marchello’s cheek.

“Don’t leave that bar area,” Marchello said. “Because I’m not as patient with you as you think.”

“I won’t.” I waved goodbye before scampering off. Whatever Marchello and Lorenzo had to discuss wasn’t my concern. At least not at the moment.

“How’s it going?” Ricardo asked as I walked toward him.

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