Page 40 of Duty

“It’s always for work; don’t worry about it.”

His father cocked a brow, but said nothing.

Dante, on the other hand, frowned. “It’s not like you to ignore my calls.”

“I didn’t ignore it. I didn’t hear it.”

Christ.

He’d only gotten three hours of sleep.

“Just … cut me some slack this morning,” he mumbled, running a hand down his unshaven jaw. “Won’t happen again.”

Dante nodded. “Good—to business, though. I have questions, and you have answers. So, I’m going to need you to give them to me, Andi.”

Andino blinked. “What?”

“John.”

“What about John?”

Because as far as Andino knew, his cousin was doing fine. Keeping his head down after being released from prison like he was told to do, managing his capo duties just fine, and managing his meds and life without trouble.

“There’s no problem with John,” Andino said. “He’s doing fine.”

Dante cleared his throat, and passed Andino’s father a look. “On the surface, it certainly seems so. That’s what everyone keeps telling me, anyway.”

“So, then leave him be.”

“At the moment, I can’t do that.”

Andino groaned, and tipped his head back to stare at the ceiling. “I am too tired for this shit today, okay?”

“I beg your pardon?”

Fuck.

There was that tone.

The one his uncle was known for—it was cold, and harsh, and biting. It promised violence without actually having to threaten at all.

“Andino,” Giovanni warned quietly. “Try again.”

Andino sighed, straightened in the chair, and gave Dante his attention again. “My apologies.”

“Thank you.”

“I just think—”

Dante pointed a finger at Andino, and narrowed his eyes. “I don’t care what you think right now, Andi. I care that you listen, and do what you’re told until you sit your ass down in my seat. And considering your newfound position as the boss who will take over after me, I expect a hell of a lot more out of you, now. You’re a good made man—don’t get fucking lazy with me. Got it?”

Jesus.

“Yeah, I got it. What’s the problem with John?”

“He’s seeing someone. Or he might be. We’re not entirely sure at the moment.”

Oh, that.