Page 58 of Shackled By the Mafia Boss

“That's right,” I nod, trying to shake off the distractions. “We need to look at the pattern of these murders. ADARodriguez might just be the latest victim in a string of related crimes.”

“Related how?” Josh challenges, crossing his arms.

“Remember the two killings last month?” I ask, my mind racing to piece together the connections. “The first victim was found with gun and we got an anonymous call it had something to do with the Romano’s. The second murder was the manager of their club in Hell’s Kitchen, and now the ADA in charge of the cases has been beaten to within an inch of his life.”

Taylor leans in, his expression serious. “You think these murders are connected to the ongoing battles between the mafia families?”

“It's plausible,” I exhale. “If the previous murders are any indication, there's a pattern of targeting those associated with high-stakes cases. Someone out there is sending a message and the Romano’s are their target.”

“Who benefits from this chaos?” Josh muses aloud, rubbing his chin.

“Who gains the most from taking out an ADA?”

“The underworld,” I say sharply. “But it's not just about eliminating threats. It's about instilling fear, disrupting investigations, and gaining control. We’re focused on investigating the Romano’s, but the real culprit is out there.”

Taylor nods in agreement. “We need to dig deeper into the Romano’s businesses, and possible threats. Find any links to the other victims and identify common threads. I agree this might be a war between two rival families, but innocent people shouldn’t have to suffer for it.”

“The Romano’s are the big sharks in the city. They’re on top of the food chain. No one would dare to challenge them except the Valentes,” Josh says. He’s kicking an imaginary hole in the sidewalk, both hands shoved in his pockets. Taylor is the only one who doesn’t seem to be affected by the cold.

“Let's not rule out any possibilities,” Taylor suggests, his tone resolute.

“We'll need to canvas the area, talk to witnesses, and follow any leads, no matter how small. We owe it to Rodriguez, and the others, to find out who is responsible for this.”

We spend the whole day scouting the area and looking for evidence and witnesses.

Time rolls by and I'm mentally exhausted when I shut down my computer and gather my belongings to leave the precinct at nine p.m.

“You in for dinner?” Josh asks, holding his briefcase in one hand and a bottle of water in the other.

I gape at him like an idiot, surprised he’s offering. It’s unlike him to invite me to join him for dinner. “Who are you and what did you do with Josh?”

He chuckles. “Well, it could be me who the killer comes for next. I’ve decided to treat you good. At least you can see I get justice if that happens.”

I try to bite back a smile but it slips through. “Trust me, Josh. No one will come after you. You’re not that special.”

He holds his chest, pretending to be in pain. “You really know how to hurt my feelings, Jane.”

“The only thing that’ll be hurt is your stomach when I punch you,” Taylor chimes in. “You having dinner alone tonight, Detective Sullivan?”

“As always.”

“Stay safe. I’ll call you later to see if you got home safe.”

I grin. “Thanks.” I drag my tired eyes back to Josh. “That is how to be a gentleman, you know.”

“I’ll do better,” Josh assures me as Taylor drags him out of the office.

I tidy my desk, throwing the crumpled papers into the wastebin.

I'm about to head out when I see Marcus leaning against the wall outside, hands tucked into his pockets, a warm smile on his face. Instantly, my fatigue dissipates.

“Hey,” he greets me, stepping forward as I approach. “Rough day?”

I nod, offering him a tired smile. I didn’t expect to see him standing outside and waiting for me, but I’m happy to see him regardless. “You have no idea. But seeing you is definitely the highlight.”

He chuckles softly, reaching out to lightly squeeze my shoulder. “Come on, let's get out of here.”

We walk side by side, the chilly evening air nipping at us. Marcus leads me to a sleek black car parked beside mine. As he opens the door for me, I slide into the passenger seat, grateful for the warmth inside. He starts the engine, and soon we're on our way.

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