The implication of wrongdoing was clear in Enzo’s words, and I felt a compelling urge to defend myself. “I did what I had to do to protect her, sir. I wasn’t exactly given a choice when I entered this life. Once it was done, I decided not to drag her with me. I did what I believed was best for her.” I was relieved to speak up for myself. I just hoped I wasn’t opening a door that would get me in trouble.

Enzo steepled his hands, resting the tips of his index fingers against his lips. “You were one of Sal’s recruits, if I recall correctly. Am I to understand you didn’t want to become a part of this outfit?” His features were totally impassive, giving me zero clue if I was being asked a simple question or providing evidence at my own trial.

“Sal wanted me on board, so he used what leverage he had to coerce me into working for him—to demand my allegiance and become a made man.”

“I’ll admit I was surprised when I found out you had joined the family. When you were young, and Sofia took such a strong liking to you, I spoke with your father about ensuring you weren’t allowed to know about our activities. I didn’t want that information getting back to Sofia. I would have preferred she had friends outside the family just to make life easier, but she was so affected after her brother died, I couldn’t stop her from befriending you. As you two grew up, I wondered how it would all play out. Last I had heard, you didn’t know anything about the family until you were suddenly among our ranks. Then you two broke up, and it was no longer an issue.”

“I didn’t know anything about the family until Sal and my father gave me a crash course. I happened to see you that night outside the warehouse I’d been taken to. I thought maybe you had been a part of recruiting me—that you had ordered my initiation.”

He shook his head, lips pursed. “Unfortunately, no. It was yet another poor decision made by Sal. No one wants a man who doesn’t want to be made, but there’s no going back. I trust that isn’t an issue now?” he asked with a slight lift of his brows.

“That was a lifetime ago. I’ve made my peace with where I am and made the outfit my family.” I infused my gaze with every ounce of confidence and certainty I possessed. I didn’t want to give Enzo the slightest shadow of a doubt as to my loyalties.

After an eternal second, he lowered his hands. “You’ll need to fix this business with Sofia. She’ll be moving out of our house soon, and I want someone guarding her.”

“I’m working on it.” Not for the reasons you think. He wanted me to protect her, and I wanted to get her naked beneath me. The brief kiss we’d shared wouldn’t stop replaying in my head, no matter how messed up the situation had been. I wanted more. A hell of a lot more. If I accomplished my mission, did it matter how I did it?