The Enforcer (Vengeful Empire #3)

Chapter 30

CHAPTER 30

V alencia

“Just the basics,” Christos reminded me for the fifth time. We’d gone over what I would say to my father with Christos listening in at least five times. This wasn’t about tipping the Nomikos family’s hand as much as it was about confirming my father was attempting to destroy corruption and not being a part of it.

“I know how to handle my father.”

“It would seem you know how to handle most men.”

Whether he was teasing or admonishing me, everything with the powerful Greek god seemed normal. That continued to poke at me. “Keep that in mind.”

He laughed and eased onto the chair beside me, a drink in his hand. We’d waited until a new day had dawned prior to making contact. While my father was often difficult to get in touch with, mornings were sacred to him, the only time he was truly alone. With the time difference, I hoped we’d determined the best time.

Christos reached over, gripping my arm briefly for encouragement. What I’d found interesting since offering my help was that I didn’t feel in any way I was betraying my family. With the evidence I’d seen, some details checked overnight with their expansive communications system, I felt confident I was doing the right thing. There’d been much more on a jump drive. The person responsible for obtaining the information had gone to great lengths to do so.

Although my father wouldn’t accept bullshit about how I came into possession of the details. He also wouldn’t approve of my relationship with a Greek mafia man under any circumstances. It might create a rift that couldn’t be repaired. I would deal with that when the time came.

This was my life and up to this point, I’d made damn good decisions.

I made the call, holding my breath as I waited to see if he’d answer.

“Jesus Christ, Valencia. I’ve been calling you.” My father was never one for huge emotions, but I could tell he was exasperated.

“Hey, Dad.” I lifted my head, studying Christos. I remained on the couch, Magnum’s head in my lap. And I was on speakerphone. “I’ve just been busy.”

“So it would seem. You’re in fucking Greece? With that man you saved?”

My father also didn’t mince words.

I shifted my attention to Christos. The man held no expression.

“I had an opportunity to enjoy myself and I did so.” I kept a slight edge in my voice. My father certainly knew me well enough to know when I wanted to do something, I would.

“With a goddamn mafia asshole? You just had to save his life. Didn’t you?”

Christos bristled, but remained quiet.

“I don’t get to choose whose life I save, Daddy. You told me many a time you admire me for my choices and my work. Now, you need to listen to me. I’m living my life the way I see fit and whatever you’ve heard about the Nomikos family is dead wrong.” I was usually never this vehement with my dad out of respect if nothing else.

Sadly, he had a way of talking over me, which drowned out any chance at having a decent conversation. That just couldn’t occur.

“What are you getting at?” he barked.

“Are you working on a special committee to eradicate Medicaid fraud?”

I could tell my direct question caught him off guard. “Who told you that?”

“Does it really matter? What does is that your good buddy Kenneth Baker and Senator Stern are taking what you discuss and turning it over to the Armenian mob. Have you ever wondered why they’ve been one step ahead of you?” Christos had mentioned Stern’s son was in charge of the land development company who’d reneged on a deal that had been in the works for months.

He laughed. “You’re on speakerphone. Should I assume we have an audience?”

Christos lifted a single eyebrow. “Good morning, Senator Laurant. My name is Christos Nomikos. Contrary to what you might have read, our family is both legitimate and highly respected. Currently, we are attempting to do business in the state of New York. That includes with the diamond exchange. Now, whether you want to believe it or not, given the heat the Armenian Power has received from your investigation, they are in the process of disbanding their current operations and shifting gears.”

“Into what?” my father snapped. No one blindsided Gregory Laurant.

“Precious gems, Dad,” I answered. “These dangerous men already own the ports. Soon, you’re going to witness significant violence and bloodshed since so many organizations want a piece of the extremely lucrative diamond exchange business.”

The silence on the other end of the line forced me to hold my breath.

“I don’t know what you’re mixed up in, Valencia, although I can tell by your siding with a common criminal how bad it must be. With no evidence, this is nothing but a witch hunt and Mr. Baker has a solid reputation in the Laborers’ Union.”

“Please, Dad. I do read the papers from time to time. He’s not well liked and has made many enemies. It’s important that you take the time to look into what’s happening in a different way and trust no one.”

“Including the man who has you wrapped around your little finger.”

Now I was getting pissed. “No fair, Dad. I can make up my own mind about things just like you can. You taught me to be independent and cautious. That’s what I’ve been my entire life. We were almost killed at a wedding because so many fear the Nomikos family and what they can do.”

“That should include you,” my dad insisted.

“As I said, I’m very cautious. I only look at the evidence that’s right in front of me. Christos and his entire family are good people. They’re close. They work hard. They care about their community.”

“Ri-ight. Why would Kenneth Baker consider a sudden change in business operations?” My dad was ready to laugh.

“Because he was promised a share of the new trade industry in exchange for his assistance in several land development deals. It’s a twisted game with several highly respected men and women on the take. Don’t underestimate the power and tyranny of the Armenian leadership. They don’t need to stand out in a city full of crime syndicates. They lie in wait, watching and preparing. That’s exactly what they are doing.” Christos was succinct in his words, the discussion exactly what we’d discussed.

