Prologue
Tommy
Two years prior
Mina's knee connects to my groin, and my eyes water. She's distraught and struggling to exist around us. I get it, but fuck me! I'm grappling to catch my breath, with my testicles now sitting in my throat. Sal and Mark grin before taking precautions and attempting to pull her out of harm's way. Even in my weakened and delirious state, I feel I deserved it. I hate that we caused all her anguish. Throwing my head back, I remain on my knees but swallow my balls back down, forcing them to return to my sack.
Gaining focus, my eyes travel around. How the fuck did she manage to get her lip busted? Things escalate quickly, and the words she's throwing at everyone are laced with hatred. Lia and Petro are at the receiving end. Turning to Raffaele, she dismisses him as if he's trash. I glance at my brother; I'm not sure how to feel. He should be on his knees, nursing his dick. I'm pissed that I'm on the ground, and he's standing straight. On the other hand, I’ve seen the battle he’s faced this past year and a half. Nothing less than a madman, desperate to bring Mina home.
Along with the rest of the boys, we were forced to break off their relationship. Saying no to Raffaele isn't an option. I don’t often excuse my brother’s behavior as he provides no such courtesy in return. However, the situation called for drastic measures, and Raffaele was beyond fiendish. It had been weeks before we had seen or spoken with him.
Surprised doesn't begin to explain my reaction when Raffaele fell to his knees for a woman. I believed him to be an idiot. My initial thoughts of Mina were that she was hot but not worth the trouble. She grew on me over time, and since my brother crossed those lines and claimed her, she became family, and there was no return.
Raffaele meets my eyes. He’s furious. Seeing Mina driving off with another man was never part of the plan. She wasn't meant to be parted from him this long. "Follow her," my brother demands.
I refrain from cursing. I would like to see him stand to his feet after a knee to the groin. "Bring the fucking car around," I order Alex and force myself up.
"She got you good," Sal remarks.
My eyes narrow; I ignore the comment and adjust myself, ensuring everything is still in place. Opening the door to the SUV, I slide into the passenger seat. Leon jumps in the back while Mark and Sal follow separately. "Who do you think the guy is?" Leon questions.
"How the fuck am I supposed to know?" Agitation rings in my voice.
"Raffaele is going to bury him," Alex grins.
Pulling out my gun, I run my fingers over the engravings. I'm in love with my toy, "Raf..." I pause, scoffing, "He's more vulnerable than he makes himself out to be." Turning my head, I glance between the boys, "A woman plays him to her will." I say that, keeping my indifferent persona valid.
"She, not just any woman, Tommy," Leon states. It's no secret that each of the Capos has grown to respect her and prefer Raffaele's mood when she's around. He's a cunt to deal with at times.
I nod, concurring, "Granted, she's fierce and probably one of very few that fits into our lifestyle, but making her family was still a mistake. She was always going to become a target." Glancing ahead, I focus on the Mustang as it slowly pulls into the driveway of Mina's old place. "I could easily just shoot him now! He has no idea how close to death he is!" My finger hovers over the trigger, as I have my target in scope.
"Put it away, Tommy. We don't need to strain the relationship with Mina further." Leon is quick to respond. He's right! She already hates us, and gaining back her trust will be challenging. I smile at the thoughts of the great Raffaele Dante Morelli groveling. He has met his match, and that's satisfying.
Letting out a breath, I clip the safety on. Annoyed, I throw my head back against the rest. I should be drinking, mingling, and finding company for tonight. Instead, I'm here, right in the middle of my brother's love life, with a bruised groin and ego. If it were any other woman, this would not be happening! "Raffaele is lucky I care for Mina like a sister otherwise..."
"Otherwise, what? You would tell your brother to fuck off?" Leon interjects, laughing.
"Shut the fuck up!" I rub my eyes frustratedly.
"She's been through enough, Tommy. Lost a kid and feels abandoned by everyone she loves." Leon's tone saddens. The feeling of abandonment taunts him constantly.
