“Raf has the Marino Famiglia’s support,” I continue as Filippo sits back and listens. “That means muscle and money. You’re aware our relationship with them will be complicated, but they’llcover our debts, and we’ll continue to run our businesses as we see fit. Corrado will have none of that. Even if he gets creative, it’s unlikely he’ll be able to dig us out of our hole.”
Filippo nods slowly and glances at Luca. “You can guarantee what she’s saying?”
“Absolutely. I have my Don’s full backing.”
“We need you to tell us where Corrado’s hiding.” I stare at Luca. My stomach’s a wreck with worry. If he turns us down, I don’t know where else we’ll go. There are other Capos we can try, but Filippo’s by far our best bet. But if he thinks we’re a bad decision, then I can’t imagine any of the others will want to take the risk.
Filippo slowly stands. He walks over to a side table and pours himself a glass of liquor. He swirls it around, staring at the window as he takes a long and thoughtful drink. “I’ve been in this business a long time,” he says, sounding strangely sad. “I respected your father, but he made some questionable choices. Those choices led us here, to this situation. How can I be sure your brother is going to be a better fiscal steward of the Famiglia?”
“I’m going to make sure of it.” I surprise myself with how sure I am. Barely a few weeks ago, I was thinking about running away and never coming back, but now that feels like an entirely different lifetime.
The Famiglia is my future. Luca and the baby are everything. If that means keeping Raf in line, then so be it. I can do that much for my family at least.
Filippo frowns slightly. “I need more than that. And please, don’t insult me like Corrado did by offering money. I’m plenty rich. This is about stability.”
“Any large business expenditure will require your approval. We’ll have a three-tiered voting system. You, Raf, and Luca, each to represent different stakeholders.”
He looks interested in the idea. “Can we put this in writing?”
“I’d prefer if she didn’t, at least for now,” Luca cuts in. “After things are settled, we can deal with the legalities.”
“Which means I have to trust you.” Filippo tilts his head, considering. “You understand this means you’re giving me a lot of power?”
“I understand.” But what’s the fucking alternative? Raf will be pissed, but I’ll handle him. “It’s for the good of the family.”
“Then I accept.” He holds out a hand. I stand and go to him. His grip is tight, and he stares into my eyes. “He’s at the old firehouse.”
It takes a moment for that to sink in. “You mean, that’s where Corrado’s hiding?”
“With about a dozen of his best men, but yes. You’ll find him there.”
I look back at Luca. He seems thoughtful. “We found an address the other day. I think I know exactly where you’re talking about. You’re sure he’s there?”
“He’s there.” Filippo releases my hand. “Be careful, Fiorella. I’m putting a lot of faith in you and your husband. I believe your brother will be a decent Don, but he’ll need some steering at first.”
“I hope you can provide him with all your experience.”
Filippo walks us to the door. He seems much warmer now that the deal is finished. “I wish you both the best of luck,” he says, smiling and clapping Luca on the back as they shake hands. When the door closes, Luca’s smirk entirely fades.
“That fucking rat,” he mutters and stalks away.
“What’s wrong?”
“You do realize we just gave him more power than any Capo should ever have? A vote on all business expenditures is like calling him the second Don.”
“What else should we have done?”
“Absolutely nothing. He’s just a clever bastard, that’s all.” Luca glances at me and pulls me against his side. “You did well in there. I’m proud of you.”
Warmth fills my belly. “Really?”
“You negotiated. You did the deal. Even when it looked uncomfortable, you didn’t back down.” He stops walking and faces me. He kisses me lightly, and the brush of his lips sends a fire into my spine. “You’re in the business now.”
“I am,” I agree, kissing him again, getting a little greedy.
“It suits you.”
“You think so?”