“And you’re telling me you have evidence of this?” he barked.

I glanced at Christos who nodded. Leaning over, I typed my father’s secure email address. “I’m sending you some preliminary information, Dad. You should be able to take it to the district attorney. If you find it helpful, there are several files that will provide additional evidence.”

“Why are you doing this, Valencia?”

“Because I found the woman inside, Dad. You need to trust me. Just look at the evidence.”

He half laughed as if I was losing my mind. “What kind of Kool-Aid did the man slip you so that you didn’t care about your life and the job you told me you loved so much? Do you realize that your reputation has already been damaged?”

“I’ll deal with that myself. Just see what you think and let me know.”

“You’re a smart man, Senator. I don’t believe I need to tell you that if you are part of the corruption, there are other methods to handle bringing justice to my family.”

“Are you threatening me, son?” my father challenged.

“Not at all, sir. I’m a traditional businessman with millions to lose in New York if the Armenians are allowed to continue operating as little more than thugs. From what I know of your reputation, you’ve worked too hard in your life and career, pushing against organized crime. I will call you in twenty-four hours to see what you’ve decided.”

“Then what?”

“It will depend on what you say.” Christos had an edge to his voice, his eyes piercing mine during the entire conversation.

“Fine. I’ll look it over, but I don’t know you.” My father was still incensed.

“But you do know your daughter. Trust in her instincts, Senator. She is one of the most intelligent and intuitive people I’ve ever met.”

“I don’t like this, Valencia. You should come home.”

Sighing, I hit send and pushed my laptop away. “Not until justice is served. That’s something you also taught me, Dad. Remember that?”

He didn’t bother saying goodbye, just ending the call. I dropped my head. “He doesn’t believe us.”

“Let the evidence speak for itself. Now, we have a homecoming to attend.”

“And after that?” I asked him, finally looking into his eyes all over again.

“Then we enjoy our evening. Together. As a family.”

Magnum lifted his head as if in approval. He stretched, almost falling off the couch before crawling his way down. I wasn’t surprised over the draw he had to Christos. They’d experienced an instant bond, which had told me so much about the man’s personality.

And his intentions.

His heart was full of compassion, although I wouldn’t long to be one of his enemies. I also didn’t need to know how he handled them. The inferences were enough.

Magnum wiggled his butt as usual before placing his head on Christos’ lap. As the handsome Greek god stroked my fur baby’s head, I was offered another moment of sweet peace. Having my dog with me meant more than I’d told him.

“Why did you not only agree, but want to help my family and our business?” he asked.

“Because every one of you believes deeply in family and loyalty. I admire that very much.”

“Is there any other reason?” Every time his eyes twinkled, I had tremors.

“I don’t know. Maybe.”

“Well, when you figure that out, let me know.”

“Why choose to do the right thing?” I asked.

Christos continued rubbing Magnum’s head, glancing out the bank of doors for a few seconds. “Because for the first time in my life I have a reason to spend more time enjoying life than creating enemies.” He slowly turned his head, his stare so poignant and deep I was taken aback.

“Because?”

He chuckled for a few seconds. “Because of you.”

“Is that something you’ll regret in the future?”

Now his expression turned playful. “Probably.”

I tossed a pillow at him just as my phone rang. Perhaps my father wanted to give me a piece of his mind. When I noticed the number, I froze.

“What is it?” he asked, his voice deeper than before.

“It’s the hospital. I sent an email that I was taking a few days.” I hadn’t known what to do at that point. What should I tell them, that I was taking an undisclosed leave of absence?

He said nothing further as I debated answering it, but putting off whoever was on the other end of the line wasn’t going to make things any easier. “Dr. Laurant.”

“Doctor. I was hoping to reach you. I know it’s early, but this couldn’t wait.”

The hospital administrator. I was instantly on edge. “It’s afternoon here, Director Wallace. What can I do for you?”

“Your email was received.”

“Good. I will let you know when I’m returning.”

I sensed Christos’ tension.

“There’s been some information brought to my attention. I’m afraid you’ve compromised your position with us at the hospital. While it’s unfortunate, I feel I have no choice but to let you go.”

The words rang in my ears and I got to my feet, trying to listen to what he was saying while my entire world seemed to be crumbling around me.

“Someone lied to you, Director Wallace,” I said, although I knew it wouldn’t matter.

“Maybe so. When you return, we’ll have another discussion.”

“Sure. Whatever.” I didn’t bother remaining the nice girl I’d been my entire life. I hung up on the man.

“What happened?” Christos asked as he was suddenly right behind me.

“They fired me. Do you believe that? I have no job.”

He placed his hands on my shoulders. “I’m sorry.”

“Are you? Are you really?” I turned around to face him. Yes, I was angry, furious. And I was already lashing out at the one person that had shown me joy. “Or did you orchestrate this so I wouldn’t have much to return home to?”

“Maybe you should answer that question, Valencia. Do you really think I would stoop so low as to destroy your career for my personal needs?”

“You’re certainly capable of doing so.” The words were biting and I hated having said them.

