Chapter 7 - Blood and BrotherhoodThe safehouse was an unassuming brick Victorian nestled in an old-money neighborhood north of Evanston. Inside, however, it looked like a cross between a high-tech war room and a surgical suite.
While a nervous-looking medic re-bandaged Carmela’s side, Mina stood by a marble fireplace, wrapping her hands around a mug of hot tea that had entirely too much whiskey in it.
“You knew,” Mina said, her voice shaking slightly with residual adrenaline. “You knew that container wasn't holding cargo.”
“I suspected,” Carmela corrected, wincing as the medic pulled the medical tape tight. “My husband’s former associates—the faction currently trying to orchestrate a hostile takeover of our logistics network—have been moving people, not goods. Political leverage. Informants. Family members.”
Carmela dismissed the medic with a flick of her wrist and turned her sharp gaze to Mina.
“And my brother?” Mina demanded, her protective instincts flaring up. “You promised hospital security. You promised Toby would be safe.”
“Toby is currently resting in a private VIP suite at Northwestern Memorial Hospital,” Carmela said calmly. “Dr. Vance has been replaced by a specialist who answers directly to my personal physician. Your brother’s medical bills for the next five years are paid in full.”
Mina stopped breathing. “You moved him?”
“For his safety and yours,” Carmela said, standing up with careful dignity. “Because as of twenty minutes ago, the men who chased me into your café know exactly who you are.”
May you like
The front door downstairs rattled violently.
Before anyone could move, the heavy oak parlor door blew inward with a splintering crash.
