Page 81 of War Within
“Sir, the others are here.”
I nodded once. “Thank you, Jackson.” I spun back to Xavier as Jackson disappeared down the hallway.
“Others?” Xavier arched a brow.
“My family was on vacation while I worked a job.”
He raised a finger to his jaw, examining my statement, as he did with anyone he spoke to. Not only was Xavier in the FBI, but he also held ties with the Irish mafia in South Boston, though it was unclear what his position was. All anyone ever knew was he was high ranking. A lot of men in my profession held legal jobs in bureaus to gain intel.
He nodded, chewing the inside of his bottom lip.
“I have to get going but have a safe flight back and we'll be in touch.” I extended my arm.
“Sounds like a plan.” Grabbing my hand, he shook it. “Do you mind if I sneak out this side door behind me?” He tilted his head back toward a set of double doors leading out to a back patio.
“Sure,” I chuckled, “probably better no one sees you.”
I did not want anyone seeing Jane or Carmine in my home. Not yet. I did trust Xavier however with everything being unpredictable right now, I was cautious about people coming and going from my residence until the threat was eliminated.
The moment I locked the side door behind him, I rushed to the foyer. I could not wait to see Jane and my daughter. Valentina ran for me, throwing her arms around my ribcage, embracing me tightly. I wrapped my arms around her, securing her in my arms.
Peering over at Jane, I smiled. She averted her gaze shyly for a moment, glancing at Lily. Carmine folded his arms over his chest.
“Good to see all of you home, safe.”
Valentina pulled away, taking a few small steps back, peering up at me with eyes full of tears. “Dad, what happened?”
“One second.” I sauntered to Jane, draping my arms around her next, placing a peck on her lips before leaning close to her ear. “I want to spend time with you so badly,” I whispered, “but I need to speak with Valentina first.” I took a step back, sliding my palms down her arms.
“Of course.” She nodded, smiling meekly.
“Do you remember where my room is?” I offered a faint smile, remembering the last time she was in it before the gala.
“I think so?” She titled her head.
“Wait there, and I will be upstairs in a little while.” I leaned over, placing a light kiss on her cheek. “After I talk to Valentina, I have to make a few phone calls about something.”
“Okay.” Grasping my hint, she winked before twisting to Lily, hugging her. “I had so much fun considering.”
Lily leaned close to Jane’s ear, murmuring something incoherently. Jane offered a mild grin then made her way up the stairs. I watched her for a moment before turning to Lily.
“Lily, Carmine will show you to a guest room if he remembers where one is.”
Carmine nodded, glancing at her.
“You may stay here tonight.” I ran my fingers through my hair. “We need to talk in the morning.”
Her eyes widened momentarily before she relaxed.
“Carmine.”
“Boss.” He smirked.
“I'll be in touch later tonight. Don’t leave the premises.”
With a nod, he picked up Lily’s bags, leading her upstairs. Valentina’s gaze met mine. She blinked away glistening tears as she followed me through the house to the library. I extended my arm, indicating for her to enter before me. I closed the door gently with a sigh.
“Do you want to sit down?” I rested my hand on her delicate shoulder.
