Page 92 of Power
“Frederica’s mission was also an ambush,” he said. “He was expecting them.”
“How do you know?” she asked.
“I was watching the live feed with Carrera and Sin.”
Her heart plummeted, her guts twisted. “You saw?”
“I did.”
She shook her head. “I’m not ready to hear about it.”
“Not up for discussion,” he replied. “ALPHA Ops have to stand down. The entire organization is at risk, but no one needs to know you’re a part of the group, especially since you won’t be going there.”
“I was there today.”
“We’ll work at the Black Site or at my home. Both are secure.”
Though elated she’d been brought back into ALPHA, she wasn’t sure how she felt about working with Luciano. As it turned out, Z had been right about him. Hewasup to no good.
“Now I understand why Z had me watching you.”
He smiled. “Not a personal shopper?”
Despite her grief, she couldn’t help but appreciate his handsome face, the way his eyes gleamed with mischief.
He lives for danger.
She gestured to her home. “I have no real fashion sense and I’ve never taken much interest in home furnishings either. I can appreciate beautiful décor or a stunning couture gown, but I don’t seek them out.”
“You could wear a burlap bag and look phenomenal.” After a breath, he said, “Z thought I was still involved in organized crime, specifically counterfeit money.”
She wanted to ask him if he was, but opted not to. At this moment, not knowing seemed like a better way to start their professional relationship.
Less is more.
She extended her hand. “I look forward to partnering with you, Luciano. It’s a relief not to pretend to be in the home furnishings and apparel industries any longer.”
He lifted her hand, pressed her skin to his lips, and kissed it. “We’re gonna have a lot of fun catching The Bomb Maker.” Another sly smile blanketed his handsome face. “When we’re finished with him, he’s going to regret his actions.”
“Which ones? He’s been killing people for years.”
“Every single one of them,” Luciano replied. “And he’ll regret them for all eternity.”
Feeling like she wanted to do something to solidify their newly formed partnership, she slid over the piece of tiramisu. “Let’s share this.”
He forked off a small piece, held it out to her. She opened her mouth and accepted it. Sweetened cream, espresso, and savory chocolate filled her with everything good.
Though her life without Fred would never be the same, staying focused on Luciano helped. His presence soothed her in ways she couldn’t begin to understand.
“In honor of Frederica.” Luciano paused to take a small bite of the decadent dessert. “If you’re having a bad day or if you’re overwhelmed with grief, tell me.”
“Thank you,” she said. “What about you? Will you tell me if you’re having a bad day?”
His gaze hovered on hers for longer than she expected, then he set down the fork and leaned back in the chair. “All my days are the same.”
“Seriously?” She sipped the coffee.
“They’re filled with anger and a need for revenge. My world is dark and ugly.”
