Page 99 of Dangerous Intent

When I shook Diego’s hand, Dom’s jaw tightened, but what could happen with him standing so close our arms touched?

“You’re mafia royalty in New York City,” he said. “Gian Gallanti’s daughter married Nico Accetti’s son. That’s pretty big news to those of us who follow what’s going on in the American mob.”

“Why are you so familiar with the New York crime syndicate?”

“It’s my business.”

“Let me guess, business you don’t talk about?” I rolled my eyes. “You’re all so mysterious.”

“I can’t reveal all of my secrets tonight.”

“Why aren’t you in the meeting with your associates?”

“Did I say they were my associates?”

“Then why are you here with them?” I asked.

“Lissia,” Dom said. “Let me take you back to the villa.”

“I told Marchello I would wait here.” I took a seat on the half-wall in front of the fountain.

Dom was doing his job, but my instincts were telling me to stay here and wait for Marchello like we agreed on.

“Besides,” I said. “I have a feeling my new friend would like to meet my husband.”

“What makes you think I’m here for your husband?” Diego moved to sit next to me, but before he could get too cozy, Dom edged Diego out and situated himself between us.

“Comfortable?” I nudged Dom’s arm.

“It’s what Marchello would want.” Dom took out his phone. “But please, by all means, continue your conversation with your new friend.”

“Okay.” I leaned forward so that I could see Diego over Dom. “He’s just doing his job.”

“I understand completely.” Diego smirked. “I’ve heard you’re quite the handful.”

“Where would you hear something like that?” I asked.

“You’d be surprised at the places where your name comes up.” He glanced at Dom, then back at me. “You have quite the reputation.”

“That’s funny, because I’ve never heard of you.” I motioned toward him. “I must be a lot more popular than you.”

I gazed around the lobby, trying to determine if there was anything or anyone out of place. I couldn’t tell, but Dom didn’t appear alarmed, so I continued the weird conversation with this cryptic man.

“I guess you could say that.” He crossed his long legs at his ankles. “No one has ever tried to blow up my car before.”

“What?” I whispered.

“I’m going to give you one shot to get up and walk out of here on your own.” Dom stood. “I’d take that shot before you’re not able to walk at all.”

Three men joined us, boxing Dom and me into the small space under the stairs. It seemed a little too claustrophobic.

“Call them off.” I got up and stared at Diego as Dom backed the men away from me. “Or I will barge into my husband’s meeting and tell him you threatened me.”

Adrenaline coursed through my veins with each word that escaped my mouth. I had no idea who I was dealing with, but he was not an ally. That much was apparent.

“It’s okay.” Diego nodded at the men, causing them back up a few inches.

“You should leave,” Dom said. “I don’t want any issues in the middle of this lobby.”

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