Stolen Dove: Stolen Hearts Series by Blake, Carina (novels in english .txt) 📗

out over a short time while stealing the wife of his brother. Despite having the makings of a great mob boss, he’s not a part of that life. He ended their reign and moved on with his life. His wife is expecting, and his associate has taken the reins to start his own operation.”

I don’t respond because Delia’s back with our drinks. “Would you care for the in-flight meal?”

“Yes, but please give us a couple of hours.” The men ate before they picked me up, so we have plenty of time before the next meal. She nods and leaves us.

“This Johnny fella?” I ask, continuing our conversation.

“Yes. He’s got ties to the Irish in Boston. Santino’s also been working with the Russians.”

“Damn. Are you sure he’s not running something underground? Getting his hands into different pots?”

“Not from what we see. It’s only been a few weeks since Rafael Marchetti has been arrested.”

“Well, then, we’re going to need more information before we contact them. I don’t trust Avanti, but he’s looking for allies so we’ll see what he has to offer. At least there’s a party tonight. Perhaps some of them will be there. If there’s a shake-up they’ll be looking for lifelines and we’ll hear whispers.” I don’t want to deal with these people for anything other than shipping, but I also need to be aware of who my enemies are.

“I have your back either way,” he reminds me.

I raise my glass to him. “I’m grateful to have you at my side.” I toss the bourbon back and then we go back to the plan.

* * *

My men pick up our rental SUV while Fernando and I wait. I refused the offer for their men to meet us because frankly, I don’t trust getting into vehicles with strangers, especially men who operate openly on the other side of the law. We put the address to Avanti’s estate into the navigation system. There’s a decent amount of traffic, but we make good time.

We arrive at the closed gates and are escorted into Avanti’s home before his guests arrive for their party. I freshen up in my guest room while my men do the same in the room next door. I tug on my cuffs as I check over my appearance. Strong and powerful as always, which is exactly what I am despite my current situation. With my plans waylaid, I’m at the mercy of my host. Our meeting was to happen yesterday, but due to the severe weather, my flight had been delayed.

If I had arrived on time, I would have been out of here three hours ago instead of waiting for our meeting, which rankles my nerves. I’m not the type to be waiting for anyone, especially a mediocre criminal. He’s one step above the politicians in this city, but without the clout. I want access to the coastlines without restrictions, and Avanti has the connections I’m interested in.

My mother’s illness made matters worse. I wouldn’t have taken the trip if she had not insisted on it. She might not approve of my life, but she understands it and loves how I’ve taken over my father’s empire while feeding him to the vultures.

Still, my mother deserved more than she had been given and I’ve tried to make up for the past, but some damage can’t be undone. Her father sold her like chattel to my father for rights to his vineyard.

My brother and I were the only children she had before miscarrying three more times. My father had six other children with his mistresses. I hate what he did to her, parading his little leftovers with his mistresses in her face. Most of my half siblings hated him as well because they were the bastard children who were only used to promote his virility. He wanted nothing to do with them, just like he hadn’t with us. Now, I own everything from both sides of the law and will one day have someone to pass it all down to, although that doesn’t look to be happening soon. At least, not soon enough for my mother.

If I ever marry, I’ll never betray my wife. Fuck that noise. The damage had killed my mother’s heart and ruined her happiness. With all my power and money, I can’t get her to take the treatment. She wants to go on her own terms, and I’m not ready for that. Being here and not by her side only brings my pain and rage to the forefront of my mind. I need to get this meeting over with and head back to Spain in the morning.

I send up a silent prayer that she’ll come to her senses and get the treatment she needs before it’s too late. My phone buzzes, and it’s a message from the woman. Stop worrying. I’m well. Do what you have to. Maybe meet a beautiful girl.

I shake my head and whisper, “How does she know?”

As the head of the Serrano family, I have an obligation to the organization to keep the empire running smoothly. I decided to up my own actions to show my strength.

“Your mother?” Fernando says, coming into the room.

“You know it.” I roll my eyes and then go back to adjusting my tie. “Is my pilot ready to go in the morning?” I ask.

“He’s ready as soon as you are. The plane has been refueled and stocked. Ernesto is sleeping with his phone in the hangar as he waits for your call.”

“Good. I don’t want to be here any longer than necessary.” I didn’t get more than a two-minute call from Avanti when I landed. “Avanti makes my stomach turn. He’s weak and troubled. Maybe I should have contacted one of the other families.”

The sound of footsteps stops all conversation, and then there’s a steady knock on the door. Fernando walks over and grabs the handle, opening the door just enough to look out. “Can I help you?” His tone is brisk with the guy.

“Signor