I’m not a little girl who needs to have basic things explained to her. I know that peace and prosperity will last so long and then a boss or another family in our clan will want change with something and the political drama will start up again.
Being a don means putting one fire out after another and dealing with many different personalities all the time is wearing thin.
I can understand why dons want to whack half their crews sometimes.
Is it just my patience or the fact that I miss Sal terribly and my pussy is itching for a road trip . . . or a quick ride in Dad’s jet! I forget that I have more toys at my disposal now.
Ha, I have all the perks of Dante! Imagine that.
And imagine that I hated him and his family so much my attempt on Sal could have taken me out and with just cause.
But I hope to be a long way from here soon. The world is open to me, money is flowing in, and I think I need a vacation.
Sal surely deserves one. I need to do some research and plan it. I’ll surprise him with a trip as soon as it’s convenient.
Making love with Sal is like a dream and I can’t believe I’m here.
I had time to adjust my mind from work and living in the compound and meetings as I needed to set up new businesses to clean money.
Turns out cocaine is a huge money maker and the further I can ship it and truck it, the more I get for it.
I bought myself a few things, no longer reliant on my dad or brothers for my monthly allowance, and it feels good. Of course, I do have my own brand of workout wear and loungewear from my time as a fighter and trainer.
Endorsement money is great, there’s no way I’m working that hard and not making a living off my mad skills. One way or another . . .
We moved to the bedroom before evening, and before I know it, Sal is stirring beside me and birds are chirping.
I can finally hug Sofia today.
Sal grumbles, “Where do you think you’re going?” as he pulls me back into bed and whispers sweet things into my ear in Italian.
It’searly afternoon and we meet Sofia at an outdoor piazza with beautiful fountains that have been restored in Florence, just under the huge statue of Michelangelo where everyone drives by in their limos on Saturdays to pose for traditional wedding pictures.
Sofia is standing near Enzo getting a gelato. Enzo looks like he’s recovered, and I give him a hug and thank him for his help.
He’s shy and gruff as he mumbles, “Don’t mention it,” but I’ve never had so many loyal friends and employees help me before and to think that he came to fight on Dante’s behalf touches me.
Sofia is taking in the fountain eating her favorite lemon-flavored gelato in a yellow sundress with white spots it. It’s so retro fifties and looks adorable on her.
“Sofia!” I shout because I’m so excited I run to her and engulf with my arms as she turns around.
Luckily for me, she’s fast on her feet and we keep from falling into the water as we are laughing like teenagers and off balance as we hug and struggle to remain upright.
Sal is laughing behind me.
Part of it is the two of us reunited but the other part is that he’s just plain ecstatic that I’m here. In Florence, and with him.
I can’t blame him.
For a while, it was easier for me to just stay at the Conti compound and work around the clock, but I don’t want it to consume my life like it did Dad’s.
And I don’t want to turn into my brothers and live a lonely existence.
“Is it you?” Sofia teases and she’s all smiles but I can still see the fear in her eyes, even with me.
“Of course, who else do you think would see you today?” I joke. “Relax, he’s gone. You’re free. Just promise me I get to approve of your next husband,” I joke, treating her like normal and hoping it will force her back into society.
“I don’t know if I can ever go back toCasale de Sole, even though it’s where we both grew up and the compound is nearby.”