The Enforcer (Vengeful Empire #3)

Chapter 19

CHAPTER 19

C hristos

“Everything is in place.” Nico Pappas was one of Dimitrios’ top soldiers, a man who’d had an extensive military background in his former life. He was a crack shot, teaching other soldiers within the organization his high caliber skills. He was also working with Elias and Havros’ top man, Jonas Chloros to ensure there were no hiccups on the day.

Dimitrios nodded and turned his head toward our father. My dad wasn’t the kind of man to let anxiety rule him. He certainly rarely allowed anyone to know if he was nervous about an event or during discussions with opposing forces.

What I’d noticed were more lines in the man’s face. He was getting older, enjoying his retirement while still keeping a finger in everything we did. But he was also not getting any younger, a fact our mother continued to bring up from time to time.

Which he loathed.

He took a deep breath, eying the room full of men as if commanding an army. His tension would remain in this room. We all knew how important the day was to the entire family. A union brought possibilities, joys and reminders of our past. We were a close family, more so than many friends I’d had over the years.

“We will enjoy the day, gentlemen,” he said. “I don’t want our guests inconvenienced in any way. They have come to enjoy not only a family celebration but also to share in the joy of life in general. We will drink. We will feast. We will laugh. And we will sing. There is to be no violence.”

“And if someone attempts to interrupt our celebration?” I asked.

He was thoughtful in his answer. “Then he or she will be detained. Is the bunker ready?” he asked any of the soldiers standing in the room.

Elias cleared his throat and stepped closer. “Yes, sir. We have accommodations set up for at least thirty if necessary. The location will be heavily guarded.”

Bunker. My father had always kept and maintained a facility of sorts located behind a shop owned by the family. However, it was only large enough to interrogate and deal with a few. Deal with. I laughed internally. How many traitors had my father tortured over the years? Even my two brothers had interrogated their share of those who’d dared betray us.

I’d yet to have the dubious honor. The reason wasn’t because I wasn’t skilled in the old methods of extracting information. I’d been taught at an early age how to use various implements and tools in methods not intended. My abilities with a katana were legendary, which was one reason I was so concerned about the American who’d attempted to use the weapon to end my life.

Dimitrios was right. There were no coincidences in this world.

“Good,” Pops said. “They will be locked down until I deem it the right time to enjoy their company.”

“While I understand you want no violence, Pops,” Dimitrios said, “the men will be armed.”

“Yes, I’m aware. As they should be. Christos. Have you checked the communications systems?”

I nodded. We’d acquired the most sophisticated wireless devices for every soldier’s use during both peaceful times and those of war. They not only allowed for easy communication between all parties wearing them, they also had an untraceable beacon allowing the homebase to track their whereabouts at all times in case of the soldier’s death.

Along with high quality weapons purchased and stored in various secretive locations, we could start a goddamn war if necessary.

“We’re set. Everyone, including myself, will be wearing an earpiece. They are virtually invisible to the naked eye, so our guests won’t be disturbed,” I told everyone.

“Perfect. If there is any sign of danger, take our family to the underground facility immediately. Elias. You’ll be in charge of the guests.” Dimitrios, as the true Godfather of the Night, gave the orders.

“Let’s not expect the worst,” Pops added. “Any news on the whether Mr. Ajernian is attending?”

Davit Ajernian was the Armenian leader, the man not necessarily a friend as he was a brutal thug in our opinion. However, with the chaos in Italy, the smaller countries scrambling to gain more territories, it was important to keep him as an ally. As for Don Coppola, my father now considered him a friend after the alliance made almost a year before.

The old man was good natured, his love of children and strong families giving him an edge as the possible new Godfather of every territory and crime syndicate within Italy. The decision had yet to be made after the death of another prominent Don. That had led to additional unrest.

The politics of the mafia world was endless and just as complex as within any government. Perhaps even more so.

“His administrative assistant called. He is expected to arrive for the reception. He has a prior engagement but is supposedly looking forward to the reception.” Dimitrios grinned. Who didn’t love a good party?

“The rest of the family should be arriving soon,” Pops added.

We had a huge family including several cousins. They’d all arrived for the day. One big happy family.

I didn’t like the odds, although this wasn’t the first time we’d held a huge family gathering and certainly wouldn’t be the last. Still, my instincts were searching for any red flags when there weren’t any.

Yet.

Although every few minutes, I scanned the perimeter after Valencia had sensed we were being watched. Her fascinating abilities, including being an empath, were a reminder not to overlook anything she said.

“Speaking of which,” I said as I glanced at my watch. “Has anyone checked on our mother to ensure everything is going as planned?”

Our father laughed, the sound booming in the room. “You would have heard her by now if things weren’t going exactly so.”

A sharp clanging sound echoed through the house, following by a shrill cry.

“Speak of the devil,” I teased. “I’ll go see what’s going on. The guests are already arriving. Elias, put a smile on your face as you greet them and be discreet about patting them down and taking their weapons.” I wasn’t going to say please.

Elias grumbled. The one rule had already been communicated to every guest, but there were always a few who ignored the rules. We would store their weapons in a safe, and they would be returned to them as they left.

