Owned by the mafia boss

CARMELA

Don’t come back.

I hovered over the send button. Was that line too ominous? I gave my email another read-through.

Dear Mia,This content belongs to Nô/velDra/ma.Org .

This will be my last message. I can’t go into detail. I know that’s vague, but it’s not safe for us to communicate. You’re better off wherever you are than here. Boston’s streets are flooded with violence. It’s only a matter of time before this city implodes. I’m only staying for Mom and Dad’s sakes.

If I’m happy about anything, it’s that you and Alessio escaped. I’m proud of you for making that leap of faith. It can’t have been easy.

Please live life to the fullest.

I wish you, Alessio, and baby Lexy all the health and happiness. I love you.

Don’t tell me where you are.

Don’t come back.

C

She’d hop on the first flight to Boston if I used that. I selected the block of text, hit Delete, and began anew.

Dear Mia,

I’m sorry that Lexy is teething! Hopefully, she grows out of it fast. Poor thing! That video of her tantrum was adorbs. I have so many pics of Lexy on my phone that people ask if she’s my baby.

As much as I adore updates, don’t send any photos. Vinn asks about Alessio whenever he sees me. They’re obsessed with finding you guys, and I know you’re taking precautions, but it’s not worth the risk.

Everybody’s great! Mom and Dad are homebodies. Dad’s into gardening. He’s overzealous with the shears. Our rhododendrons are bare. Drives Mom nuts.

I’m doing well. I don’t live in Boston-proper anymore, but guess what? I’m working full-time at Sanctum as a bartender.

Isn’t that crazy? Michael gave me the job. And you’re right. He is such a sweetheart!