Chapter 8 - THE ENEMY WHO WANTED HER NAME
Vincent's rival was a man named Dominic Falcone.
He controlled several illicit gambling operations and had spent years trying to weaken Vincent's influence.
When Falcone learned Vincent had become attached to a waitress, he saw an opportunity.
Harper was ordinary.
Unprotected.
Easy to frighten.
That was what he believed.
One afternoon, Harper received a package at work.
Inside was a photograph.
Her mother.
Sitting beside the window at St. Catherine's.
On the back, someone had written:
Tell Rossi to surrender the waterfront contract.
Harper's hands went numb.
She called the police.
Then Vincent.
When he arrived, she handed him the photograph.
His face changed.
“Falcone.”
Harper stared.
“You know him?”
“Yes.”
“Then stop him.”
Vincent looked at her.
“I will.”
She shook her head.
“No violence.”
He froze.
“Harper—”
“I mean it.”
Her eyes filled.
“I don't want anyone dying because of me.”
Vincent looked down.
Then nodded.
“Okay.”
She studied him.
“Can you promise that?”
He hesitated.
Then answered honestly.
“I can promise I'll work with the authorities and do everything possible to keep you safe.”
Harper swallowed.
May you like
It wasn't the dramatic promise she expected.
But it was one she could believe.
