Page 65 of Craving Revenge

When we walk out of the cellar, I order Santi, “Have the men get rid of the body.”

“Yes, boss.”

While Dad goes to get me a fresh shirt, I take a seat on one of the couches in the living room of the cottage and dig the round out of my pocket.

Staring at the inscription and thinking about what the shooter said, my gut is one hundred percent certain there’s a third party involved.

Someone wants the Cosa Nostra to resume the war with the Yakuza.

Chapter 19

Yuki

After Samantha left, I washed all my new clothes and spent the entire afternoon rearranging my closet. The short dresses and lingerie have been packed back into my three bags, ready to be donated.

I got the idea from Samantha when she told Bianca to clean out her closet.

As soon as I’m done, I take a quick shower and put on a long skirt, one of the bowtie tops Samantha loves so much, and a pair of comfy sneakers. As soon as I’m dressed, I hurry to the bathroom to see what the outfit looks like in the large mirror that spans over the entire wall behind the tub.

My gaze locks on my reflection, and a wide smile forms on my face as an intense wave of happiness washes through my chest.

I look like all the girls I always admired.

Feeling emotional, I stare at myself for a few minutes before I head downstairs so I can prepare dinner.

I don’t have a lot of time, so I’m making mac and cheese.

Just as I place a pot on the stove, I hear familiar footsteps, and my heart skips a beat. Spending evenings with Augusto, I’ve gotten to know a whole different side of him.

A side I like very much.

When Augusto comes into the kitchen, I immediately notice tired lines on his face and worry stirs in my chest.

The moment he sees me, a smile tugs at the corner of his mouth, and admiration fills his eyes. “I love the outfit.” He nodshis approval as he comes closer. “This looks much better than the short dresses. Now I don’t have to worry about men drooling over your legs.”

He sounds possessive, which is a new experience for me.

No. Maybe just a little protective.

“I’m glad you like it.”

I’m in for a surprise when he pulls me against his chest, and as he lets out an exhausted sigh, I get the urge to return the hug. Especially after everything he’s done for me.

Giving in, I wrap my arms around him, but he jerks before pulling away. “Sorry. My side’s a little tender.”

My eyes widen as they fly to his face. “Did you get hurt?”

“A failed assassination attempt. Nothing to worry about.”

Shock shudders through me as I gasp. My first instinct is to check his wound, but not feeling comfortable enough, I remain standing where I am.

He sits down on one of the stools, and taking hold of my hand, he gives me a gentle look. “Do you have any idea who would want to start a war between the Yakuza and the Cosa Nostra?”

Kuso! I hope I don’t get in trouble. Things are going so well, I don’t want something to ruin it.

I hesitate before I shake my head. “I was never told anything.”

“It was worth a shot.” Augusto glances at the pot. “Don’t worry about making dinner. Let’s order in.” His gaze returns to me. “What are you in the mood for?”