Page 47 of Mafia King: Matteo
I slip into my coat that’s being held before I sling my purse over my shoulder. Mom opens the door for me, and after she’s closed it, I hear it click as the lock slides into place.
I walk to the vehicle that’s running in the driveway. It’s a somber, reflective time for me, and I’m happy to have the long sidewalk to collect my thoughts.
I never knew he did deals on the side. I wonder if this is why he’s been stressed out lately. It also makes me curious if Kirill is aware of what my father has done. He is also loyal to the family, so I assume Dad didn’t tell anyone except Mom.
“I don’t need you to follow the mystery man, Dima,” I say as I enter the SUV.
“Why’s that?”
“It’s over,” I say, for lack of a better excuse. I don’t want to advertise that I’ve been duped.
I’ve had plenty of flings, but this is the first time I feel used. How long did Matteo follow me? How long has he known who I am? How did he discover Dad’s deal?
I have more questions than answers.
“Fine. I’ll inform Kirill,” he says. “I wonder what I’ll be assigned to next,” he comments.
“I don’t know, but you won’t be driving me,” I reply sourly as he pulls onto the road to take us into the city.
“What do you mean?” He looks into the rearview mirrors as he drives to the expressway.
“I have a feeling my next driver will be of Italian descent. I’m engaged to Matteo Borrelli. The Don of the Sicilian syndicate.”
He all but slams on the brakes.
“Get the fuck out of here. What happened? You’re only telling me this now?”
“It just happened,” I replied wistfully. “I’m still adjusting.”
“I wondered who pulled in behind me tonight. The tall dude, right?” His voice is calm, and I am concerned because he was a sitting duck in the vehicle. It could have been a hit team, for god’s sake.
“Correct.” I sigh in relief.
“The man with him had me roll down my window and checked me out before they passed.”
“Did they?” I’m not surprised because men in Matteo’s position always do.
“Yeah, I had an idea he was someone important. Shit, are you okay?” He says, turning briefly in his seat to look at me.
“I appear to be,” I reply.
What choice do I have?
I look at the ring on my finger. It’s heavy. I’m not telling anyone I’m engaged except for Izzy. I just started working, and I don’t want them to think my job is a placeholder until I am married. Besides, I’d feel uncomfortable sharing the news with anyone at work. I’m the new girl in the office. I’m still on probation.
The car is warm, but a chill runs through me. I pull my coat closer to me. I wonder how Matteo had men on me. I thought I was immune to being hurt by the family’s business associates and enemies. Sidovo wasn’t here tonight. He probably doesn’t know this deal was brokered. I find myself at the center of what could be the cause of the next mafia war.
I should be relieved Matteo isn’t my father’s enemy. He had every opportunity to kidnap or kill me for revenge. Instead, Matteo chose not to spill blood.
I have to assume he knows everything about me.
My privacy has been violated. I’ll find a way to even the score for his deception. There were numerous occasions where he could have slipped the words out of his mouth, “Hi, I’m the newest player in the mafia world, and I want to fuck you.”
He thought he was clever and played games with me while keeping his identity a secret. I need answers. I have to take matters into my own hands. I know who he is. He won’t suspect me of having him tailed.
“Dima, don’t tell Kirill anything. I want you to follow Matteo. He’s been my lover, and I’m not in harm’s way. Besides, I suspect my future husband will have an Italian guard on me soon. That protects me, and your time will be free to follow him. Will you help me?”
“Intrigue and stalking? Count me in.” He gives me a funny giggle that reminds me of Uncle Fester in the popular TV series about a family who is dark and sadistic.