I snap my eyes open at the sound of an engine. "Let's go!" I demand.
Alex waits a minute before roaring the engine to life and following the Mustang. Yawing, I check my phone when a message vibrates. King Dick, AKA Big Bro, “Update!” he demands.
I respond quickly to get him off my back, “Following them as we speak.”
Scrolling through the emoji keyboard, I’m left disappointed, "There's every possible emoji, but one that salutes," I mumble.
"Do you want to piss off your brother, Tommy?" Leon hikes brow. He's keen to avoid one fuming, Raffaele.
"I'm his brother. What's the worst he'll do?"
"Shoot you!" Alex rebukes.
Ignoring my vibrating phone, I slide it into my pocket and focus as they enter a gym. "Text Raf. Update him before he has an episode." Sighing, Leon sends a quick message, updating my brother. Opening the door, I step out as Mark and Sal approach. "What do you boys make of this?" I question my cousins. Our eyes remain glued to Mina as she begins throwing brutal punches.
"She has anger issues!" Mark states, apathetic.
Monition the boys to the side, and we stay out of sight, avoiding a confrontation with Stefano. It's Mina, I want to have words with and preferably alone. With my eyes fixed on Mina, my mind travels back to the morning at the Malibu house. I've never cared for women other than those who share blood, but I didn't remain unaffected. For the first time, my stoic persona haunted me. Undoubtedly, that woman loved my brother, and we tore shreds off her without explaining. Petro was distraught, and when she fainted, memories of the day Alonzo captured her flooded my mind. She had suffered immensely, and we tormented her further. For the first time, I felt remorseful and shattered for the woman who would unquestionably become my sister-in-law one day.
Studying her movements, he's quick and puts force behind her hits. This guy struggles to block them without hurting her. Finally, he manages to calm her down, and defeatedly, Mina slumps down beside him. Her breathing is erratic, and the boys around hike a brow.
"Looks like she kept up with training!" Sal is impressed.
"She's just as bad as Raf," Alex reminds us of her vicious side.
Nodding, I continue to watch the pair. She saddens but then laughs, and I'm curious about the conversation. Suddenly, her eyes narrow as she notices the Morelli-marked car. Nervously, she stands, mumbling something before heading out the door. Smart girl!
"That's our queue, boys. Let’s attempt to get my brother some answers." I grin. Asimina will not make this easy; that's certain!
Turning the corner, she comes face to face with us. Sucking in a breath, she immediately demands answers, "Why are you following me?" Although furious, her voice trembles with pain in our presence.
"Just wanted to make sure you're safe. It was an eventful night," Sal answers.
"We do care and worry about you, Mina." I'm truthful as I speak, hoping it will bring her rage down. Wishful thinking!
Snorting with laughter, she pulls her lips pull in a tight line and responds harshly, "I don't want or need your worry. The experience proved to be toxic for me. So, get lost."
Attempting to push past the boys, Mark steps in front, occluding her path. Sealing her eyes shut, she tries to control her raging breaths. "Listen, my cousin made a tough call to let you go. The man chased you to Mexico. It shattered him just as much as it did you. Whether you believe it or not, it's the truth." Mark attempts to give her insight without providing details.
She remains guarded. "I want nothing to do with any of you." With hatred laced in her voice, she demands, "Leave!"
"Who's the guy, Mina? What is he to you?" I ignore her statements and begin to question.
Sighing, she's both defeated and furious. "He's a friend, that's it. Now fuck off!" She provides an answer in hopes of being left alone.
"If he turns out to be anything more, Raffaele will kill him." Leon leans lower, smiling.
Taking Leon by surprise, she fists his T-shirt. Mina's anger surges, and she brings the muzzle of her gun to his chin, violently erupting. "Any of you come for him, and you will die. Tell your boss I will slice through him if any attempts are made." Losing her hold, she tucks the gun into her pants and rushes off before we make any attempts to stop her.
"Well..." Sal rubs his chin. "I think she's telling the truth,” He remarks.
