But I do, and this isn’t about me being paranoid or overprotective of Mia.
This is about raw gut instinct.
Every time my mind slips and I think maybe I’m in the wrong, I right myself because betrayal is the only thing that makes sense about Eduardo’s death.
I’ve had them checked out thoroughly and men watching them. Each check has come up clean, and nobody has seen anything untoward. Nevertheless, there’s only so much watching and checking a person can do.Especially when you’re watching and checking men like mine.
They’re not stupid. They didn’t get to be my men for being stupid, and that’s what makes them ideal candidates to betray me.
“Everything looks set for this month, Boss, and the new buyers want to increase their current order,” Thiago concludes his speech with a proud smile.
I snap out of my daze so I can answer him properly. “I need you to look at the production schedule for the rest of the year before we agree. If production looks fine, we’re good to go.”
“I’ll get on to that straightaway.” He nods.
“We might also have another buyer from Russia,” Marcus cuts in, and I look over at him sitting next to Lorenzo, who suddenly looks more engaged.
“Tell me more,” I reply.
“It’s a small private clinic offering plastic surgery and various other cosmetic treatments.”
“They want to discuss a bigger contract in the new year,” Lorenzo adds.
We make money from people like that, but there are things I need to discuss before taking on any clinical-related contracts. Part of me still thinks I’m the good doctor.
“Email me the contact details, and I’ll speak to them.”
“Sure, I’ll get that done before we leave.”
“The other thing is, with the new supply coming in, we’ll need to stay in Bahia for the next week or so,” Carlos interrupts. “I’ve organized everything with my men to oversee things here if that happens.”
“That’s fine,” I reply, dipping my head.“Bahia is a priority.”
Bahia is where the plantations are located, along with the shipping company in Salvador. I suspect they’ll be away for at least two weeks. I don’t know what that will mean for me, but I have eyes on them.
“Great, then we’ll leave in two days.”
“Perfect.” I nod.
“Anything else, Boss?”Thiago asks.
“No. I’m happy with this. Good job. Let me know when you guys are heading out and the prospective date of your return.”
Thiago smiles and looks at Carlos in his habitual way, as if seeking that extra seal of approval. Carlos gives it with pride. He trained Thiago when I first took him on.
“Absolutely.”
“Is there anything more anyone else needs to discuss?”
They all shake their heads.
“That’s all, then. There’s nothing from me.” I straighten. “We’ll set up another meeting for two weeks’ time.”
They nod, and as they stand, I keep my gaze trained on them.
Thiago and Carlos are the first to leave, Marcus and Lorenzo next.
Cristiano and I stare at the door when it closes for a few seconds before glancing at each other.