Christos was doing nothing more than staring at me, but I sensed he was hurting. “I’m sorry you feel that way, Valencia. However, that changes nothing. You’re safest here with me.”

“And in a week, a month?”

“You’ll always be safe with me.” He peered down at Magnum with a look that could only be described as loving before walking out of the room.

“I hurt him.” I don’t know why I’d admitted the words out loud other than I remained angry with myself for lashing out.

“Are you talking about Christos?” Willow asked. While Cora was in her element, cooking a welcome home lunch for the family, I was outside on the veranda with Willow and Kara. The kids were sleeping, or so the ladies hoped.

“Yes. I don’t know what I’m thinking or doing any longer.” That was certainly the truth.

“Being in love with powerful men isn’t easy, Valencia. I had no desire to care about Havros. None. I didn’t want to be with him, but I couldn’t stay away.” Kara laughed. “They are enigmatic and the draw to them is gripping.”

“I don’t think I’m in love with him, but the draw to the man is certainly true.” I could barely stomach the wine I’d accepted. I instantly noticed the look they shared between them. “Do not go there. I’ve known him what, a week? You both knew the men you care about much longer. You can’t fall in love that fast.” As soon as I made the statement, the ache I’d felt in my stomach all morning long increased.

“You might say I knew Dimitrios my entire life, although I only saw him three times as a child. However, as an adult? Well, even though he pretty much kidnapped me after accusing me of having something to do with his brother’s murder, you’d think I would hate him. Wrong. Within days, I knew. I hated admitting the way I felt, but I knew.”

“I was the same,” Kara said with a smile on her face. “One interview and I thought the sun rose and set on the man. Yes, we bickered and he drove me insane with his demanding ways, but within days, I knew I never wanted to leave his side. What do you have to lose if you eliminate the armor suffocating you?”

One thing I adored about both women was just how strong they were. They had no issue speaking their minds and in truth, the two men they’d fallen in love with seemed to respect everything they said.

“I don’t know. My job. My home. My heart?” I laughed bitterly because I knew the armor Kara had mentioned was already rusting, prepared to crumble.

“Let me think.” Willow tapped her finger across her lips. “Correct me if I’m wrong about any of this. Christos knew you were missing your dog, so he had a private jet flown to and from New York bringing him to you as a surprise. Yes?”

“Yes.”

“He purchased you a bracelet to honor the pup you love, a little bobble that likely cost several hundred thousand dollars. He jumped across your body to keep you from being shot during a near massacre. Correct?” Kara added. Damn if both women weren’t having a good time with this.

“Fine. Okay. He has also forbidden me to return to New York,” I told them.

“Yes, because he is willing to do everything in his power to protect you.” Willow was staring at me.

“He kills people.”

Both women groaned. “I know what I’m about to say goes against common sense, logic, and morality, but it’s rare, and when and if one of them need to, it’s because someone has attempted to hurt their family and those they care about. Let’s face it, some of the people they’ve… eliminated weren’t cream of the crop if you know what I mean. Does that make taking a life right in any regard? No, but there are reasons and they were all born into a life they’d been predestined for. A legacy.” Willow wasn’t making light of the fact all of them had been judge and jury one time or another. But…

“I got it. Okay? I do. I just feel so lost.” That wasn’t a lie.

“I don’t think you’re lost, Valencia. I think you finally found yourself. I was lucky in that I not only gained an amazing man as a husband, but I also was determined to keep my career. He didn’t try and stop me. I have the best of every world and I wouldn’t change a thing. That doesn’t mean there weren’t sleepless nights. That doesn’t mean I didn’t fight the way I felt about Havros or that I didn’t second guess my sanity. I can tell you’re doing the same thing.” She looked down at Magnum who’d come along for the homecoming and sighed. “Why don’t you ask your pup what you should do? Isn’t it true that dogs know a good person from an evil one?”

I nodded, placing my wine on the table. “This is just so… I need to work.”

“You can find out what you need to do to get your license in Greece. You were trained in the United States at the best medical school in the country and possibly the world. That will hold its own. If that’s what you want to do.” Willow was making far too much good sense.

“But the anger,” I continued pushing.

Kara cocked her head. “I know you’re heard this before, but if you live your life always looking over your shoulder anticipating the worst, is that really living?”

Now she had me chuckling. “No, it isn’t.”

“The one thing my mother taught me and I’ll remember this until the day I die. Love isn’t easy nor does it come around often. When it does, you have to fight with everything you have to keep something so special.”

“And sometimes that means fighting with every ounce of common sense or what you’re used to doing. But I think I can speak for Willow as well by saying fighting to keep what you want is so worth it.”

I looked from one woman to the other. They were tough and amazing and I wanted very much to be able to call them my friends.

“Now, the question is, and you can’t ignore it and we want an answer. Do you love Christos?” Willow asked. She had both her eyebrows raised as if prepared to chastise me.

I closed my eyes, feeling the press of Magnum’s head against my leg. I laughed even as a single tear trickled past my lashes. “Yes.”

“Then you need to tell him that before it’s too late,” Willow whispered.