Chapter Two Hundred Forty-Seven

Sephie

Ivan, Viktor, and Misha went to the lobby that afternoon to look at the security footage of Giana meeting with the mystery man. They were hoping to be able to formulate a plan to grab everything the next afternoon so we could get answers as quickly as possible.

“You really think you can make it happen that quick?” I asked Ivan before they went downstairs.

“People are creatures of habit, princess. My guess is she does the same thing each time because it’s worked for her before. We just have to learn the pattern so we know where to interrupt it to get what we need,” he said,

I squinted my eyes at him. “I don’t know how I feel about loving your devious side this much,” I said.

Adrik asked me to stay for his first meeting of the afternoon. “You’re going to be happy you did,” he said, smirking at me. He wouldn’t give me anymore details than that.

“That means I have to put shoes back on. Is it going to be worth that?” I asked.

“I think so, but I promise to rub your feet later if you think it’s not,” he said, his eyebrow raised.

“You have excellent negotiation skills,” I said.

Stephen walked in the office as I slipped my heels back on. Vinny was behind him, along with his wife, Anna. Adrik caught my eye, with a clear “I told you” look on his face.

“Vinny!” I said.

“Ciao, bella!” he exclaimed as he opened his arms for a hug.

It’s so good to see you again,” I said, hugging her

see you again, too,” she said, her sweet smile on

met Anna before?” he asked me

the salon where Ms. Jackson gets her nails done. We went there first before they tortured me with shopping,” I said,

Please, come. Sit,” he said, after shaking her hand as well. He sat behind his desk, while I chose to lean against the cabinet behind his desk. One downside of wearing a skirt. I couldn’t hop up on the cabinet like normal. “How’s your father, Vinny? I’ve heard his treatments have been successful and they’re seeing some

almost didn’t come today. I don’t want to bother you with one more thing, sir,

stressed out. Did something happen?” I asked, now

Anna’s salon, sir. It’s in Vito’s area of the city. He’s increased the taxes so much that we can’t afford to pay them and still be

struggling against it. His anger

about it like a living thing, almost. Smoke was the easiest thing to compare it to. I learned to visualize it first, then I learned I could control it that way. I could easily increase or decrease the amount of smoke, or anger, at will. I also knew if flames showed up, then

Vinny and Anna, I tried to control his anger the same way I controlled mine. It took just a second after I put my hand on his shoulder, for him to feel calmer to me. He looked up at me, a clear look of surprise on his

anger level increased as he thought about these wonderful people being victimized by Vito’s thugs. I

but it still wasn’t enough. Business has been down because crime is increasing in the area. The police can’t keep up. It’s not their fault, I know. People are becoming scared to go out for fear of getting mugged. Or

money, but I don’t know what else to do. My

businesses around your shop that are in the

They all had windows smashed over the weekend. They threatened worse next time if we didn’t pay. The other businesses closed as well. The amount of money they’re demanding is completely

cleared his throat. “Sir, the community members…” He looked unsure about whether he should

about revolting against Vito, aren’t they?” I

me, his eyes wide. “You

part of town already. We heard there was potential for Vito and Niko’s areas. of the city, but haven’t gotten confirmation about them yet.” He sighed. He looked straight at Anna. “I’m sorry they vandalized your business. I’ll pay for the repairs for all the businesses, but I want you to remain closed for the time-being. I know it’s going to be hard and I apologize for that, but I need a little time to take care of this

taken care of.”

do you know if the people in Vito’s area are organizing?”

they are. Because Anna’s shop is in that part of town, they contacted both of us. They’re talking about revolting against Vito, just like you said, Sephie,” Vinny said.

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