Page 173 of My Mafia Queen

“There’s a dance workout every Monday and Thursday. Would you be interested in that?”

She jerks upright.

“Why is this the first time I’m hearing about it?”

“Because…”

Smiling, I look at her.

“I didn’t know whether you’d be interested.”

“I am interested.”

“Perfect. You’ll start this coming Monday.”

“Yay,” she says, throwing her hands up in the air and falling back again, grinning happily.

Laughing and shaking my head, I leave her room.

Outside the door, I sigh, relieved that we’ve successfully put away the whole ‘talk about men’ conversation for a few more years.

* * *

CARMINA

I weara fitted strapless black dress with a delicate necklace, earrings, a matching bracelet, and sexy heels when I enter the room.

Two of Damaso’s men have accompanied me lately.

The only time I’m alone is in my sister’s room and Damaso’s suite.

They’re with us, even at the gym or the pool.

I always have his men’s eyes on me.

Although he’s never chided me for disregarding his order and returning to LA in that particular circumstance, he generally expects me to do what he says.

He’s anticipating some major changes in his organization, and even without them, it’s absolutely necessary to be cautious when it comes to our enemies.

Joe’s group went down after their leader’s death, but Damaso assured me this was only temporary.

The Russians haven’t bothered him lately, and that could change at any time––he also said to me.

The business is good, and tonight, the casino is packed with VIP guests.

His eyes meet mine the moment I walk into the room.

He pulls away from a gambling table and signals me to meet him at the bar.

He orders a drink for himself and takes a sip when I pull up to his side.

Smiling, he pivots to me, brings his hand to my face, and kisses my lips.

He smells like cognac, and I almost get dizzy from the liquor and the fresh smell of his aftershave.

His eyes burn with sexual hunger, and I know what that means. We’ll leave early and share passionate moments in the bedroom.

“Things good?” he asks quietly before sipping more liquor.

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