Page 2 of Avenging Azalea

“Disappointed?”

“Hardly. They are waiting for you inside.”

That got my attention. “Who is they? This seems highly unusual for a pickup.”

Ricky shrugged, holding the door open to let me and my men through.

“I do what I’m told. The rest is above my pay grade. But you get everyone, so feel special. Cesare, Antonio, and Romeo. Saul is even here.”

The unknown guard walked ahead of us, and I watched him carefully for any sign that this was a trap. All my senses were alert as we moved through the industrial building with only a few dull bulbs lighting the way. When my father collected money, he was greeted with a fancy meal and entertainment.

We stopped in front of a set of double doors, and the guard looked back.

“You’ll have to leave your guns here.”

I smirked and signaled for my guards to turn around. They pulled their guns and took up position behind me as I walked away.

“Where are you going,” Ricky called after me.

“Tell Cesare that we keep our weapons, or he can transfer the money.”

“Fuck…hang on.” He disappeared inside the door, and I heard the low, hushed tone of people talking before Ricky reappeared. “Keep your weapons.”

Bella and Daisy sensed my unease and closed rank, pressing against my legs. I tapped my fingers on my thigh, trying to decide if this was a good idea. The girls weren’t growling yet, but I felt the tension running through their large bodies as easily as if it were my own. Ricky pulled his gun, and that was all it took. Their gums pulled up over their dangerous canines.

“Easy, I’m handing over my piece to show you there is no threat.”

Nodding, I gave the girls the signal to stand down as he held the handle out to me.

“Alright, let’s go.” If it was my day to die…it was my day to die.

Ricky and the guard opened both doors, allowing the girls to stay beside me. My eyebrows shot up when I looked around. The Mancini men sat around a fancy green velvet poker table like they were at a high-stakes game. Cigar smoke rose in the air as Romeo tossed chips into the center.

“I call,” he said as I stepped closer.

Looking around the large open space, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out why they hadn’t just invited me to one of their casinos instead.

The hand continued, and Cesare groaned and swore as he tossed his cards down. Romeo swiped all the chips as he smirked.

“Welcome, Titus. This is a mildly welcome surprise,” Cesare said. His chair scraped along the concrete as he stood.

“Likewise,”

We shook hands, and then he pointed to the game.

“Are you interested in playing a few hands?”

I smiled. “Hoping to win back what you owe my father?”

“The thought crossed my mind.” He smirked and pointed to the two unfamiliar men. “That’s Saul and Antonio.” I knew both men by reputation only and gave a passive nod. “Stunning dogs. Do you mind if I pet them?

“I wouldn’t if you like your hand,” I said, and Cesare stepped back.

Pointing around us, I had to ask. “Why have you chosen this…rather out-of-the-way location?”

“Well…I don’t exactly have your payment,” Cesare said. I narrowed my eyes as he turned and walked away.

“What does that mean? Why did you make me drive out here and go through the theatrics?”