"Probably." I respond, impelling myself off the wall, "It’s good enough. Let's get back to Antonio's wedding."
* * * * *
Arriving back at the reception, I snort, watching my uncle twirl his wife around as they take to the dance floor. I witnessed another man fall victim to battering eyes. Why be with one woman? When you can have many! Rubbing my temple, I can't help but think he's another fool. At least my uncle has secured his woman and isn't on the chase, unlike my brother. Nevertheless, Antonio's problems will not end just because he was smart enough to put a ring on it! I'm confident his biggest problems will only now begin.
My thoughts are interrupted as my father clasps my shoulder, "How is Asimina?" He questions genuinely concerned. His gaze remains on his brother-in-law.
Glancing around the dim lights makes it hard to see. Clearing my throat, I respond, "She almost beat up the guy escorting her tonight and held a gun to Leon's chin. I would say she's furious!" sweeping my eyes, I focus on my father. He pinches the bridge of his nose, nodding in understanding. "Where's Raffaele?" I question. I'm keen to avoid him. No one can fault Mina for how she reacted, but it placed us all at the receiving end of Raffaele's wrath. We still haven't found Agosti's son, and if Raffaele claims Mina now, it will defeat the purpose he left in the first place. Will he, or more like, can he stay away?
"Business with our Cuban partner. I will fill in Raffaele. What's Asimina's status?"
"According to her, a friendship. Her body language confirms it." I'm brief but give him enough to relay and settle the devil he raised.
"I'll find your brother. Go and celebrate Antonio's wedding," Luciano orders. He has immense respect for his brother-in-law, and since we were kids, he has instilled in us that events like this take priority. Family takes precedence; in normal cases, he would have been against me leaving the venue. However, my parents consider Mina's family even if she doesn't know it.
"Are Antonio and Nat aware of the events that took place?" I hike a brow, waiting for a response. Given the bride and groom's current smiles, my guess would be no, but our family is also known to put on a show and do it well.
"No, and it's not to be mentioned tonight. Natasha is struggling as it is."
Nodding, I grip my father's shoulder and excuse myself. I leave it to Luciano to deal with Raffaele and decide I prefer to have a drink, celebrating my uncle's downfall. Women either coarse rope around their necks or sharp nails in their balls. I'll pass on both! I’m keen to feel the burn of liquor as I tap on the bar the employee approaches. Before I can order, a woman to my left demands, "Espresso martini, thanks."
The bartender, surprised, glances at me. I nod and order my drink with hers before turning my attention to the woman. Her mischievous brown eyes meet mine, and she quickly realizes her mistake. "Sorry, did I jump ahead for you?"
"It would seem so!" My eyes travel, taking her in. She's stunning! She’s wearing a long, satin, royal blue dress that falls seamlessly over her curves. Her long brown hair holds an elegant wave; her makeup is simple yet refined, and her perfume draws me in. Baccarat Rouge! She has exquisite taste.
"Well, I'm sorry, but you know how it goes, ladies first." Her smart mouth wavers my thoughts. I like a woman with personality. However, she has no idea who it's talking to.
"Ladies first, huh?" Lazily, I grin and focus on her features. I open my mouth to throw a witty remark but halt as Laz approaches.
"Getting yourself in trouble, Katerina?" he glances between us. She's his baby sister. Interesting! Lucky for her, she looks nothing like her brothers.
"Not at all," she says, tucking her hair behind her ear. Where is Mina? I was hoping to catch up with her."
"She's headed home." Blowing out a breath, Laz rubs the back of his neck. He's keen to avoid relaying details. I don't blame him. The night has been fucked up, to say the least. "Listen, Nick's had a bit to drink. I need to get him home." He advises.
Lifting her hand, she halts her brother, once again responding with a delightful attitude, "So go! I drove here, and this will be my first drink."
"Are you sure?" Studying his sister, he orders, "Call me if you need a lift. Don’t drive!" The last thing Laz needs tonight is to worry about his sister.
