Page 6 of Claimed By the Enemy

“What kind of rumors?”

Caruso’s smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “The kind that suggests you’ve brought a viper into your nest, figlio. A Bellini, working in your company. Living in your home.”

The temperature in the room seems to drop ten degrees. Raff looks tense, though he doesn’t speak.

“I’m not sure what you’re referring to,” I say carefully.

“Sophie Bellini.” Caruso’s voice is soft, conversational. “Daughter of Marco Bellini. The same Marco Bellini who tried to destroy your father all those years ago.”

“That’s an interesting theory.”

“It’s not a theory, Domenico. It’s a fact. And the fact that you’ve allowed her not just into your company but into your personal life…” He shakes his head sadly. “Your father would be devastated.”

Rage builds in my chest, hot and immediate. “My father’s opinion is irrelevant, considering he’s been dead for sixteen years.”

“Which is exactly why you need guidance from those who knew him. Who understood his principles.” Caruso leans forward, lowering his voice. “This girl is poison, figlio. She’s here for revenge, and every day you allow her to remain is another day she can plan your destruction.”

“What are you suggesting?”

“That you look weak, Domenico. Completely outmaneuvered by a Bellini. Your father would be ashamed.” Caruso leans forward. “People are talking. Saying you’ve gone soft. That you’ve let a woman make a fool of you.”

The pause stretches long enough to be meaningful. When Caruso speaks again, his words are measured, careful.

“Problems like this have a way of resolving themselves if one is creative about solutions. People disappear all the time in this city. Accidents happen. Sometimes it’s the kindest outcome for everyone involved.”

The suggestion hangs in the air like a toxic cloud. Raff has gone completely still, and I can feel his shock even without looking at him.

“You’re suggesting I make Sophie Bellini disappear,” I say flatly.

“I’m suggesting you consider all your options.” Caruso’s smile is cold. “Before she makes that choice for you.”

He stands, straightening his jacket. “Think about it, Domenico. Your father built an empire by making difficult decisions. Sometimes the right choice isn’t the easy one.”

“And sometimes,” I say, rising to face him, “the right choice is telling well-meaning friends to mind their own fucking business.”

Caruso’s eyebrows rise slightly. “Careful, figlio. Loyalty to the wrong people has destroyed better men than you.”

“Is that a threat?”

“It’s advice. From someone who cares about your welfare.” He moves toward the door, then pauses. “Though I do hope you’ll give my words serious consideration. It would be unfortunate if more drastic measures became necessary.”

The door closes behind him with a soft click, leaving Raff and me alone in the suddenly oppressive silence.

“Jesus Christ, Dom,” Raff breathes. “What the hell was that about?”

I sink back into my chair, mind racing. Caruso’s visit wasn’t random. Someone told him about Sophie, which means her presence here isn’t as secret as I’d believed. And if Caruso knows, others know too.

“Dom.” Raff’s voice is sharp now. “Talk to me. Who is Sophie Bellini?”

I could tell him. Should tell him, probably. Raff has been my closest friend since college, the one person I trust without reservation. But this secret feels too big, too dangerous to share.

“It’s complicated,” I say finally.

“Uncomplicate it.”

I meet his eyes, seeing genuine concern there. “Sophie Greco isn’t who she claimed to be when she applied for the job. She’s been working under a false identity.”

“And you knew this how long?”