Page 28 of Dangerous Intent

“I wish he wasn’t.” I gazed over at my father as he talked business with Lucas. “But we will emerge as the top family.”

“Tell me what you need me to do, and I’ll get it done.”

“You focus on getting that new club up and running so we have an excellent source of revenue and a convenient way to manage the cartel’s funds.” I finished my drink. “I’ll take care of the dealership.”

“And Collins?” Milo arched a brow. “Because I know you’re not going to let that go.”

“Would you?”

“Fuck no. He shot at us.” He motioned toward Lissia. “And hurt her.”

“Milo,” Rosalie called from across the room. “I have a question for you.”

“Your new mother-in-law is a pain in the balls.” Milo chugged his vodka. “If she’s not lusting after Dad, she’s asking me to set her up with someone.”

“Keep her away from Dad,” I said. “That’s a nightmare none of us need.”

Lissia waved at me before bringing her champagne flute to her soft, sexy lips. I glanced at my watch and pointed up, indicating I wanted to go upstairs with her. She smirked, but from her lustful gaze, I knew she was ready.

As Milo made his way across the room to answer to Rosalie’s beckoning, my father joined me.

“It’s time, isn’t it?” I asked.

“It is.” His lips formed a hard line. “I’ll do what has to be done.”

“I hate that you have to go again.”

“I do too, but now that I’ve provided Juan with the information on Miguel’s death, my initial mission is complete.” He patted my shoulder. “We don’t have to use burner phones or stay out of touch for long periods of time. Once I handle this situation, I’ll come home and take the helm again.”

“Milo has a good team in place for you, but try not to take unnecessary chances.”

“Like kidnapping a rival family’s heiress?”

“I guess I deserved that.”

“You definitely deserved it.” He smiled as Lissia approached us. “But I’m convinced she’s worth it.”

“If you’re talking about me…” Lissia hooked her arm in mine. “You’re right, I am worth it.”

“I was just saying goodbye to my father,” I said. “Although, he assures me that he won’t be gone as long this time.”

“He seems like a man who keeps his word.” Lissia stepped toward my dad. “But I’m going to hold you to that promise. Come back to your sons as soon as you can.”

“It isn’t just them I need to get back to.” He leaned in and kissed her cheek. “I have a new daughter too.”

“Thank you.” She hugged him. “I’m going to make a kick-ass Accetti too.”

“I don’t have a single doubt.” My father shot her his signature charismatic grin. “Your first order of business is to take care of my son.”

“Okay, but I don’t cook.”

“She does make a pretty tasty brownie.” I shrugged. “From a box mix.”

“Well, it’s a good thing we have people to cook for us.” My father winked. “I’m going to go finalize things with Milo.”

“I can do that with you,” I said.

“Absolutely not.” He leaned in and hugged me. “I’ll be in touch.”