Chapter 28
CHAPTER 28
D imitrios
“Keep her safe, my son. She is the light that will keep you from becoming enshrouded in darkness.”
Those were the words my mother had said moments before stepping inside the church for my brother’s service. I hadn’t taken them lightly, her expression highlighting her strength.
Just like I’d witnessed in Willow.
There was something telling about karma insisting that on the day of my brother’s funeral storms would arise. They hadn’t been predicted, but here we were graveside, at least two hundred umbrellas in full view.
At least almost everyone we’d invited had been inside the church for the celebration of life. Still, it wasn’t fitting for a bold spirit such as Leandro’s. However, if I knew my brother, he’d be laughing in his grave.
The people who’d shown up were either family, close friends, or those who were hoping to glean whatever information they believed they could use against us. As expected, members of the press had arrived as well, hoping to catch the perfect photograph of a grieving family.
There were a solid two dozen people I didn’t recognize. I had a suspicion the Stalker was here to bask in derailing a family. Even if the target had been the wrong man. I didn’t buy that either.
“Everyone who holds any importance in Athens is here,” Christos said as he flanked my side.
“Yes, as anticipated.”
“What do they hope to accomplish?”
“Watching a powerful family crumble around the edges.” I scanned the perimeter as people paid their respects. While some of the Greek Orthodox traditions were being followed, my mother believing Leandro’s soul had already risen, concern over the threats had prevented the entirely traditional method. However, this moment was important to my parents. This wasn’t just about goodbyes but about a new beginning.
I found it impossible to think that way when my brother’s body was lying in a goddamn twenty-thousand-dollar casket.
“Willow is certainly handling this better than I expected.”
Christos was right. She’d been a godsend all morning to our mother, remaining by her side as she was doing right now.
“Yes, she is.” I noticed Greg remained standing near the trees where he’d been since we’d arrived. We hadn’t said but a few words since our meeting, even though my mother had insisted he stay at the house. One big happy family.
The thought brought the taste of blood to my mouth, spots of the dark color swimming in front of my eyes.
“The Armenian showed up.”
I’d already spotted Davit and his two guards. There was no reason for his presence to keep a red flag in my mind, but that was the case. His visit had seemed practiced, even forced. While his father had maintained a friendly working relationship, I knew for a fact Davit was exploring his options. That was easy to find on the internet. I’d spent some time doing research on his family.
“He’s been chatting it up with Pops.”
“I’ve noticed,” I told him. If I knew my father, he’d already laid some groundwork. I’d asked him to allow news of our engagement to slip. If the Stalker was here, the news would travel quickly.
“Do you know what I find fascinating?” I asked my brother.
“What?”
“Davit’s father was doing just fine three months ago. He was photographed at a restaurant and to me, he looked quite healthy.”
“Illnesses, especially in a man of his age can come on quickly.”
“I don’t buy it.” I turned toward him. “See if any of your artist friends know anything.” I’d known the older man was very fond of the artistic community, spending a good deal of his wealth on paintings and sculptures. He was also known to frequent gallery showings all throughout Europe. Since my brother was friendly with several prominent painters, it was a good bet someone knew something about his health issues.
Christos lifted his eyebrows. “You don’t trust him.”
“Not with my life. No.”
“Then I’ll make a few calls. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll make that happen prior to leaving. I’m not certain I can stand to watch anyone pretending to give a damn.”
“Go for it.” Our business had been forged in blood, sweat, and tears until only ten years before. It was becoming apparent to me that abandoning our former methods wasn’t in our best interest.
Around Willow, I was an entirely different man, someone who embodied the same family values my parents had instilled, and in business I was a relentless powerhouse, strong in acumen when dealing with contracts and deals.
But right now, it was time to unearth the man I’d been brought up to be.
Ruthless.
Brutal.
And unforgiving.
While my father had insisted peace was far more appealing than bloodshed, I was beginning to believe otherwise.
Someone was after my family. That someone needed to die. There was no other way of handling the situation.
As Davit made his way toward me, I took a few seconds to button my jacket. Looking the part of the boss was just as important as being one. His men hung back, allowing him to approach by himself.
The Armenian didn’t offer his condolences for a second time, merely standing by my side in observing the priest begin the graveside ceremony. We stood in silence, the light pattering of rain and my mother’s sobs the only sounds.
“Truly loving a woman is a weakness. Don’t you agree?” His question had interesting timing.