“Fine. Boss.” He hated the meet and greets more than any other soldier. He turned abruptly and headed out and my father couldn’t help but laugh.

“I’ll let you know if the house burns down,” I said in passing as I walked from the room. There was no reason to be nervous today. The morning had dawned with bright sun and only a few clouds in the sky. The weather was perfect with a light breeze.

Mama had outdone herself with decorations, lights and flowers everywhere. Just as she’d done when Dimitrios had married Willow.

Willow popped from a room, heading toward the stairs. She had her baby in her arms and I could tell she was stressed.

“What’s wrong?” I asked her.

She stopped, still jostling Anthony on her hip in her effort to try to calm him. “Do you remember how… interesting it was right before my wedding?”

I laughed. “You mean how stressful.” Mom had fired the caterer right before the event, forcing the family members to become part-time waiters. Willow had even pitched in at her own wedding. Complete with the billowy white dress. “Sadly, I’m certain it’s something you won’t forget.”

Her expression softened. “It was an amazing day, but very stressful. I think a repeat is going to happen. I had to get some air and this little monkey needs some sleep. All. Day. Long.”

At least a part-time nanny had been hired to watch the children. “I’ll see if I can fix things. You know I’m her favorite son.”

She gave me one of her stern looks and I continued laughing. “I wouldn’t worry too much. Valencia is working her magic on your mother. I’m shocked. All that talent. You better scoop her up and keep her before someone else gets their claws into her. Gorgeous picture in the news, by the way.” Her laughter filled the room.

How often had I been teased by everyone in the family about not being married at my ripe old age of thirty-nine? More than I could count. “Very funny. She’s her own woman. You know that already.”

“Yes, I do, and I think she might be the only woman who can steal your heart while controlling you at the same time.”

Now it was my turn to give her a look. She backed away, her mouth pursing. “Just saying.”

She jogged up the stairs and I took my time heading to the entertainment area.

I stood in the doorway again, watching the little bit of magic occurring.

“See. The souffle is not ruined. Now, let me grab the tray of cookies and I can even ice them.”

To see Valencia in a gorgeous dress for the wedding wearing an apron as she attempted to calm my mother was a sight to behold. I didn’t blink, couldn’t take my eyes off her. She was a creation of beauty and everything inside me stirred.

None more than my cock.

We’d shared passion the night before and some would say the time shared in the same bed was a defining moment. I wasn’t certain what to think of any of this right now.

Valencia caught my eye, grinning as well as giving me a nod of approval since I was already in my tuxedo.

“You are such a sweet girl. I will be so happy to have you as my daughter-in-law.” My mother was beaming. She could flip a switch on her emotions in seconds.

I could tell Valencia was completely uncomfortable. “Let’s not put the cart before the horse.” When she sensed my mother was confused at the American expression, she laughed. “That just means we’ve only known each other for a few days. We’re not in a relationship.”

“I know my son. He adores you.”

“Okay, Mom. The guests are arriving and you are the mother of the groom. I think it’s time to allow the caterers to finish their jobs. Don’t you?” I was pointed with her, which was the only way to calm her down.

“Yes, of course.” My mother pushed hair from her face, instantly acting as if the kitchen didn’t matter in the least.

“Now, do you mind if I introduce Valencia to some of our guests?” I still marveled at my mother’s ability to keep the dangerous aspect of the life we lived from invading her home. Her domain.

“Go. Thymitheíte, den eínai kalesméni allá oikogéneia .”

As always, my mother was able to cut through any bullshit. “I’m aware, Mother. Come, my doctor friend.” I waited as Valencia removed her apron, smoothing down her dress.

When I took her by the arm, she gave one last fleeting glance into the kitchen. “What did she say?”

“Oh, just a reminder you weren’t a guest, but family.”

She said nothing as we headed through the house, using the arched French doors in the living room to head outside. “I like your family,” she said almost as if she hadn’t been certain up to this point.

“And they like you.”

Before we made it off the deck, Valencia turned toward me, placing her hand on my arm. “Just remember that I have a life.”

“I will never forget, my angel. For today, just try and enjoy yourself. As much as a wedding will allow.” I laughed as I escorted her down the stairs. Almost immediately Don Coppola could be seen mingling with the guests, the woman on his arm at least half his age. I guided Valencia to a seat, remaining by her side as I scanned the guests who’d already arrived.

“Who is the man exciting the guests?” she asked.

“Don Coppola of Sicily. Will you be alright if I spent a moment with him?”

“Of course.”

I squeezed her arm and headed toward the man, remaining off to the side until he noticed my arrival.

“Excuse me,” he said politely to a group of people, immediately heading in my direction. “Sophia. Will you be so kind as to get your old man a drink?”

“Of course, Daddy.” The young woman smiled, giving me a onceover that couldn’t be mistaken.

“That’s your daughter?” I asked after she’d left.

“Oh, come now, Christos. I’m an old man. What would I do with a young woman in my bed? Besides, I love my wife. Unfortunately, she became ill just this morning. I asked my daughter to take her place. I hope you don’t mind.”

“Not at all. Have you spoken to my father?”

