523 Advice

(Mia)

Gus walks through the living room slowly, his gaze flicking over the ornate furnishings, the heavy curtains, the marble-topped tables.

His fingers trail along the edge of a sideboard, and for a moment, he looks lost in thought.

"You okay?"

He glances at me. "It's strange being here without her and having all her stuff still here. I'll see that it's all collected. There's some valuable pieces here."

"Judy's gone," I say bluntly, shrugging my shoulders. "You'll have to get used to it. This place is part of Brennan Industries now, I believe."

His mouth tightens, and he doesn't respond. Instead, he turns his attention to the window, looking out at the street below. I don't know what he's thinking, and honestly, I don't care. Gus being here isn't my concern-what he wants is. I know he says he's here to pick up Mama, but that doesn't fool me.

"You didn't come here to reminisce," I say. "What do you want?"

He turns back to me, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I want to know where your grandfather is."

My stomach flips, but I keep my expression neutral. "He's in custody. You know that."

"Don't lie to me, Mia," he says, his voice low and dangerous. "You and I both know he's not in custody. So where is he?"

I bristle, lifting my chin. "How should I know? I haven't spoken to him since I gave my statement and they arrested him."

Gus steps closer, his presence suddenly overwhelming. "You're lying."

begin to feel deep inside that my

my

trying to play both sides, Mia, you need to think very carefully about what you're doing. Your grandfather isn't the kind of man

his voice remains firm. "If you want to survive, you'd better think about who you're siding with. Because if you

respond, Mama enters the room, her smile bright but tentative.

she asks Gus as she

demeanor shifting instantly. "Of course. I have a wonderful lunch

to turn, but then she pauses, patting her pockets. "I forgot my purse. I'll be right back." She disappears down

my arms, stepping closer to him. "You'd better watch yourself with her," I say quietly, my voice

eyebrow. "And

if you hurt her, I'll

remember who my grandfather is. He might be estranged from my mother, but if he finds out you've

Mia? What's

running to anyone," I snap. "But don't think for a second that I'll just stand by

leans in slightly, his

the one

And if

à outmaneuver your net

better be damo sure you know what you're

doing," I say, my voice steady despite the knot

standing, it looks like you're in over your head."

returns, her purse in hand. She smiles at us, oblivious to

she says, her tone light. "I'm very much looking forward to talking with you without a

a wonderful lunch. "Mama, do you have your key?" "Yes, Mia. I do thank

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