Chapter 29
CHAPTER 29
“ N ever interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake.”
—Napoleon Bonaparte
Vadim
The saying was way too appropriate at this point in my life. It had been a catch phrase of my father’s when he was about to swoop in like a venomous snake. In biding my time, I’d set the perfect scene for what I hoped would be a final adventure of sorts.
I laughed as I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the damn bow tie for the fifteenth time. I loathed the monkey suits but, in this case, the party had been billed as the most glamorous event of the season. Hell, I’d even hired someone to hand gild the invitations, which had taken two full days. From there, they’d been hand delivered to each invited party along with a box of Lindt chocolates.
That had been Caroline’s idea, Lindt truffles her mother’s favorite.
A jazz quartet had been hired, two distinct caterers providing the most delectable treats New York had ever seen. Even Sofiya had hired a party decorator, something I hadn’t known even existed. And she and her sister had supervised with an iron fist.
The entire estate looked gorgeous, twinkling lights in every tree, small tents in several locations. So many flowers had been brought in that the smell was overwhelming. It had all been with the intent of setting the perfect scene.
And in my mind, we’d accomplished that.
The light knock forced me to suck in my breath. “Come.”
Aleksander walked inside, also looking sophisticated as hell. “Don’t you look dapper.”
“Dapper? How old are you?”
“According to you, very old. But not as old as you are. You also look tense.”
I was frowning. “Just eager to get the party started. Is everything in position?”
“You bet it is. The staging area is set with soldiers keeping watch on every corner of the grounds just in case our illustrious guests try and either make a run for it or bring in their own men. I still find it difficult to believe the number of people involved in this.”
“You had to know the governor was.”
“Yes, and I suspected at the district attorney and two judges minimum, but the number of corporate moguls including Caroline’s father is unusual. And two congressmen. What is this world coming to?” He laughed.
“Corruption isn’t left to just bad men like us.”
“I have confirmed they were more interested in using the land they’d purchased for keeping their party favors, including South American diamonds.”
“It sounds to me as if they are attempting to emulate the big boys, such as ourselves.”
“I guess so. It would seem millions wasn’t enough for them. I guess if they figured the crime syndicates were out of the picture, no one would be the wiser.”
“Indeed.” Joe had also managed to unlock one last file from the drive. It contained a detailed plan on planting evidence before stealing billions of dollars from our various funds. Given it would look like the Four Horsemen, as I’d come to call the twisted alliance I’d entered into, had extorted the money if discovered, no one would care.
Or so they’d believed. They’d also underestimated what I was capable of.
Big mistake.
I stood back, giving myself a nod of approval. “And our less than illustrious guests? I assume they are arriving on time and with bells on?”
“Confirmed. Do you honestly think they’d miss something of this magnitude?”
Laughing, I shook my head. “Have you seen Caroline?”
“Not yet. I know she wants to look perfect.”
Why was I suddenly nervous? I rolled my eyes.
“You like this woman.”
He’d said that more than once over the last few days. “Yes, I do. Okay? Is that what you want to hear?”
“Yep. So you’re keeping her.”
“When we’re finished, she deserves the choice of returning to her life.”
He cocked his head as if I was an idiot. “I think she’s made it perfectly clear what she wants. Now, it’s up to you to open your eyes.”
Sighing, I wanted to retort but all I needed to concentrate on was the night’s chaos. And I had every belief that’s what it would be.
“Can I join the party? Do you have time?”
Hearing Sofiya’s voice brought a smile to my face. “I always have time for my daughter.”
“I’ll leave you two alone,” Aleksander said as he grinned, clapping me on the back. “Guests are arriving. I’m certain you’ll want to make a grand entrance.”
I laughed. “Yeah, we’ll see.”
After he left, Sofiya moved toward me, adjusting my bow tie. “You could never tie one of these.”
“And where did you learn to do so, daughter of mine?”
“From you.” When she was satisfied, she patted my chest. “You look amazing, but Caroline looks… incredible.”
“I’m sure she does. Are you okay with this?”
“Perfectly fine, Dad. I’m looking forward to seeing you in action since you never allow that.”
“Well, you know what to do if anything goes south, right?”
“Yes, Dad. Grab Caroline and Daniella. Head to your office and enter the panic room where we will stay until someone we trust and who knows the code comes to retrieve us. I know the routine.”
“Good. I don’t need to worry about any of you.”
“Stop worrying. You just take care of your fiancée. And do not tell me it’s all fake. I know you too well. You love her.”
Coughing, I studied her beaming face. “Is that so wrong?”
“Not even a little bit. You deserve to live your life and I’m happy for the both of you.”
“Uh-huh. What’s on your mind? I can tell there is something.”
She shrugged and backed away. “I, um, did something I hope you’re not angry with me about.”
“What did you do?”
The way she looked at me brought almost instant sadness. I hadn’t seen that expression in a long time. “I gave her Mom’s necklace, the one you gave to me. I hope you’re not mad. I wanted her to have something special since she’s going to be a member of our family.”
