Page 23 of Carnal

Dante sits on the armrest next to Tristano. "We need to talk about last night."

I don't say anything, not sure what the appropriate response is.

"Rubio said it's not the first time Biagio's approached you at the club," Dante states.

My anxiety diminishes.

Is this what this is about?

Does Dante not know about Tristano and me?

How could I have forgotten about the incident?

My lack of a response upsets Dante. He seethes, "Pina, why didn't you tell me?"

I glance at all the Marinos and catch myself lingering too long on Tristano. I refocus on Dante and clear my throat. "He's hit on me but never touched me until last night."

"You didn't think I deserved to know?" Dante questions in a hurt but authoritative voice.

I take a deep breath. The club has always been a sore spot between Dante and me. I avoid anything to do with it unless necessary. I admit, "You get worked up when we discuss the club. And lots of men from many families say inappropriate things to me. It wasn't a big deal until last night when he grabbed my ass."

Dante's face turns red with anger. He hisses, "Which families?"

I shrug. "All of them. What does it matter? You know how the club works. They've tried to get my attention but never crossed the line."

"You should have told me," Dante insists.

I glance at the ceiling and take a few deep breaths.

Tristano seethes, "She needs to stay out of the club."

I snap my head toward him. "Excuse me?"

"I agree," Gianni asserts.

I keep my gaze on Tristano. "I didn't do anything. Nothing happened."

"But it could have. If Biagio has his eyes on you, it's not safe to put yourself in that scenario," Tristano claims.

Rage floods me.Is this his way of getting back at me for last night?I open my mouth to accuse him then shut it before saying something I'll regret.

"No more club, Pina. And I want a written account of every man from another family who's approached you. I want to know what they said and did," Dante claims.

I turn my focus on him. "You're blowing this out of proportion. And that's impossible. I've been going to the club for years."

"They all know you work for me. You're a Marino. Anyone who's hit on you knows it's out of line," Tristano adds.

I glare at him, seething, "It's a sex club. That's what happens there."

"Pina, you're not allowed back until I say. If I find out you went, I'll have a permanent ban placed on you," Dante states.

Too shocked to respond, I stare at him, speechless. This isn't fair. I've always followed all the club rules.

Dante softens his voice. "As soon as I feel the threat is over, I'll let you know."

"I didn't do anything wrong," I insist.

"No one said you did. But Biagio isn't someone who backs down. If he has his eyes on you, he'll attempt something else," Massimo interjects.

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