15

“You are well aware that it was necessary,” I answered, aware of the concern in his voice. He might not be the warmest man, but he adored his two sons and always had. “I don’t like to lose in business or in pleasure. However, if it will make you feel any better, both my Capos are on their way and Baron is currently standing by my side.”

“That’s not enough,” he barked again. “Do you have any idea what happened? I want to head there myself to hunt the fucker down.”

“Not yet and you need to remain exactly where you are.”

“Do you even have an alibi?” Pops pressed, exhaling in exasperation.

I glanced at Baron, who had no problem sucking down my expensive scotch while listening intently. “Actually, yes, I do. A solid one.”

“Then I suggest you use it so you can get back to business. We have far too much going on. New worlds to conquer, my boy.”

My father often forgot he’d been retired for years, leaving the helm to his firstborn. I couldn’t blame him. He wasn’t the kind of man to enjoy a good game of golf or even poker. He lived and breathed work, which was my mother’s only real complaint.

“Don’t worry, Pops. I’ll be back in no time. Reassure Mother for me.”

“I will try, son, but you know how she is.”

“I know, Pops. I know.” As I ended the call, I heard Baron grumbling. “Do you have something to say to me, Baron?”

“If you have an alibi, then I need to hear what it is so I can call the prosecutor’s bluff before this shit gets out of hand.”

He was right but I wanted to ensure that I could protect her after the announcement was made. “I’m not ready to disclose that just yet and yes, I have my reasons.”

“Don’t be a fool, Joshua. I’ve read up on that prosecutor. She was given the case for a reason. Likely because she never loses. She’s tenacious as fuck and has a reputation of being a venomous snake. You may have finally met your match, but I don’t think you want to spend time in prison this far away from home and from Christopher.”

I took another sip of my drink, anger surfacing, although Baron wasn’t trying to rile me. He knew how I felt. “I assure you it won’t come to that. However, I need to know everything you can learn about Selena Barrios.” I would task my second in command to do the same upon his arrival. Somehow, I knew they’d gather entirely different sets of information.

“Stay away from her.”

“I have no intentions of doing so, Baron.”

“You’re insane but I’ll get you everything I can.” He shook his head, his look incredulous.

“You do that.” I walked toward the window, staring out at the busy street below. And my mouth watered thinking about the next time I’d meet with Selena. “Soon, sweetcherie. Soon.”