I wasn’t certain if anything had touched me so greatly. “That’s beautiful.”
“You don’t think Mom would be upset with me. Do you?”
As I pulled her into a hug, I allowed my thoughts to drift to Tonja. I could almost see her smiling face as she peered down at us. “Not at all. Your mother loved you with all her heart. If this makes you happy then I know she’s happy.”
“I hope so. And I want you happy. You deserve it. Daniella and I are big girls now. We can take care of ourselves.”
Being able to see the love and adoration in my daughter’s eyes told me I’d done something right after all the wrongs I’d committed in my life. “Did I ever tell you that you’ve turned out to be an amazing woman?”
“Yes, but you can tell me again.”
I laughed and pulled away. “Just be careful tonight.”
“Don’t worry. I will be.”
We both heard a rustling sound and our attention was drawn to the door.
Very few times in my life had my breath been taken away but seeing Caroline standing with her hair swept up, tendrils of blonde highlighting her face, the dress hugging every curve to perfection, and the necklace my daughter had given her surrounding her long, lovely neck, I was in awe.
“Wow,” I said and allowed Sofiya to walk away. “You look… amazing. The dress is magnificent.”
Caroline sauntered into the room as only she could do, even winking at my daughter. “What? This old thing?”
I couldn’t help myself, pulling her into a heated embrace. With her tall heels, I didn’t need to drag her onto her tiptoes to kiss her.
“Get a room,” Sofiya teased before leaving.
That wouldn’t be necessary. Later I’d have her all to myself. I thrust my tongue inside, tasting cherries. I could do this for hours.
She rolled her hands up and down my jacket, purring into the moment of intimacy.
When I finally pulled away, I wiped the tiny smudge of lipstick from the top of her mouth, pulling my thumb into my mouth and sucking.
“You do know how to make a girl feel special.”
“Easy to do around you. Are you ready for our soirée?”
“Psst. No one says soirée any longer.”
“Well, this old guy does. For tonight only. Seriously. You can handle this?”
“I’ll be fine. I know my role and will enjoy watching my parents’ faces when you announce your lovely bride to be.”
The invitations had mentioned an engagement party and there was already speculation on the street that I’d made an alliance with the Cosa Nostra, marrying Stefano’s daughter. Or that it was the mystery girl from the governor’s ball. That was already some delicious fuel, which would give a nice push for the players to attend the event.
“Just know that you’re likely to experience some unwanted emotions when that happens.”
“Stop worrying. I’ve been preparing for this moment my entire life. I’ll keep myself occupied in the kitchen drinking wine until you text me.” She blew me a kiss and backed away while I promptly growled.
She had that kind of strong effect on me.
When she was gone, I moved to my dresser, pulling out my favorite weapon. A man could never be too careful. I had soldiers everywhere but I didn’t trust the group of men involved.
Smirking, I headed out of my room, taking my time walking down the stairs. The VIP lounge, as it had been called on the invitation to the select few, was a special tent complete with courses of Beluga caviar and snails flown in from France. There were specialty cheeses, none of which could be purchased in the United States.
Of course there was a high-dollar bar complete with bottles of Old Rip Van Winkle bourbon and Macallan 1926, two favorites of the boys. In addition, I’d had flown in Cuban cigars for the outing.
When I arrived, both Aleksander and Nikolay were already holding court, our targets as well as a few other choice participants allowed into the hallowed space. That included two reporters from national papers, although they weren’t widely known. It would offer them their fifteen minutes of fame in catching one hell of a story.
I moved to the bar before anyone noticed me, ordering a scotch.
“The man of the hour,” Governor Chipino said as he flanked my side.
By him were the two judges on the list, both men of power, one a possible candidate for the next opening on the Supreme Court. Their lovely wives were standing together on the side. I had to wonder where the men’s mistresses were.
I’d taken the time to find out all the dirt I could find. Holding court and all the cards did have its privileges. “Gentlemen. I am very glad you could make it.”
“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Judge Brannon said.
“Have you tried the 1926 Macallan?” I offered, more amused than I thought I’d be.
The governor lifted his glass. “Excellent. You have amazing tastes. I also wanted to thank you for the incredible cigar.” He took a puff, blowing the smoke in my face. Did he really think that was going to bother me?
I took a sip of my drink.
“Who is this girl?” Judge Martin asked.
“Someone very special. She’ll be along shortly. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I do need to mingle just a little.”
“Of course,” the governor answered for all three of them. I could tell he was curious as to what I was doing.
Let them sweat for a few more minutes. I headed toward Gregory Randall, forever to be known as the instigator of the dummy corporation. He certainly knew how to convince friends and influence people.
“Gregory. So good of you to come,” I told him, holding out my hand.
He accepted but looked at me warily. “You and I don’t like each other, Vadim. That’s why I’m surprised you invited my wife and myself.”
“Nonsense. I think we just got off on the wrong foot all those years ago. You’re a businessman just like I am. We’re both attempting to make something of ourselves.”
