Chapter 9 - THE MAFIA BOSS WHO COULDN'T PROTECT EVERYONE
Adrian came to see me that evening.
We met in a quiet hospital conference room.
He looked exhausted.
For the first time, I noticed a small cut near his eyebrow.
“What happened?”
“Nothing important.”
I stared.
“That's what patients say right before I discover something important.”
He almost smiled.
Then grew serious.
“Olivia's safe?”
“Yes.”
“Good.”
I folded my arms.
“Adrian, I need the truth.”
He nodded.
“My brother has been working with people who want control of the shipping routes.”
“And the hospital?”
“They've been using legitimate supply contracts to hide unauthorized cargo.”
I stared.
“Why?”
“Because medical deliveries attract less attention than ordinary freight.”
I swallowed.
“What was in the trucks?”
He hesitated.
“I don't know everything.”
“Then find out.”
His expression changed.
“You think I haven't tried?”
I stepped closer.
“People are getting hurt.”
“I know.”
“Olivia was kidnapped.”
“I know.”
“Daniel almost died.”
“I know.”
My voice cracked.
“And I'm standing here wondering whether the next person will be one of my patients.”
Adrian looked at me.
For a long moment, neither of us spoke.
Then he said quietly:
“I built a world where men were afraid to betray me.”
I stared.
“And?”
May you like
He looked toward the window.
“I forgot that fear doesn't create loyalty.”