"Fine! You better take the Caveman home; he's stumbling all over the place." She glances over Laz's shoulder.
"Fuck me!" Laz pivots around, glaring at Nick. Shaking his head, he turns back to us and gives a quick introduction, "Kat, this is Tommy. Tommy, this is my baby sister, Katerina." Leaning closer, he requests, "If she has more than one drink, make sure she doesn't drive, please."
I don't miss the way Katerina rolls her eyes. Grinning at the siblings, I hand her the espresso martini and respond, "Since you said please, I will make sure she doesn't get behind the wheel. You have my word."
"Where the fuck is that cunt?" Nick bellows as he falls onto Laz in his drunken state. “I’m going to kill the prick.”
"Who?" Katerina questions quizzically. Her eyes dart between her brothers.
"No one!" Laz quickly responds. Grabbing hold of Nick, he leads him out, "Behave yourself, Katerina!" he yells over his shoulder.
Dumbstruck, she veers her eyes to me and, as suspected, questions, "What's going on?"
Smirking, I glance at the girl. How predictable! Sculling my drink, I wink as I state, "If your brothers wanted you to know, they would've told you!" Lowering her eyes, she smiles and sculls her drink. Turning to the bartender, she orders another. "What happened to? I will only have one?" I study the vixen. She enjoys being in trouble.
"I tell my brothers what they want to hear, and since you gave your word, I guess you're stuck babysitting!" Picking up her drink, she thanks the bartender and sips slowly. "I guess we can sit here in silence, or you can tell me what that was about.”
Bursting into laughter, I shake my head. She's entertaining and probably the only fun I will have tonight. I take in a short breath as I notice Raffaele entering. I have two options: deal with my brother or continue babysitting her as Katerina has worded this interaction. It's not difficult to decide. "I'll tell you what, let's head out. I'll ensure your glass is full, and above all, I will keep my word to your brother. You can entertain me."
"Entertain you?" she screeches. Straightening her shoulders, she's on guard. Placing a hand on her hips, she scrunches her nose and waits for a response. I think she's offended!
"Yeah, are you skillful enough to get me to betray your brothers' trust?" I continue to toy with her.
Her features relax, and she playfully takes the bait: "Alright, challenge accepted! Lead the way, Tommy!"
Katerina
I wake up to a man groaning next to me. Opening one eye, I take in my surroundings as images of last night come back. Sighing, I squeeze my eyes shut again. God, I slept with him! Since ending the relationship with Sam, I have been eager to experience a different type of man. I didn't realize how much I yearned for it until I woke up this morning next to a man who calls himself the Gun.
“Jesus,” I mumble with a soft breath. Coming to my senses, I decide it was time to leave. Making a poor attempt to slide out of bed, I miserably fail to execute a quick and undetected getaway. "Nice ass!" His voice is husky and luring.
Closing my eyes and filling my lungs with air, I mumble, "Thanks," Picking up my dress off the floor, I slowly turn around, concealing myself. Tommy’s features sharpen, his eyes narrowing, and an unimpressed breath escapes his lips. Reaching over, he rips my dress out of my hold. I’m fully exposed, my cheeks redden, and maintaining a straight face is proving to be difficult. A crooked smile hugs his lips as he places a hand behind his head and sweeps his eyes over my naked body.
Sucking in a breath, I gain some composure. However, no amount of confidence makes a difference under his burning glare. Licking his lips, he oozes desire and does not attempt to hide his hunger. Suddenly, the urge to climb on top of him is weakening my knees. I fight back my appetite and decide to play his game.
Clearing my throat, I act indifferent, “I was hoping to be gone before you woke up...” I pause, running my fingers through my hair, allowing my breast to jiggle slightly, “But since you’re awake, do you mind if I use your shower?”
