Page 88 of Toxic

"Thirty percent and triple my bonus."

It's my turn to laugh. "You don't ask for more after you've already stated what you want."

"If I take your offer, I'm starting lower next year when I negotiate. And a bonus is risky," she adds.

Bridget's subdivision comes into view. I slow down, annoyed. "Since when have you not received your bonus? I always come through."

"Yeah, well, I'm not looking to tempt fate."

"Way to be a positive-thinking team player," I point out.

"Dante, don't test me on this."

"Don't threaten me, Pina."

"You couldn't survive a week without me," she claims.

I don't argue. It's pointless. "Final offer, Pina. Take it or leave it. Twenty-five percent raise and triple your bonus. It's still way more than what you were asking. Smile and say thank you, world's best boss."

She caves. "Fine."

"Don't sound so ungrateful."

"You know I'm worth the thirty percent."

"That you are. But when your safe is full with more hundred-dollar bills from that bonus, you're going to be happier I'm such an awesome boss. Call Rubio. And I'm not available the rest of the day." I hang up and pull up to the gate.

Tully's guards wave me through. I drive up to the entrance and get out at the same time Bridget and the kids are stepping out of their car.

Bridget's eyes widen in question. Fiona waves and goes inside the house. Sean nods then follows his sister.

I get out and open the passenger door, ordering, "Get in."

"Dante, what are you doing here?" she asks.

"I promised Sean I'd speak with you. Now, get in."

Her head jerks back. "About what?"

I motion to the passenger seat. "As soon as we get out of here, I'll tell you."

She hesitates then gets in. I shut the door and get in the driver's seat. Neither of us says anything. As soon as I get out of the gate and on the part of the road where no one is in view, I pull over. I lean over and kiss her then murmur between her lips, "Are you doing okay, dolcezza?" I slide my tongue back in her mouth before she can answer, holding her head firmly to mine.

For several moments, I forget why I picked her up. It's just Bridget and me.

She pulls back. Worry fills her expression. "Dante, what's going on?"

I caress her cheek. "Nothing to worry about, I promise. Let's go to dinner, and we'll talk."

"Just tell me now."

I start driving again. "Sean wants to box."

"Not happening," she replies.

I glance over at her. "Hear me out, Bridge."

"This isn't your business."

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