Page 66 of Carnal

I'm officially fucked in the head.

I put the tables back where they belong and wait for Pina to reappear. Several minutes pass until she struts toward me with Danika on her heels.

"Miss me?" I tease.

Instead of sitting down, Pina ignores me and goes into the other room. The door shuts, and I glance at Danika. "She's super pissed, isn't she?"

Danika bites on her smile then shrugs. "Sorry, boss. I can't comment on that."

"No? Then what did you discuss?"

Danika's eyes widen. "She asked me if I was happy with you or if I'd like to join Dante's crew since his flight attendant is retiring soon."

My pulse increases. Danika's been with me for years. She's discreet, works hard, and is perfect at her job. I study her closely, try to stay cool, and ask, "And what did you tell her?"

She smiles, replying, "I said thanks for the offer, but I'll be staying here for as long as you're willing to employ me."

Relief fills me. I shouldn't be surprised, but no one has ever tried to steal my staff. I have a hard enough time finding the right men to train for the business. All of my brothers have had someone they hired and put their faith in, only to have those people betray our family. I wish I could say I've never had it happen with men I've chosen, but I can't. The last thing I need is to have Danika, who's always been loyal and discreet, jump ship for Dante.

I sniff hard and nod. "As long as you can work, you've got a position with me, Danika."

"Thank you, Mr. Marino. Is there anything else I can get for you?" she asks, then picks up my empty bottle.

"No, thanks," I reply, wait for her to leave, then sit back in my chair and stare out into the darkness. My heart rate finally returns to normal, and I pull my phone out of my pocket. I email my accountant.

Janine,

Senda twenty-five-thousand-dollar bonus to Danika as soon as you read this. Put on the memo, "Thank you for your continued service."

Sincerely,

Tristano Marino

I tossmy phone in my pocket then head into the next room. Pina's sprawled across the couch, reading a fashion magazine. She crosses one ankle over the other, displaying her silky-smooth legs. I say a little prayer of thanks she wore a dress. I lift her legs, slide under them, then warn, "Don't ever attempt to steal my staff again. That's not cool and crosses the line."

She doesn't look up from her magazine and casually asks, "How big of a loyalty bonus did you send Danika?"

I freeze, not even breathing.

How does she know I did that? Does she somehow have access to my email?

She drills her eyes into mine. "Well?"

I search for words, finally questioning, "Did you hack into my account?"

She scoffs. "I'm not a hacker, Tristano."

Blood pounds between my ears. "Then how did you know I sent Danika a bonus?"

She glances back at her article and turns the page. She asks, "What do you think Dante does every time you or your brothers attempt to steal me? Hmm?"

My pulse pounds harder. I slide my hand up her thigh until it's cupping her pussy. She inhales sharply, holding her breath. I point out, "That was manipulative."

"Was it ten grand or more?" she inquires.

"More," I confess.

"Hmm." She smiles and then returns to reading.

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