Tommy’s silence is nerve-racking, and my cheeks start to flare. Throwing the sheets off, he climbs out of bed. I refrain from widening my eyes and sulking my jaw. He’s on full display; I audibly swallow as I take in his athletic body. He’s just the right amount of lean with muscle definition. “You were going to leave without saying goodbye?” his voice fails to waver my thoughts. Biting my bottom lip, I feel a shiver rush through me, and desire builds. Dear Lord, he’s well equipped. It explains the sweet pain I’m feeling this morning. Meeting his eyes, I try to pull myself together as he glares back.
My lack of response has Tommy turning on his feet and heading for the bathroom, leaving me standing here hot, bothered, and my heart thundering. It’s something I never felt with Sam.
Listening to the water run, I release my breath. The heat between my legs is increasing rapidly. Contemplating, I decide to leave Tommy a parting gift. Tossing my hair back, I make my way into the bathroom, trying to uphold my confident persona. I can’t help but salivate as the water trickles down his toned body, his biceps bulge as he runs his hands through his hair.
Taking light steps, I slide into the shower and continue to be bold. He seems to enjoy it. Licking my lips, I press my breast onto his back and dig my nails into his chest. He lets out a deep, vibrating groan as he throws his head back.
Tracing my lips on his back, I’m lost in the moment, and I don’t predict his next move. Seizing my hand, with one quick motion, he spins us around, and suddenly the table turns. I’m at his mercy. Standing behind me, he forces me against the tiles. Running his hand between my legs, he skillfully teases me as his erection presses against me. “Katerina,” he hums into my ear. The heat between us makes it impossible to speak; I’m left moaning instead.
“Sexy!” he continues to weaken me.
His gliding fingers play me as if I were a musical instrument, forcing me to seal my eyes and lose myself as excitement builds to an uncontrollable level. He strings my name once more.
I hum in response.
“Spread your legs!” his voice lures me to compliance. Teasingly, he presses himself against me, “Baby,” he’s so seductive.
Positioning, he enters me. I forget to breathe. One hand on my throat, the other slides down the front of my body. Every thrust has me on my tippy toes. “Tight,” his voice now low, yet his breathing is rapid. I’m not tight. He’s well-equipped.
Going slow, he’s savoring every moment. I’m simply at his mercy and begging, “Tommy,” swallowing, “please…” The hot water our rapid breathing, has the air thinning. Increasing his movement, my body trembles, and I shiver at his touch. Right now, he’s entirely in control of me; he owns me. “Soak me,” is the last short breath whisper into my ear. With one last thrust, we both come undone.
I’m stuck against the tiles and struggling to breathe. I try to keep my legs from buckling. Abruptly, he spins me around—my mind races. I allowed him to own and dominate me during sex, but that’s where it ends. Leaning in, he attempts to kiss me. Quickly placing a finger on his lips, I halt his movements.
Those hazel eyes flicker over my features, studying me. He seems confused. Dislodging the clog in my throat, I break his thoughts. “I loved the parting gift!” I nudge him back and step under the water, rinsing off traces from the Gun.
Smiling, he doesn’t seem bothered by my abrupt ending to our session. Stepping out of the shower, I wrap a towel around my body and peek behind me at Tommy. “My first impressions of a person are never wrong,” he halts, waiting for me to meet his eyes. “I didn’t pick you for the fuck and run type!” He grins at my flustered state.
Drying myself, I toss the towel to the side and slide back into my dress. I don’t know this man; therefore, I’m unwilling to let him into my past. “I’m not! Let’s just say I needed to explore myself, and your assistance was required.” Cringing at the idea of wearing heels, I opt to remain barefoot and pick them up along with my bag. “It was interesting,” I smile.
“I won’t lie...” Taking steps forward, he tucks my hair behind my ear and runs his thumb over my lips seductively, “I was worried I wouldn’t be able to get rid of you, but you surprised me!” Taking a step backward, placing space between us, I match his intense glare. “It was a pleasure, Ms. Katerina Alexiou. I will see you soon,” he teases.
Pivoting around, I head for the door and mumble, knowing he can’t hear me, “No, you won’t!”
