Page 63 of The Reaper's Bride

Urging me to sit, she tells me. Mostly, she sat waiting in locked rooms like this one, but Silvio questioned her harshly over her part in Sofia’s disappearance in front of Don Vicini and his men. “Only the words were harsh, Caterina. They did not torture me. They didn’t touch me at all. He wouldn’t allow it.”

“Who? Alessio?”

“No, Alessio wasn’t there. I meant Carlo wouldn’t allow it, not even his father, the Don, could check his rage when Uncle Silvio suggested it." That surprises me. I figured Carlo’s rage would be directed at Frankie once he learned of her involvement. Her next words surprise me even more. “Perhaps it would’ve been better if he had allowed the torture.”

“You can’t mean that.”

“I might. Carlo says he was promised a bride by the Vegas Trio when peace was made two years ago. He says he expects them to uphold their promise or the peace will be at an end. He says if Sofia does not return before the week is finished… he’s going to marry me instead.”

***

Hours later, we’ve talked ourselves hoarse, and I’m curled up beside her to sleep. She’s like a sister to me, and I can’t leave her when she’s so distressed. Everyone was furious when they learned her brother was still alive and that she plotted Sofia’s escape with him. Heads will roll for that hit not only being botched but lied about, I’m sure. And, we’re still not sure what punishment Frankie might ultimately face assuming she doesn’t marry Carlo. She’s worried over Rocco’s behavior. I see now why she’s glad to have Armando posted outside the door.

My initial shock over what Carlo had demanded wore off as I’d tried to offer her some comfort.“Even with all the craziness that day, I noticed he couldn’t keep his eyes off you during your audition. Perhaps, in time, he might develop feelings for you and...”

She’d shook her head.“Oh Cat, you’re an even bigger romantic than Sofia. Carlo’s a player who likes bedding any woman who catches his eye. Do you even know all the men from New York my father helped the FBI put in prison when he turned rat? Think of it, New York’s future Don marrying me? I can’t imagine what he’s thinking, but I’m certain nothing good will come of it.”

I want to believe she’s wrong but what do I know? She’s right. I am a romantic fool. I thought Alessio might fall in love with me after all.

“A woman answered his phone the morning after I left,” I whisper in the darkness, glad Frankie won’t see my tears at least.

“I don’t believe it.”

“You think I hallucinated a woman answering his phone?”

“No, I just don’t believe he cheated on you.”

“We are both plagued with optimism on the other’s behalf, I suppose.”

She grasps my hand in the dark, squeezing it. “Wait until he returns and ask him. Force him to look you in the eye and answer. He left New York that morning you’re talking about. You know that, right?”

“No one has told me anything.”

“I overheard Armando on the phone with him yesterday. Alessio was in Zurich.”

“Zurich? Why would Sofia go there?”

“Europe must be safer for her than here. It wasn't part of my brother’s escape plans, but she's not with Ronan.”

“Do you think the Trio will catch your brother to ask him about it?”

“I hope not. I have a feeling locating Sofia will be the last of Ronan’s worries if they do.” I squeeze her hand back in sympathy. “What I do know is that your husband is hunting for his sister. I doubt he’s been focused on breaking your heart with some random woman in the interim. If my cousin is that stupid though, I'll kick his ass for you.”

I grin at her fierce loyalty before sobering again. “It’s not like it would be hard for him to…” I can’t even say it; the thought makes me so sick.

“Uncle Silvio told him not to come home until he finds her, but Alessio told Armando last night that, come hell or high water, he would be coming home to his wife before the week is over. That doesn’t sound like a man who’s put you far from his mind or his heart to me.”

I want to curse that little spark of hope Frankie’s words ignite in my soul. I should hate him. But, I can’t. The small wish that she might be right about my husband burns too brightly to pretend it isn’t there. Now, I only have to wait until he comes home to see what chance we might still have.

33

Alessio

Calabria, Italy

Traveling light with phony passports, switching from railways to rental cars and back, even a wig to hide her blonde hair, I confess I’m impressed by Sofia’s dedication to her role as the runaway bride.

And I’m impressed by the level of strategy and planning involved by whoever it is that is helping her. If Caterina ever tried to run from me, I wouldn’t want this person on her side. The mere notion makes my chest tighten with anger and panic.