Double fuck.

How could I possibly argue my way out of my first assignment as capo? I couldn’t. It was my responsibility to do my job, no matter how unrealistic it might seem. I would have to do my best to protect her from a distance because the chances were slim to none that she was going to welcome me back into her life.

“Carlotta and I will do our part to help bring you back into the picture, and we’ll leave the rest up to you. When you’re not actively working on this assignment in the coming weeks, Gabe will help get you up to speed on handling the books in his territory. Hopefully, with your background at the fights, you’ll have a good understanding already.”

“Absolutely,” I assured him. At least the books were one thing I was confident I could handle. “I’ve worked with Gabe on his records a number of times, so it shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Excellent. I’m proud of you, son. I know this may all seem like a lot to take in at once, but I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t think you could do it. You’ve impressed everyone in the organization over the past years with your dedication and loyalty. Keep it up, and I see great things in your future.” He smiled at me warmly, and I forced a grin in response.

“Thank you, Mr. Genovese. I promise, I won’t let you down.” I stood and reached for his hand, giving it a firm shake.

“I have a few things to take care of. Are you good to let yourself out?” If I didn’t know better, I’d have said he had a mischievous gleam in his eye.

“Of course. You have a good evening.” I tipped my head and made for the hallway, glancing left with the intention of turning right toward the front door. But at the sight of light coming from the end of the hall, my feet betrayed me. Rerouting my intended destination, I stepped farther down the hall toward the soft glow. I had no idea what the hell I was doing. It was like my brain had shut down and instinct had taken over. Inside the home where she grew up, I could feel Sofia’s presence everywhere.

I wasn’t ready to leave.

The happiest moments of my life had been spent with her, and a part of me yearned to relive them. To have that piece of my life back.

She had just graduated, and I’d been stunned when I received an invitation to her party. Now that I’d been given my assignment, it made a hell of a lot more sense. Enzo said she would be staying with them. Had she already moved back home? The light shined from the doorway of her old studio. I couldn’t resist the temptation to close the short distance and peek inside the room.

What they say is true—curiosity killed the cat.

Taking those last steps was a monumental mistake, and I knew it the moment I laid eyes on her golden hair piled on her head in a messy bun. I could remember the silky texture of her hair as my fingers threaded through her long waves. I knew the soft warmth of her skin against my lips as if it had only been hours since our last kiss. I could even recall the strange tightness that spread through my chest every time she gazed up at me with an adoring smile on her face.