Arranged

Chapter 8

CHAPTER 8

A lejandro

Killing hadn’t come as second nature to me, but once I’d gotten a taste of what it felt like, some would say I’d been hooked. I’d needed the pools of blood and broken limbs as if a dose of heroin.

Maybe that was the truth.

Being required to put a bullet in a man’s brain or gunning him down in a powerful exchange of fire meant nothing to me any longer. In fact, the taking of someone’s life in those methods was pedestrian in my mind.

In other words, boring as hell.

Yet the kills were clean and easy, the use of a silencer in such a large city more than just a matter of convenience. It allowed for a tamper-free operation.

Maybe my desire to gut the man like a pig came from the continued frustration over being unable to locate the newest enemy. Or the fact spending time with my fiancée had presented me with blue balls. I wasn’t certain and it didn’t matter.

From what Bronco had told me on the ride over to the man’s house, Marco had been offered a significant sum of money for a single piece of information.

The location of the meeting between the two Dons. Now, how the enemy had any clue there was going to be a meeting had yet to be determined. If the organization’s leader was smart, he’d managed to buy his limited loyalty through the use of several soldiers from both the Lupini and Santorelli operations.

I’d hunt them down one by one.

“You got a nice-looking fiancée, boss. I don’t mean any disrespect,” Bronco said just before he climbed from the vehicle.

“None taken, but never let yourself admire her again, Bronco. I’m a very possessive man.”

“Yes, sir. Never again. I’ll bring him right out.” Bronco was eager to drag the son of the bitch to the waiting SUV.

Once he’d walked away, Gio flashed a grin in the rearview mirror. “You’re angry.”

“You bet I am.”

“I never told you this, but I like it when you’re angry. Gives me the warm and fuzzies.”

I had to laugh. Gio could be a funny guy. Tonight, I didn’t want any evidence left, which meant creatively disposing of him.

This simply wasn’t the right time to make a bold statement, not with the wedding a week away.

“I don’t like rats, Gio. That’s something I need to convey to everyone.”

“You think we have more than one.”

“It’s possible. I need them rooted out. I also need to establish a meeting with Drago so his men will search their ranks as well.”

“I don’t like that man.” His admittance was another reason I liked the guy and had learned to trust him.

He was observant as fuck.

It was also the reason I’d avoided his invitations to have a drink off hours. I was friendly with no one. That was in my best interest.

At least he’d lost some of his arrogance given the circumstances.

“Take a number, Gio. However, we are required by contract to consider him one of the family.”

He choked. “He’s more like the barbaric side of the family then.”

That he was.

Only minutes later, Bronco could be seen escorting Marco to the car. There was no hesitation in the man and he wasn’t being dragged. I was more than curious as to what Bronco had said to the man to get him to come along willingly.

Marco was all smiles when he climbed in. “Wow. I didn’t think the ceremony would be tonight. I mean, I know it’s a special day and all.”

My Capo had told him he was being taken to the Made Man ceremony, another Neanderthal process that I’d been put through. The taking of blood, the oath of life by taking and accepting the Omerta. Only it was obvious the man didn’t understand the code of silence the oath contained.

I said nothing, but allowed Bronco to open a bottle of aged scotch, presenting a glass to the three of us. Gio remained quiet, likely enjoying the ceremony in the vehicle.

“I must admit I’m nervous as fuck. I mean I heard they cut your hand. Does that shit hurt?” Marco gulped the first sip of his scotch.

It was over ten thousand a bottle and he was gulping the liquid as if it was a can of soda. I should be incensed by that if nothing else. I’d prearranged for Gio to drive us to a warehouse along the docks. It worked perfectly into Bronco’s story of the man being taken in the late hours of the night.

Only the Don wouldn’t be there to honor him with the incredible nod.

“It ain’t so bad,” Bronco told him. He held up his hand, the faint scar on his palm similar to mine. Another badge of honor.

“Shit. I never told you guys, but I hate the sight of blood.”

I snorted at his admittance. It would be so enjoyable to gut him like I’d thought about. Not tonight. If there was enough time, I’d need to have a further conversation with my bride to be about what was expected of her.

Even if I wasn’t certain how to handle every aspect of the situation at this point.

Bronco jabbered away about some shit while Gio drove. It seemed like forever until he pulled into the mostly abandoned port. There were busy areas on the other side, but given our ingoing and outgoing shipments were finite, our timing was succinct and limited.

He got out, pulling his suit jacket together and buttoning it. He was more than eager to take the long strides toward the warehouse doors.

I was last inside, flipping on the lights.

When he noticed the warehouse wasn’t filled with additional men, he backed away, his arms immediately grasped by Gio and Bronco.

“You’re not going anywhere, Marco.”

“What…What’s this about?” He was instantly nervous, darting a look around the room. We had shipments waiting to go out the next day. There were also empty barrels that could prove useful. I moved to the makeshift table the men had established, placing my weapon on the surface. For sheer entertainment purposes, I added the silencer. Not that it was needed in this location.

