Page 59 of Billionaire’s Heartbreak

“No. It wasn’t exactly a skill I was encouraged to develop growing up.”

She shook her head as Dave worked the knot loose. “Maybe learn how to untie yourself if you ever get kidnapped again.”

“I had Dave.”

She gave me a look. “Right. Of course you did.”

Dave finally loosened the rope, and June pulled her hands free, rubbing her wrists.

Then, without warning, she turned toward Mario. “Which hand?”

Mario blinked. “What?”

“Which hand did you touch me with?” His expression changed immediately.

“Boss,” he said, looking at me. “I’m scared.”

I almost smiled. “He didn’t touch you with his hands.”

June looked at me. “You’re sure?”

“Yes.” I paused. “If he had, I would personally chop his hand off for you.”

“Fuck me.” Mario shifted uncomfortably.

“He’s here to help?” June asked.

“Yes. I think he can help us gain control of Dannie’s triad,” I explained.

June studied Mario for a moment. “There’s a vibe about him. He’s not like your usual bodyguards.”

“I hope that’s a compliment.” I chuckled, throwing a glance at Mario.

He smiled.

“Where is he?” he asked, the amusement disappearing from his face.

“He’s not here,” June answered.

His expression tightened. “So the rumours about him dying are true?”

“He’s not dying,” June said immediately, her voice firm enough to make Mario look at her.

He paused. “But people have been talking about it for a while.”

He took another drink of his beer.

“For how long?” I asked.

“At least a year.”

June went still. “A year?”

Mario nodded.

“That’s not good.” She looked at me. “If people have been hearing this for that long…”

“They’ve been preparing for it,” I finished.