Page 56 of Highball and Chain

Sitting back, she grew quiet. “Are you moving drugs through Enzo’s?”

“I honestly don’t know what is in the shipments.” I pulled into my parents’ driveway and punched the security code into the panel.

“I don’t like it. I don’t want to work for a company involved in anything close to illegal.”

My mouth went dry. “Does this change the way you feel about me?”

“About you as a person, no. But I’m freaked out you would even consider taking your father’s position.”

Turning to face her, I took her hands in mine. “Do you remember the way the people in Comiso reacted to seeing my family?”

“Yes. They treated you like rock stars.”

“It’s not because we are part of the Cosa Nostra, it’s because my family has given countless dollars to the community. We’ve opened schools and hospitals and social service programs that make a difference in people’s lives. More than that, we protect them. If the Marchionnis leave Sicily, the next family who takes over may not be as generous.”

“You’re telling me you’re a mobster with a heart of gold?” She frowned. “The money and power and prestige mean nothing to you?”

“I won’t lie, those things are nice to have.” I released her hands. “But this is all a moot point. My father will never allow me to take over, nor will Gabe.”

“I get it now. I do. But after what happened in Sicily, I’m scared for you and the rest of your family.” She brushed my hair from my eyes. “Maybe you could find a way to continue to support the community without going to the dark side?”

“In a perfect world, that would be my dream.”

“The world doesn’t have to be perfect to have dreams, Enzo.” She smiled. “But we should get out of the car. The bodyguards are getting restless, and I have to start looking for a job.”

“How do you feel about taking a day to relax before we return to the real world? Just us. No interruptions.”

“I’ll have to check my schedule.” Shanna stepped out of the car and stared as the gate closed behind us.

I’d lived in the house since grade-school. The white stone walls and security cameras didn’t bother me. They were a part of life, but I could understand how they might make one feel trapped.

“It looks a lot different without a party going on.” She forced a smile.

I pulled her into an embrace. “We’ll stay here tonight. If you’re still uncomfortable tomorrow, we’ll go to my place in the Quarter. Okay?”

“Thanks. I’d like that.” This time, her smile brightened her eyes.

Hildie, my mother’s housekeeper and my former nanny, met us at the front door. The woman was as old as my folks but looked twice their age. Bringing up six rambunctious boys had taken its toll.

“Hildie, this is my friend, Shanna. Shanna, this is Hildie. She’s worked for my family for as long as I can remember. She pretty much raised us.”

Hildie smiled and sandwiched Shanna’s hand in hers. “Welcome. I’m so happy to see you again.”

“Nice to see you, too.”

I felt like an ass. “Forgive me. I forgot the two of you met the night of the gala.”

“Nothing to forgive, but it’s nice to see you using some of the manners I taught you.” She winked at Shanna. “You must be good for him.”

“He’s good for me too.”

Ignoring Hildie’s knowing look, I set my hand on the small of Shanna’s back and led her into the house. “Home sweet home.”

She stopped in the foyer and took a look around at the gleaming white marble, white couches, white lilies on the entryway table. “I can’t imagine growing up here.”

“The formal rooms are a bit sterile for my tastes. Come on—let me show you the den.” I dropped our bags near the door.

Hildie took a step forward but I held up my hand.

---