“It’s about your disloyalty, Marco.” I was calm. There was no need to be unhinged at this point. He wasn’t going anywhere.

“What are you talking about? I’m very loyal. You all know me. I adore the Don.” The fact Marco was pleading wasn’t a good sign. Those who were innocent took a little longer to feel the instant panic that he was experiencing. He even struggled in the two men’s strong hold.

“Let’s not play games, Marco. Tonight is my engagement party and I was interrupted to deal with a smelly rat. As you might imagine, that pisses me off significantly.”

“But I did nothing.”

“Except for sell the information regarding the meeting of the Dons to someone.”

He wasn’t anticipating my direct statement.

His lower lip quivered.

Sighing, I walked closer, ignoring my weapon. “The question is to whom.”

“I didn’t do that. I swear to God.”

“Come on, Marco. The money was found in your account. You bragged about it at your favorite watering hole. That was your single mistake.” I held up my index finger.

Marco swallowed hard.

I did nothing more than stare into his eyes and his defenses started breaking down.

“I don’t know who it was. Okay? It was just information. A name of a meeting place. I didn’t think that was so bad.”

Well, at least he admitted it. Maybe I’d let him off with a pass.

Nah.

I wasn’t that kind of man.

After taking a deep breath, I rubbed my jaw. Maybe it was time to grow a beard again. I’d started in this world with one and it had been like a lucky charm. “How was the offer made, Marco?”

“A phone call. A voice I didn’t recognize. All the man wanted was a location. He said it was because he owed Don Lupini a visit.”

Gio snorted. “And you bought that shit?”

“Why would the guy lie to me? It wasn’t about our Don.” Marco truly believed what he’d done hadn’t been wrong on any level.

If men owned up to their actions, I usually allowed them a quick death. When stupidity was involved, I usually lost my cool.

I gave my two men a quick glance before glancing at the barrel. “I’m sorry, Marco, but the reason for what you did pisses me off. And my men can tell you it’s not good for me to be pissed off. Ever.”

“I’ll make it up to you guys. I’ll find the source myself.” Marco’s pleas were falling on deaf ears.

I was already weary of hearing him beg. “I think it’s time for you to make a long trip overseas. What do you think? New scenery?”

“You mean exile.” Marco was now sweating.

“Yes, something like that.”

“Can I eventually come back?”

Was he really that stupid? I guess he was. “Sure. At some point.” And in some manner. Little did he know it would be as fish food.

“I need to tell you something else, Mr. Banderas,” Marco breathed. His entire body was swaying, sweat dripping off him.

He knew his actual fate. I could tell by the look in his eyes. He was executing his last will and testament. Only in the method as done by a fellow criminal.

“Go ahead. I’m listening.”

“Be careful. Getting married I mean. Somebody doesn’t want that to happen.”

I didn’t waste my time asking who that someone was. There really was no need. What he did confirm was exactly what I’d come to believe.

The alliance and wedding were nothing more than a massive self-built target. Maybe my lovely bride to be was correct in that we were nothing but pawns. Well, in that case, it was time to handle the situation and the future my way. “Thank you, Marco. I appreciate that.”

Gio grinned. “Nice job.”

Bronco held him easily while Gio followed my nod. “Store him away for shipment tomorrow.”

He noticed where I was glancing and grinned. “Excellent idea, boss. Excellent.”

I was usually the one who was forced to get his hands dirty. Tonight, I’d let my Capos do the filthy work. I grabbed my weapon and moved toward Marco. “A pleasure working with you, Marco. I hope where you’re going, you’ll find a new life.”

Straight to hell.

With that, I left the building. Some fresh air would do me some good.

* * *

Carmella

“You’re what?” Zoe had her mouth open, her body language indicating shock.

“Yep. You heard what I said. I’m getting married.”

“Do I even want to know how that happened? And please don’t tell me you’re getting married to Gabriel’s deadbeat father because I’ll have you committed.”

“Oh, no. It’s not Derek.”

I’d asked her to head to my favorite coffee shop so I could give her the news. Since I’d yet to succumb to hearing all the new ‘rules’ that would be laid out, I was running out of time. I wanted to continue working at the clinic, but at this point, everything was up in the air.

All I knew was that Gabriel and I were expected to move back closer to New York. Since Alejandro lived in a condo, he was actively looking for a more suitable place for us to live. When he’d mentioned me selling my house, I’d laughed in his face.

No man was going to tell me what to do even if I had a ring on my finger.

“Then who is this fabulous guy, although you seem about as excited as getting ready to have your tonsils removed.”

“That would be more exciting. Certainly more rewarding.”

“Then you need to tell me what is really going on.” Zoe leaned forward. I’d told no one about my family. Granted, I hadn’t changed my name so there was always a chance people had an inkling who my father was, but no one had dared confront me with any questions over the years.

