Page 88 of Dangerous Intent

“Maybe you’ll have a few hours to try it when we’re in Florida.”

“Probably not,” he sighed. “Are you keeping yourself busy?”

“I am, and I’ve been doing some thinking too.”

“Have you?” He ran his hand through his hair. “Am I going to need a drink for this conversation?”

“I don’t think so.” I kicked off my heels and set my feet in his lap. “I like being here with you. I loved getting dressed this morning and riding into the city with you.”

“I like having you with me.” He rubbed my feet. “It’s always an experience.”

“Right? That’s what I was telling myself.”

“What’s fueling this conversation?” He arched his brow. “And why do I feel like whatever it is, it’s going to be trouble for me?”

“No trouble.” I waved my hand in the air. “I want to work with you.”

“Work with me how?” He gripped my foot a little too hard.

“I’m sure you could find something for me to do.”

“At the dealership?”

“I was thinking a little more hands-on.” I scooted over to him and situated myself into his lap. “I don’t know much about the car business.”

“What is it that you think you know about my other businesses?”

“I’ve picked up some things these past few months.”

“Like what?”

“Like how things work.” I traced my fingers along his manicured beard. “I’m good with people. Look how well I did with Lorenzo. Because of me you have a new alliance.”

“Hmm…” Marchello gazed up at the ceiling. “You were extremely useful in that particular situation.”

“See.”

“And then you got shot.” The low tone in his voice reflected his agitation. “If you want to get a job, I’m all for it, but it will not be as a mafia moll.”

“Mafia moll?” I took my phone out of my pocket and looked up that term. “Well, according to this, I’m already considered a mafia moll. Says right here, a moll is the female companion of a gangster.”

“You’re not working in the organization.” He grabbed my phone and set it on the end table. “End of discussion.”

I may not have liked the violent side of his business, especially after what I had witnessed in my father’s basement, but I did find the negotiation side of it fascinating. I liked learning about the power plays and the strategic methods behind running such an unorthodox business.

“We can revisit this discussion at another time.” I kissed his jaw. “When you’re more open to what I have to offer.”

“Lissia?” He blew out a frustrated breath. “Revisit when I’m more open? That’s never going to happen.”

“Can I still renovate the club?” I asked.Baby steps.

“Your time will be better spent focused on the club. Milo is eager to get it up and running.”

“I have something else I want to run by you.”

“Of course you do.” He shook his head. “I’m afraid to ask what it is.”

“I have exceptional ideas.”

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