“Only you do it on the wrong side of the law.”
I couldn’t help but laugh. “Come now. You know my businesses are all very much on the up and up.”
“I’m no fool, Vadim. However, this is a party. I guess we can dispense with business.”
“Yes, although I do think you’ll appreciate the special guest for the evening.”
I glanced at Aleksander, who’d been tasked with the announcement. Why not grandstand a little bit? After all, it was for a damn good cause.
He whistled so the conversation would stop.
“Ladies and gentlemen. I do hope you’re enjoying the party,” he said and lifted a single eyebrow as he studied me. “We are here tonight to celebrate an upcoming union that will have an effect on each and every one of us. At least in some way.”
I could tell he’d captured their attention. He was damn good at drama.
“I’ve worked with Vadim Chernoff for years. I’ve been his friend for longer. He has worked hard to achieve all that he has, but he never forgot to take time out for his daughters.”
On cue, they walked in, both with boyfriends attached at the hip. I had to admit I wasn’t pleased just because I hadn’t been told who they were so I could check them out.
I could hear Caroline’s voice in my head telling me to stop being so overprotective.
“However,” Aleksander continued. “He never took time for himself. Not personally at least. Which is why I’m so pleased that he’s found the right woman. Please welcome the lovely Miss Caroline Randall, Vadim’s fiancée.”
Everything about this night was a show but as she walked in front of the tent, searching for me immediately, I’d never felt such a sense of pride or desire in my life. I’d never allowed myself to believe either in second chances or in fresh starts. I didn’t deserve either.
But by God, I was going to take this one and run with it.
The gasps were exactly what I’d been hoping for. I took a split second to notice both her father’s and mother’s faces. They were more than just stunned. They were angry.
Aww… I felt so bad for them.
Not a chance in hell.
As she advanced, finally reaching me, guests began to clap. I was happier than I’d been in a long time, more so than I believed possible.
I wrapped my arms around her, pulling her close. “My beautiful, cherished one.”
“My big, bad wolf.” As we kissed, the gasps turned into oohs and ahhs.
We pulled away from each other and she winked. Several people came up to congratulate us and lo and behold as expected, the Randalls attempted to make a dash for the exit.
Nikolay and his men stood in front of them, refusing to allow that to happen.
“Thank you all very much. Caroline and I are so happy to share our first of many special days.” Champagne was being delivered all around. I handed her a glass and it was a pleasure seeing the adorable but smug look on her face.
She was thoroughly enjoying herself. How could I blame her?
“Yes, thank you all for being here. I finally found a man of honor and integrity among a sea of snakes and losers,” my beautiful fiancée said as she lifted her flute in her father’s direction. Her gesture was noticed, including by the two reporters, who’d already taken special interest. Perhaps everyone could smell blood in the air. “Vadim is everything a girl could want and more. Kind. Compassionate. Giving. Loving. Everything I wasn’t used to. We are very happy.”
I leaned over, kissing the side of her face. “Well done, bad girl.”
She snuggled up to me, cooing as only she could do. “I do try.”
“While this is a celebration,” I told the crowd, “it’s also a cleansing of sorts.”
Another cued moment, all three of the other mafia leaders heading into the tents with their wives. To say it caused a unique wave of panic was an understatement.
I waited until they were in position to continue. “In our special VIP tent are some truly special people who help rule our government as well as various corporations. You are truly remarkable men. And you might be wondering why Dons Marino, Barsamian, and O’Rourke have joined us. Well, I am happy to say the four of us have entered an alliance to stop city-wide corruption.”
“What?” the governor barked, obviously distraught.
“Yes. Now I am curious, gentlemen. Do you know the name Joshua Smith? Or perhaps you would prefer Blackbird.” I allowed the name drop to help them realize what they were about to face. “You should since you hired him to hack into all four of our systems to try and convict us of bogus crimes. Well, you see, the mistakes you made were underestimating us and the fact we might decide to work together.”
Caroline couldn’t help herself, laughing softly as she enjoyed her champagne.
“To that end, we have evidence of that wrongdoing as well as several other atrocities that your little gang have entered into in an effort to deceive the city, your constituents, and the good people of the Big Apple. I’m afraid we can’t allow that to continue any longer.”
With that, members of the FBI entered the picture and the tent. I’d sent them the evidence days before, allowing them to collect their own data. I was pleased they’d allowed me to take the lead, something I would remember in the future.
“Gentlemen, you are finished. Now, it’s time to party.”
It was said that powerful, corrupt men became nothing more than little boys begging for their freedom and promising to be good in the future, when they were caught. That’s what we all witnessed in the next several minutes as the members of the odd group were read their rights and carted away, her father included.
I was proud of my lovely Caroline, but I also felt something I’d long since thought dead.
Love.
I’d known love with Tonja and my children, but in feeling it with this amazing woman, I felt as if my life had come full circle. I was finally in a place where I belonged.
And I would never, ever let her go.