“There are many weaknesses, Davit. Everyone has something that could be used against them. In my experience, those who try and hide their proclivities are the ones most likely to face their own demise.”
“Very astute, but love is the most intolerable weakness of all. Men with the greatest power need heirs, but that’s why arranged marriages are useful. I learned a long time ago from dear friends that true love could be used as an excellent weapon. However, you’re not the kind of man to fall prey to anything more than a brief carnal need. I admire you for that.”
His veiled threat fascinated me, the audacity of doing so at this moment indicating he felt confident in his ability to best my family.
Fat. Fucking. Chance.
I chuckled given his near riddle-like statement. “We all have weapons to use when necessary. It’s right timing that counts the most.”
“Yes, you’re right.” He turned to face me, extending his hand. “I thought I’d congratulate you on your upcoming nuptials. Willow will make a blushing bride.”
If the man had intended on raising my hackles, he’d failed, yet one of the first things I’d learned as a young adult was how to remain expressionless. It was also an excellent weapon.
It was obvious the news had already gotten out.
I would pat my father on the back later. Even in his grief, he was still a powerful leader.
The stage had been set. It was now up to the Stalker to snag the cheese in the mousetrap.
He would. I felt it in my bones.
“Yes, she will.”
“Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a few phone calls to make.” Davit studied me for a few seconds. My guess was he was attempting to determine if I was riled by everything that had occurred.
“Not at all.”
“ O Theós na chamogelá stin oikogéneiá sou .”
May God smile down on your family.
The sentiment coming from anyone else would seem as nothing but kind words for a tragic time. With Davit, there was a hidden meaning.
As soon as he walked away, Willow slid her arm around mine. “I’ve been congratulated for snagging such an incredible fiancé.” Her words were said with the same lilt I was used to, but I heard the glitch as well. She was fighting with her nerves and guilt just to get through this. I admired her even more.
“You have?”
“Yes. I thought you were waiting for a huge announcement.”
I laughed and tightened my arm over hers. “Why wait? There’s no time like the present. Besides, why not show off my beautiful bride to be.” Davit wasted no time, he and his men heading to a waiting dark sedan. I did notice the new leader had turned around, staring at me for a few seconds before climbing into the awaiting vehicle.
My hackles remained raised.
She gripped the emerald necklace I’d given her this morning, twisting the chain in her fingers. I’d yet to have time to explain the importance of her always wearing it. That would come during our exit from the event. As I’d done before, I was having second thoughts. Around her, I questioned everything.
“He’s here. Isn’t he?” she asked. “The Stalker.”
“Likely.”
Her sigh was intense and full of fear. “I’m nervous.”
“Everything will be fine.”
“I don’t know. I’m terrified I won’t be successful in helping you. I want to so badly.”
“Understandable, but I have faith in you.”
She leaned her head against my shoulders. “I’m glad one of us does.”
Eros had made it to the funeral, his face as furrowed as those of my two brothers. He’d sat beside my father the entire time during the service, providing friendship and comfort. His nod to Willow was more formal than anything, obviously gathering she was of some importance.
“Dimitrios. It’s good to see you, but I wish it was for any other reason,” Eros told me as he pulled me into a bear hug, clapping his hand against my back.
“I know. I’m glad you were able to attend.” As I pulled away, I noticed the sadness in the man’s eyes. He was younger than my dad by a few years, but had treated Leandro like a grandson since our grandfather had passed away when Leandro was still young.
“This must be Willow.”
“Yes, sir.”
He took her hand, squeezing before kissing her on the cheek. “You’ll have your hands full, my dear.”
She laughed. “I think it might be the other way around, but don’t worry, we’re perfect for each other. Hardheaded, refusing to follow rules, and very family oriented.”
“Yes, a perfect match. I’m sorry I won’t be able to make the reception this afternoon. I’m certain Cora has created an incredible feast to celebrate Leandro’s life. Business is taking too much out of my life.”
The tradition of providing a luncheon or huge reception for everyone after the burial service wasn’t uncommon in the United States or other countries, but we Greeks turned it into a huge party. It was a perfect location for the engagement announcement.
“Yes, my sweet mother had turned this into quite the event. We’ll miss seeing you there.”
He darted a glance toward Willow and it became apparent he had something to say. “There’s nothing my bride to be doesn’t know about what we’re dealing with, Eros. Say what you need to say.”
