Page 66 of Mafia Scars

It was the first time I’d ever seen Raphael stunned to silence. Goddamn, she was good.

Better than good.

Raphael looked at me, then returned his gaze to Amelia. “Okay, we’ll talk later.”

Just like that, it was done.

“What now, boss?” I asked her, lingering on the last syllable ofboss. She smiled too.

“We get the diamonds, secure them here in the vault, and draw out Tag and anyone else who’s working for him. Until then, we only speak to the people who need to know. We trust no one else.”

“Got it.”

I smiled at her, pride taking over. I loved how strong she was. Her resilience in everything. Didn’t matter what was thrown at her.

“Got it,” Raphael said too and smirked.

This was going to be very interesting indeed.

“Luc, can I speak to you in private?” she asked.

Hell yes, she could do whatever she wanted to me. In private and in public. I didn’t give a fuck, just as long as she never stopped touching me.

“Sure.”

She cocked her head to the side, motioning for me to come outside.

Raphael watched me as I walked past him.

I sensed he wanted to say something but held back.

I followed her out into the garden, where she’d rushed off to earlier.

“I’m going to stay here tonight,” she began.

I stifled a groan. “You’re mad at me?”

“No, I feel I have to.”

“I get it. You should get reacquainted. I guess no matter how good or bad he is, he did spend the last decade trying to protect you.”

Something flickered in her eyes. “Yeah, he did. He did what he did to keep me safe.” That warmth that I always saw when she looked at me filled her gorgeous eyes. “I’m sorry for what I said earlier. This isn’t about changing.”

“No. Is that what you wanted to see me about, boss?” I gave her a small smile.

“Yes, and to ask for your help.”

“Really? You think you need to ask for my help?” I chuckled.

“Yes, it’s better to ask than to assume.”

“You agreed with my idea, boss.”

“Stop calling me that.” She grimaced and wrinkled her pretty nose.

I reached out and touched her face. “You shock the hell out of me, you know that?”

“Your plan was better. Plus, he can’t keep doing this.”