“All I can say is that it’s a family obligation. It’s good for business.”

“Business. Right. So, we’re talking an arranged marriage?” She laughed, acting as if the entire thing was a big joke.

If only it was.

“Oh, my God,” she breathed. “That’s what this is. Is that even allowed by law?”

I suddenly felt extremely uncomfortable. Since I’d insisted on returning to work and my home, I’d had my suspicions I was being watched. The term ‘protected’ would be used, but it felt like an infringement of my rights.

Of course I knew right now would be the perfect opportunity to expand on the weakness Alejandro had mentioned, but just ending my life and starting another one wasn’t acceptable.

“It is if there’s a contract involved.”

“That you signed?”

“I didn’t need to.”

“Oh, Jesus. Who is your father?”

I laughed. Lately, almost every sound I made was bitter. The moment I’d seen my little boy throwing his arms around Alejandro’s neck, I’d vowed to kill the man. I was a doctor. I’d taken a vow to protect life and all I could think about was killing him.

Yet all I’d been dreaming about when I’d managed to fall asleep was fucking him. That was simply crazy.

I’d been able to taste him, including the blood I’d drawn, for almost a full day after we’d kissed in front of everyone at the party. Lately, his face had crowded too many of my waking hours.

I couldn’t stand the fact I’d almost enjoyed the spanking.

“He’s dangerous. That’s all I can tell you.” The admittance was easy to do. He was treachery in a well-tailored suit.

“So why not say no?”

“That’s not allowed. I know it’s very tough to understand, but my parents were born in Sicily. They believe in the old Italian ways.”

“It’s funny. You really don’t seem Italian at all,” Zoe said. “Is this guy at least cute?”

“Yes, he’s cute, but we aren’t compatible.”

“When is the wedding? Am I invited?”

I had to squeeze her hand. “I’d love to have you there, but I just can’t. I wish I could explain why, but it’s better if you didn’t know.”

“I don’t like what I’m hearing. It’s just not like you.”

The coffee normally made me feel refreshed. Not today. I wasn’t certain any liquid other than maybe consuming an entire bottle of wine could do that. Doing so wasn’t on the horizon. I still had details to plan regarding the clinic. “I know, but I don’t have any choices. For the time being, I’ve managed to secure another doctor to fill in. He’s a good guy, his reputation top notch, but you’re in charge. Okay? I need you to keep everything going. I’ll be available by phone every day except for my… wedding day.”

Muttering the words was difficult.

“When is that?”

I glanced at my watch. “In two days.” My God. How was I going to get through the atrocity?

And what about the wedding night?

My throat was suddenly scratchy.

“What can I get you for a wedding present?” she asked, a doleful look appearing in her eyes.

“You can say a prayer for me that no one dies in the process.”

Her laugh sounded as hollow as I was certain mine had. But I wasn’t kidding.

I’d left town the day after the engagement party, keeping my head down and ignoring my father’s ten phone calls. But I had forced myself to listen to a few of his messages.

They’d all been warnings, telling me to keep my doors locked and not to go out and about more often than I needed. That was tough since Gabriel adored his preschool, often more eager to head to the small building than to leave it.

I’d yet to break it to him that he’d be leaving his class for an extended timeframe. Then I had work and the grocery store. Gabriel could eat us out of house and home. I didn’t know where the kid put all the food he consumed, but I had a feeling he was going to be a huge man.

Just like his father.

His biological father.

Yet the kid continued to ask about my fi-nan-ce. I never corrected him as he seemed so proud of himself.

What had I managed to tell him about Alejandro? That he was a big man in my future father-in-law’s organization. I’d done so in such a way I’d almost made the mystery man sound like a hero. Which was ridiculous. He was a killer, just like I’d accused him of being.

I’d looked him up on the internet, finding absolutely nothing. Not a thing. Where had he come from? With him being so high up in the Santorelli organization, I certainly didn’t expect the guy to be a party hopper, but there should be some social media presence. I didn’t know what to think, but I had a list of questions I planned on grilling him on.

“What’s his name?” she asked almost slyly, that mischievous smile returning to her face.

“It’s best you don’t know that either.”

“You are no fair. How handsome is he? Like on a scale of one to ten?”

Sighing, I closed my eyes and an image of him in his tuxedo immediately popped into my mind. “Nine and a half.”

“Well, there’s that. Maybe he’ll end up being Prince Charming.”

“Ha. Not a chance.” More like Napoleon on growth hormones.

“When am I going to see you again?”

“I don’t know. I really don’t.”

She squeezed my arm for a second time. “Make certain you call me. I don’t know what this is or why you believe you need to go through with an unwanted marriage, but remember this is America. You aren’t forced into anything you don’t want to do.”

If only I could explain how different our two worlds were. I’d been na?ve enough to believe I’d fallen so far out of favor with my father I wouldn’t need to worry about him or that life.

Now I was paying the price for my naivety.