Page 37 of Christmas with the Mafia
I’m shocked when her eyes fill with tears. “I’m sorry, Nico, I judged you harshly.”
For a moment I stare at her in surprise and then, leaning forward, I rap on the divider signaling the driver to stop.
“What are you doing?”
“I’m demonstrating my argument.”
I point to the small door set in a nearby alley, and as Trent opens the door, I say briskly, “Regina would like to take breakfast at the homeless shelter today.”
“I, I–”
She stutters as we head to the door, my guards blockingthe entrance to the alley. As we head inside, the sight of cheap tinsel and the scent of warm baked goods create a warm and inviting place to be.
It’s busy in the main room; it always is as many homeless people from the streets take advantage of a hot breakfast and an opportunity to help themselves to the many clothes rails in the next room. Donations are abundant at this time of the year, and as the server glances up from dishing out the food, they smile their welcome.
“Mr. Ravera, you’re back so soon.”
“Morning Carrie. My fiancée wanted to eat here this morning. Can you spare enough for two?”
“For you, absolutely.”
She smiles warmly at Regina. “Grab a seat and I’ll bring you two coffees and a selection. It won’t take long.”
I guide her to a bench, which means we must squeeze between two men who are wolfing down the food as if it’s going to be taken at any moment. One of them nods respectfully. “Mr. Ravera. Thanks for the food.”
“Is this him?”
A woman opposite says with her mouth full. “Wow, honey, you’re good enough to eat along with the food.”
She laughs loudly, causing Regina to giggle, and it strikes me how ridiculous we look sitting here in designer outfits among people who would prefer a warm padded coat and jeans.
Regina is quiet, but I can tell she’s happy to be here.
As Carrie drops two trays on the table, she winks. “Enjoy.”
As she heads back behind the counter, Regina asks, “She appears to know you very well.”
“She should; I pay her wages.”
“She doesn’t volunteer?”
“No. I pay three members of staff on a full-time contract. They make certain the place is run properly and there is always a warm place for the homeless to spend a few hours in.”
Regina sips her coffee and grins. “It’s good coffee.”
“I know. I liked it so much I bought the production operation. We import it from Brazil along with another brand from Kenya. Most of the hotels, clubs and cafes in New York, if not half of America, buy our products.”
She says nothing and smiles, and as she tears open a pastry, she whispers, “You know, I’m up for being bought out if you fancy adding gift baskets to your portfolio.”
I smile, deciding that now isn’t the time to mention that I own the biggest online store for gift baskets in the US, making me her competitor.
As we eat, we chat to the people around us, and it reminds me how much I prefer their company to anybody dining in the fancy restaurant I booked. I can relax here; there is nobody to impress, and that is why I come here when I need to remind myself what reality looks like.
Nineteen
REGINA
The more timeI spend with Nico, the more I like him. Despite his rather arrogant and surly personality, there is a heart of pure gold beating inside him.
