Page 115 of War Within
“FUCK!”
I did not know my way around, but I ran and ran down the paths in the backyard, passing statues and fountains. It was impossible to pay attention to my surroundings in the labyrinth of botanical gardens. Giovanni finally broke me. He genuinely hurt me.
Though I was sure he did not know the man he killed was my father, it did not matter. I was pissed before. Now? I was enraged! He needed to die. His whole family needed to die, including his innocent daughter. Fuck Don Giovanni! He was going to regret ever moving to America.
My fast pace, slowed to a walk. I gasped for air through my tears. As I came to a large trickling fountain, Nick was texting on his phone.
“What do you want?” He put it away, crossing his arms.
“How long have you worked for him, Nicky?”
He lifted a hand to his chin, looking off in the distance before meeting my gaze. “About four years I guess.”
“A rich man like you?” I crossed my arms over my chest. “Why?”
“We had an arrangement.” He shrugged. “And now we're close friends. He's loyal and a great guy.”
I scoffed.
“Did you tell my sister about me being your watch dog?”
I shook my head, sniffling. “I haven't even seen her lately. We had to come to Italy.”
“Well, let's keep this between us until I tell her.”
“She's too focused on Carmine to care anyway.” I rolled my eyes.
“Giovanni should maybe know that I know you.”
“Yeah Giovanni, my bodyguard took my virginity.” I mocked the past.
“We were kids, Jane.” He looked at the trees around us. “A lot changed. I don’t even know you anymore. Something is definitely going on.”
Panting, I tried my best to calm down for Nick’s sake. He was a good guy. At least, I thought he was. He never did anything to hurt me. He and Lily were both like family to me, but I guess I would have to cut Lily soon. Nick knew me so well. He knew I was living a lie, though he could not place his finger on it. None of them could. My tracks had been covered well.
“How the hell did you get mixed up with Giovanni anyway?” He chuckled.
“It's a long story. Ugh! I definitely can't tell you knowing what I do now.”
He pressed his finger to his ear.Yes sir, we’re by the Michelangelo Fountain. “He's coming.” He muttered. “I'll see you guys inside.”
My gazed followed him as he took a few steps in the other direction. He stopped, turning around. “Oh, and Jane?”
“What?” I wiped my tears then crossed my arms.
“I don't know why you're with him, and I don’t know if I even want to know.” He shook his head in disappointment. “Either way, you're in over your head. Don't be stupid.” He shook a finger at me. “You'll end up dead. I've known you forever and he's one of my best friends. Don't make me have to choose my side. You won't like my decision.” He bowed his head, spinning on his heels, marching away.
My mouth fell agape. Nick Alexander had changed. Or, maybe he was always that way and I just did not know it. I sighed.Fuck him too them. Fuck them all!
“Please let me explain.”
“Oh my God!” I twisted around to Giovanni right behind me. Livid, I took five steps backwards, folding my arms defensively.
“Though you may not want to know.” He slid his hands in his pockets.
“Talk!”Because when you're done, I'm going to ruin your life.
“First of all, please know I didn't know he was your father at the time. How could I?” He shrugged. “Your father was having an affair with my former assistant. He got her pregnant and beat her until she lost the baby and her life. I came into work one day and she didn't show. I called her over and over again. I finally went to her home finding her in a pool of blood. He'd dropped his wallet during the altercation they had. I hunted him down and—”
