Page 135 of Carnal

Papà motions to his desk.

I gaze down, and it feels like a knife slices through my heart. Photos of Pina doing her daily activities fill the desk. She's working, shopping for groceries, getting in the SUV, and even a few in her condo. I blurt out, "How did he get these?"

Dante picks up a piece of paper and hands it to me. "Motherfuckers need to die. Tonight."

I read the letter.

Dante,

Best wishes on your nuptials.Don't worry, I'll take care of her while you're gone with your new bride.

Biagio

Blood boilshot in my veins. I repeat, "How did he get these photos? Are the office and her house bugged?"

"I just finished scrubbing them. There are no bugs," Luca states.

A chill runs through my body. I claim, "Then we have another traitor."

"No shit," Dante growls.

"Well, who is it?" I demand, getting more agitated every second that passes.

"We're trying to figure that out," Papà answers.

"It's got to be Guido," I accuse.

Papà's eyes widen. "'He's one of Giuseppe's best men."

"Then why did he send him here?" I hurl.

"To help us out," Papà claims.

"Bullshit. He's here, Pina's in danger, and now you're all standing around twiddling your thumbs while he's watching over her." I point at Dante. "I told you not to let him guard her and that I'd continue to monitor her."

"You heard Papà. He's Giuseppe's—"

"I don't give a fuck, Dante! Jesus! You're all blind. I'm going over to Pina's to ensure she's safe." I motion around the room. "All of you are idiots sometimes."

"Watch your mouth," Papà warns.

"Pick that bastard up," I snarl. I leave the office and call her.

"Tristano! Where've you been?" she frets.

"Listen to me. Where is Guido?" I ask.

"In the hallway. Why?"

"Do not let him in. You let no one inside but me, understand?"

Fear laces her voice. "Why? What's going on?"

"I'm leaving the house now. I'll be there soon. Get your gun out of the safe, and if he tries to come inside, shoot him," I order.

"What? Tristano, you're scaring me. What's he done?"

"Promise me you'll do what I say," I bellow.

---