Chapter 8 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED TO BE BOUGHT
Anthony Caruso arrived at Roman's office the next morning.
He wore a dark suit and an expensive watch.
His smile was calm.
“Roman.”
Roman remained seated.
“Anthony.”
The older man glanced at Gabriel.
“Private conversation?”
“No.”
Anthony's smile faded.
Roman placed copies of the warehouse documents on the desk.
Anthony stared.
Then looked up.
“Where did you get those?”
Roman didn't answer.
Anthony leaned back.
“Old paperwork. Meaningless.”
“Thomas Bennett died after reporting safety violations.”
“A tragic accident.”
Roman looked at him.
“Someone weakened the scaffold.”
Anthony's expression hardened.
“You're making accusations you can't prove.”
Roman nodded.
“That's why the evidence is with investigators.”
Anthony went still.
Then laughed softly.
“You went to the authorities?”
“Yes.”
“Roman, think carefully.”
“I have.”
Anthony leaned forward.
“You're about to destroy a very profitable relationship.”
Roman looked at him.
“Then it was never worth keeping.”
Anthony's eyes narrowed.
“What about Vanessa?”
Roman's expression changed.
“The engagement is over.”
Silence.
Anthony stared.
Then smiled without warmth.
“You're choosing a maid over my daughter?”
Roman shook his head.
“I'm choosing not to marry someone who lies about a woman nearly dying in my home.”
Anthony stood.
“You'll regret this.”
Roman looked at him.
“Perhaps.”
He paused.
“But I won't regret refusing to bury another man's death.”
Anthony left without another word.
Roman sat quietly for several minutes.
Then Gabriel spoke.
“Boss, he's dangerous.”
Roman nodded.
“I know.”
Gabriel hesitated.
“And Adeline?”
Roman looked toward the window.
“Make sure she's protected.”
May you like
Then he added:
“Without making her feel like a prisoner.”
