Page 11 of Original Sins (Dark Odyssey 6)

“I want the restructure of the resort done by the end of the summer. I need it ready for my daughter’s wedding,” Donny says.

While everyone looks at the images on the screen showing the beautiful resort, I think of this daughter of his.

I knew his son, Dante, but he keeps his daughter hidden so well, I forget she exists. I guess, like most guys in his circles, he keeps family out of business—women in particular.

Dante was a few years younger than me, and he worked alongside his father. Donny was preparing him to take over the business. That was the only reason why I knew about him.

While Georgiou and I were at Donny’s house on Saturday, he told us his daughter would be marrying Peter. We talked about the resort then, and we’re doing it now for the same reason.

Of course, Dad nods his head off.

“That should be no problem,” Dad says. “Carson organizes the contractors. He gets the best, and we have the finest resources.”

Dad sounds like a walking advert for the company.

Donny looks at me because I’ve been quiet the whole time, and I don’t think he’s missed the way Dad always refers to Carson and snubs me. It’s not actually on purpose, although it seems that way to the casual observer. It’s also evident to the said bystander that my old man and I have issues.

He hasn’t spoken to me once. Last month was the first in five years, and that came because of a phone call from Grandfather’s lawyers.

“Is that true,Henry?” Donny purposely directs the question at me. “You guys have the finest? Maybe I just need to hear from a man I trust to confirm that because that’s exactly what I want.”

I smile for the first time today, taking in my father’s defeated expression and Carson’s jealousy. I wish I could relish in both, but I can’t. What gets to me more than I like is the fact that my own father can’t see the good work I’ve done in establishing this connection, but Donny can.

“I assure you, Donny, we do have the finest. Every contractor and supplier has been vetted to ensure they’re using the best materials, and most importantly, they care about their work.”

That’s information I got from my grandfather, and I can see Dad is shocked that I remember those key things about the company.

“That sounds great to me,” Donny replies. “The resort is close to my heart and worth in the billion-dollar region just for its age. It was the first thing my grandfather set up when he moved here from Italy. Even though it stays in the family, I want it to always look its best. It will be my gift to my daughter and Peter once they are married.”

I notice the way Peter’s face brightens at the mention of such a gift. Lucky prick. He’s probably even luckier for marrying into the family.

I’ve heard stories about his ass that have never sat well with me. He’s silent and would appear nonchalant, but I know he can be a ruthless motherfucker if he wants to be. That in itself isn’t a problem.

What I don’t like about him is there’s something off that I can’t put my finger on. It’s hard to read a guy when he doesn’t talk. Harder still when he always has a poker face. It means you can’t spot his tells.

“We promise to look after everything the way you’d like it,” Dad assures Donny.

Carson straightens up. “I’ll send you over a list of the suppliers and contractors we’ll be using so you can feel more assured.”

“I’d like that, thanks.” Donny nods. “I’ll be transferring the money to Henry’s good care later today.”

Dad stiffens at the mention of that. He doesn’t like that I’m handling the money and issuing out the payments to the contractors. But what the fuck else is an accountant supposed to do?

Working with money is my job while they do the rest. I have the same role Grandfather had when he worked here, and I take after him in every sense.

“Fantastic, I guess that’s it then.” Donny claps his hands. “I don’t have any other items of business to discuss.”

Donny gathers up his paperwork, and Peter stands.

“We’ll be in touch when the work begins,” Dad says, rising to shake both men’s hands.

“Great. I suppose I’ll wait to hear from you.” Donny smiles and looks over at me. “Drinks on Friday?”

He’s really laying it on thick. We have no plans beyond today other than going to his daughter’s engagement party in a few months, but that must be something else he’s doing to show his appreciation.

“Absolutely,” I reply.

Donny dips his head and leaves with Peter.

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