“Only briefly. He is a busy man with his son getting married.” Leonardo laughed. “Family is the most important weapon a man can have. Never allow anyone to tell you otherwise.”

“That sounds like my father.”

“A wise man. You know. Sophia is very single and a marriage of our two powerful families would be a great honor.”

Don Coppola never did anything without a reason. “While I am honored by your belief in me, I must tell you that I’m taken.” I shifted my weight, nodding toward Valencia.

He turned his head in the lovely doctor’s direction. “Ah, the woman who saved your life. Of course. Wise choice.”

“You’re aware of her heroic efforts.” I was instantly on edge.

“Few in our world are unaware of something so noble. I must tell you that your family has attracted significant attention over these last months.”

“How so, Don Coppola?”

As Sophia returned, he held back his comment, telling her in Italian to enjoy herself while we spoke. It became obvious to me by the look she gave me that she’d been told to flirt. And to garner my full attention. What was the Don up to at this point?

Unlike my father, I trusted no one, certainly not in the world where criminals ruled trade, commerce, exports, and weapons. Illegal drugs were something else altogether and we were finally done with dispensing them like candy.

Too many people had died when other less scrupulous criminals had laced our high-quality products with garbage, including rat poison. However, now being on the cusp of becoming the world’s export leader in the diamond industry, new and even more ruthless piranhas had begun to slither from their dark hiding places.

He made certain no one was paying attention to our conversation. “I don’t need to remind you how many organizations would love to claim the title of diamond king.”

I chuckled. “Is that any different than other products we’ve sold?” The diamond trade industry was quickly becoming the largest share of our fortune.

“You’re a smart man just like your father and brothers. Diamonds aren’t just a woman’s best friend. They are the wave of the future. Try and remember every city with a port is a prime location for bringing in such precious gems.”

“Including New York.”

“Perhaps.” The Don was being careful with his words. I was somewhat surprised he wasn’t speaking to my father about this or to Havros since they’d developed a surprising bond. Then again, it was entirely possible whatever he’d heard about the incidents in New York were the sole reason he was speaking with me.

“What is it you’re attempting to warn me about, Don Coppola?” With the ceremony about to begin, I didn’t have time for riddles.

“Just remember that while both organizations and people appear to be on the right side of the law, there are always gray areas that seep in based on greed and the hunger for power. Your father knows that all too well.”

“I’m not certain what you’re getting at.” And I wasn’t, while I completely understood just by being here today the Don was laying down tracks that could harm his chances at becoming Godfather. Given what had occurred for decades with another Don within the Italian province, there were many in Italy and the surrounding countries who would prefer seeing our family and our lucrative corporation eliminated.

Especially the diamonds.

He turned to face me, his eyes boring into mine. “Be very careful where your loyalties are placed in the upcoming weeks. Trust is a valuable asset and often misused. You know as well as I do that information is a valuable tool. Take nothing at face value. Now, I will go find my daughter before she gets into any trouble.”

“Of course and thank you for the advice.” I watched him amble away, trying to process the warning he’d just provided.

Dimitrios was suddenly by my side. “What was that?”

“I honestly don’t know for certain. Yet I have a feeling he’s tossed down a puzzle for me to solve.”

“About?”

“About who is pulling the strings of the people in New York. The upcoming diamond shipments. Are they secure?”

“Interesting and yes. I checked on them yesterday.”

“I recommend we widen our discovery on the players surrounding Kenneth Baker and his cronies. I also think you should lock down the shipments, perhaps even holding back on delivering to New York.”

“An excellent thought, although we have several buyers with promised delivery dates.”

After scanning the area, I thought about what I was recommending. “I have a strong belief what occurred in New York has nothing to do with the club. However, Mr. Baker and his cronies hope we’ll spend more time worrying about the contract with Stern and lose our control on the ships entering the port.”

Dimitrios shook his head. “You’ve taken great interest in the role you’re serving and I appreciate that. I’ll widen the scope of information sought. But not until tomorrow.” He clapped me on the back. “Try and enjoy yourself. This is a celebration and even our family deserves some happiness.”

Happiness. While that was true, I’d learned a long time ago timing was everything. While my brother’s wedding hadn’t been traditionally announced, that didn’t mean hundreds of people outside of the wedding guests hadn’t learned the date, time, and place. “Be careful, Dimitrios. I have a bad feeling about today.”

“Let’s just hope you’re wrong. If you aren’t, it means war.”

War. The word held different meanings depending on the situation.

As the music began to play, an indication the guests should find a seat, I turned toward Valencia. She’d been watching me during the conversation with the Don. It was amazing to me that I could admit I’d been happier over the last several days than I had for a good portion of my life.

However, Don Coppola was tossing crumbs about the incredible doctor. It was another piece to a twisted puzzle that had been tossed out in New York. He’d held some interest in overtaking the Italian mafia in various cities within the US. I couldn’t help but wonder if his warning was legitimate. He wanted us out of harm’s way.

I stood studying the talented doctor as Havros walked in my direction. Perhaps it was past time to take what we’d shared more seriously.

Was she hiding something from me? If so, I would soon discover exactly what that was. My gut churned in thinking she could betray me.

As my father would tell me, blood was thicker than perfume.