“I thought Killian said he had a relationship with the Italians? Isn’t that girl he likes Italian?”
Callum nods. “You pay attention. Yes, he does. With the Catalini family, but Georgio isn’t a Catalini. He’s part of one of the other families. Not quite as powerful, but strong enough.”
“So Georgio is not the kind of Italian Killian would want me to end up with?”
“I wouldn’t say that. If he would make you happy, the partnership would not be a bad thing. Since the Catalinis do not have a strong hold here or in Vegas, it wouldn’t be seen as a slight to them.”
I take a deep breath. “I don’t want to be with him though.”
Callum gives me a knowing smile. “I think you’d prefer someone closer to home.”
My cheeks redden. “Like you said before. Kai risked himself for me today. Why wouldn’t I want a man who is willing to do that for me?”
“Indeed, Cleo. You should be with a man who would walk through fire to get to you. Who would gladly give his own life for yours. I’ll do whatever I can to make sure you don’t settle for less.”
I give him a sad smile. “We both know that’s not how it works in this world.”
“Usually, no, but it seems one of your suitors has those qualities. Trust the system, Cleo.”
Things at homehave been weird. Father, as I’ve taken to calling him now, hasn’t bothered me, thank god, but the tension is still filling the house.
Callum hasn’t left my side the past couple of days. He changed the locks on my door, giving me a key to it so I can come and go as I want, but urging me to stay inside as much as possible.
Staying cooped up has been killing me though, so that’s why I asked him to arrange my next date.
I didn’t really want to be going out with Georgio, but Callum said we had to keep up appearances. Letting the Italians know I preferred Kai would start more trouble than it’s worth.
Besides that, Callum is still investigating the turmoil in the ranks here in Chicago.
Seems like someone has been whispering about a rebellion against the current rule.
I’m surprised Killian hasn’t been back. Usually he would have been on the first plane to dispel these rumors and show his strength. I’ve seen it in the past.
He might be the leader, but there are always some small fish wanting to be the big fish.
Father might have sheltered me, but it didn’t mean I couldn’t hear the guards whispering. I know Killian rules with an iron fist, only showing mercy for women and children.
“What’s going on with you today? You’re distracted.”
I focus back on the man in front of me. He has a sneer on his face, as if he cannot believe I am not giving him my entire attention.
I smile at him. “I’m here. You were telling me about your mother’s famous pasta dish.”
“I was saying that she said she would be happy to teach you, although it will never taste like hers. It would still be nice to be able to have it every once in a while at home.” He shrugs.
I nod with fake interest. “Yeah. I’m a great cook. Does your mother live close to you?”
He shakes his head. “She lives here with my father. When we are engaged, I will stay here as much as I can, but she will help you plan the wedding.”
I attempt to keep my blank face on. I don’t like the sound of that.
Still, I agree. “That would be lovely. I bet she has such amazing taste.”
His face lights up. “She does. You’ll love her.”
“I can’t wait. You know I don’t think I ever asked. Why did you decide to put in an offer on me?”
His smile falters. “What do you mean?”
