Page 62 of Unruly

“Did he consider his goddaughter at all when he took and married a woman from an unstable, rival family that is known for starting street wars over the slightest thing? Did he? Tell me, Cross.”

Calisto gazed between his son, and daughter-in-law. “It’s definitely not a good situation.”

“Understatement,” Catherine barked.

“Babe—”

His wife brushed his hand off her arm, and stood from her seat. She left the office without a look back, and only a wave over her shoulder.

Cross couldn’t blame her.

“She’ll calm down eventually,” Calisto said. “It’s definitely harder on women like Catherine, I think.”

“What?”

“She’s a part of the business in a way. She’s not like your mother, Cross. A woman who turns her cheek, and minds her own business. Catherine is quite aware of the details and issues that can arise from situations like this. Emma is far more likely to bury her head in the sand until the danger passes.”

“Catherine, not so much,” Cross murmured.

“Exactly. Does Wolf know?”

At the mention of Zeke’s father, Calisto’s best friend, Cross shook his head.

“Why not?” Calisto demanded.

“I only learned yesterday, and met the woman last night. I wanted to discuss things with you, or at least, get your opinion. I told Zeke to hold back on bringing it to anyone else’s attention until I have finished working my own issues out.”

“Mmm.” Calisto leaned forward, and rested his elbows to the desk before clasping his hands together. “I get it. The more people know, the faster word will travel.”

“I need time,” Cross agreed, “especially to figure out a way to keep the both of them safe.”

“Because you intend to do that. Protect Zeke and … the girl.”

Cross cocked a brow. “Of course I do. He’s my best friend, Papa. He’s always had my back, hasn’t he?”

Calisto smiled slightly. “I know, but no one would blame you if you chose a different option, Cross. Considering the circumstances, and the safety of your own family.”

“I will figure it out.”

Somehow.

“Just remember, Cross, that when you choose to protect one man in la famiglia because of something like this, you also have to protect the rest in a roundabout way. That’s what a good boss does.”

“He takes care of his men.”

“Yes, especially if you want them to take care of you.”

“John, you’re a bit early,” Catherine said to her oldest cousin as she managed a wiggling Cece on her lap. She waved at the seat opposite to her desk, and smiled. A brave face for this meeting was needed, after all. “Please, have a seat.”

“Traffic wasn’t too bad,” her cousin replied, “and I think I will stand for now.”

Catherine gave him a look. “My house, my rules. Sit, John.”

Johnathan sat down. “How’s my Donati principessa?”

Cece beamed. “Hi, Uncle John.”

Technically, the two were cousins, but Cece referred to all the men close to her mother and father as her uncles. Mostly at her parents’ prompting.