The man was still uncomfortable, adjusting his tie before speaking. “My sources indicate the Stalker could still be in town. I fear he’s gunning for your entire family.”
“Interesting news and of that I have no doubt.” Although it was exactly what I’d hoped was the case.
“I can tell in your eyes you’re up to something.” Eros pointed his finger at me.
“Nothing I can’t handle.”
A flash caught my attention from the right, an area leading to the street parking that had been established. Unfortunately, with the large crowd, it was impossible to determine what I was looking at.
Yet a strange set of sensations swept through my muscles, the tension increasing tenfold. “Willow, move behind the tree.” I kept my voice even, but she immediately realized something was terribly wrong.
“What is it?”
Eros turned around to face the direction I was looking in. “You’re thinking we have company.”
“Yes, I am.” Another flash and I knew what to expect.
Pop! Pop! Pop! Pop!
The series of gunshots came from a single direction. The crowd scattered, several people yelling from fear and confusion. When a single bullet slammed into the tree I’d mentioned to my bride to be, I reacted instantly, pushing her to the ground to safety and jerking my weapon free.
“Get down, Eros.” He never carried a weapon and when he wasn’t quick to respond, I yanked him down beside us.
The shooting continued, several of my soldiers getting off shots of their own.
Havros was protecting my mother and father, guiding them to safety as Christos rushed into the fray, trying his best to move the crowd out of harm’s way.
Everything happened fast, additional gunshots fired.
“Stay here, both of you,” I commanded, taking a quick glance from Willow’s pained eyes to Eros.
“I’ll keep her safe,” he yelled. “Go. Go!”
I took off running, heading to the right as an unknown vehicle tried to speed off. With both hands on the barrel, I got off several rounds. Christos joined me, both firing indiscriminately.
Until the car sped away.
“We’re damn lucky no one was killed,” Havros stated under his breath.
“The fuckers got away, but I shot one of the bastards,” Christos chimed in. He’d been pacing the floor of my office where we’d retreated to for ten minutes. We couldn’t waste but so much time given the event was supposed to be a celebration of life.
And because of what we were prepared to embark on.
“Aren’t you worried this shit is going to backfire?” Havros pushed.
“No. The fact the Stalker took such a risk means we have him worried that we’re closing in.” I only half believed that. I was still concerned we were being duped in some way. Thankfully, the family had been well protected, our soldiers doing their jobs as they’d been taught. With only minor injuries to a couple of guests, I was led to believe the family was their main target. Or perhaps just the man known as the Boss.
Christos took a gulp of his drink. “Dimitrios is right. We’re too far along and flushing the Stalker out seems like something that can occur.”
“At least the fucker is in town. If Shane is behind this, he’s worried about his sister. That will work in our favor.”
“What if he doesn’t give a shit about her?” Christos threw in.
I took a deep breath. From the memories I had of the young man, even though I hadn’t been impressed or even liked him before, I didn’t believe he’d purposely eliminate his sister. I prayed to God my thinking wasn’t a fool’s belief. “He won’t.”
“I hope you’re right.” Havros patted me on the arm.
“Didn’t either one of you find it interesting that the Armenian left just minutes prior to when the shooting began?” I looked from one to the other.
“True. There is no such thing as a coincidence in our world.” Christos lifted his glass. “I did find something out about his father as you asked.”
“What’s that?”
“There are reports the man is dead, killed by his own son. He was involved in the artistic community one day then disappeared. Rumors started flying in the Armenian neighborhoods.”
I turned my head slowly in my brother’s direction. “So Davit could have full access to all the power, wealth, and influence.”
Havros grunted. “I think we underestimated the prick.”
“Maybe. Christos, have a few of our men shadow Davit. I want to know what the fucker is doing at all times.”
“I’m already ahead of you on that task,” he told me. “Davit went back to his estate and hasn’t left.”
“Keep watch. Don’t have him killed. I want to talk to him. After the plan goes down.”
“Are you certain Willow is still up for doing this? She was rattled by the shooting.”
Yes, she was. She’d remained quiet, only answering yes or no to questions. My concern had me leaning toward cancelling at least tonight. “She’ll be fine.”
My little dove was important and I was determined nothing would happen to her.
Nothing.
As soon as Nico rushed into the room, I sensed things had been turned upside down. “What now?”
“Willow. She’s gone. Your mother said she was anxious and suddenly, she walked out.”