Cosa Nostra (Our Thing) (closed for silvertongue217)

[Opensesame54321]

Cosa Nostra (Our Thing) (closed)

Isabella Giagabioni
http://www.addhairstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/141.jpg
October 1974

Isabella knew what she liked. She liked the good life. She liked good food, good wine, beautiful clothes - everything that given Daddy's power could give her.

But then, that was the way that she had been raised. Mother had died when Isabella was 5 and she had pretty much been raised by dear old Daddy. And Daddy was Vincenzo Giagabioni, the head of one of the 5 families of Cosa Nostra (Our Thing), or as sometimes called in the states, the Mob. Isabella was well aware of what Daddy did. After all, it paid for her good life. And she was just fine with it.

To tell the truth, there was probably a lot more that went on that she was not aware of. All she knew was that Daddy could, and would, give her money whenever she asked for it. A simple stroll into his office and a hand out would easily result in Daddy reaching into his pocket for a wad of bills that could choke a horse. The estate they lived on was 40 acres on Cosa Nostra, complete with stables, tennis courts, huge pool, gates and plenty of guards. She even had her own bodyguard, though usually Isabella was able to give him the slip with some effort.

What was very amazing was that overweight, rough, tough, and basically ugly Vincenzo could produce such a beautiful daughter. The willowy beauty had long brown hair, brown eyes, high cheekbones, straight nose and full, sensuous lips.

Despite her beauty, she could pretty much guarantee that despite any man that should be attracted to her, once he discovered just who Daddy was, he would immediately lose interest, usually due to self preservation. Therefore, having reached the ripe age of 19 and no young man in sight, she spent much of her time driving fast in her Porsche or clubbing or riding her favorite stallion, Thunder, or shopping in one of her favorite places on Fifth Avenue, or whatever else struck her fancy.

Right now, she was waiting for Daddy to finish with his meeting before interrupting him for cash. She may be his Princess, but business was business and it took precedence over her whims. She looked up at Benny standing by the door. Benny, his nose somewhat bent, grinned back at her.

"Benny, you know that gun just ruins the silhouette of your suit."

"Yes, Miss Isabella." He was one of the few who could call her by her first name. He had watched her grow up into the lovely young lady.

She looked at her nails. Definitely in need of a manicure. "Any idea how much longer?"

"No, Miss Isabella."

 

[silvertongue217]

MEANWHILE

A man stepped off of the plane moving off of the rickety four seater and back onto solid ground. From the minute he stepped off of the plane he was given a wide berth with most of the flight crew and the tarmac workers shying away from him.

"Even in Costa Nostra" The man said grabbing his duffel bag and shaking his head. Dante Morrow mind flashed back to the reverend who ran the boys orphanage back in New Orleans who one who had infamously told him a truth that to this day he still lived in.

"Black is Black"

Dante could have told them all he was spanish on his mother side but the good reverends words rang in his ear and he knew it wouldnt matter. His father was black and that was all there was to it. Even with his skin being a lighter dark color and his spanish features no one ever seemed to see that. That combined with the fact that he was a large muscular man who quite frankly looked dangerous meant that in their eyes he was some one who was to be given a wide berth.

Dante scowled swinging his duffel bag over his shoulder easily with one hand. He straightened his olive army jacket and moved forward and away from the plane. Not for the first time Dante asked himself why he was here and not trying to make a life for himself back in the states. After the Vietnam war and his part in it the last thing he wanted was to get caught up in another war or fire fight. Even though jobs were hard to find in this day and age for some one like him it didnt mean there weren't any.

So why Costa Nostra

His mother

He was dropped off at the orphanage with only a note stating his name. He was a newborn then and by the grace of god he survived long enough for some one to find him. Witness reports stated later that a spanish woman had dropped him off at the front door before speeding off with a man in a car.

They never came back for him

Normally and in most cases that was the end of the story. Dante saw it with many of his brothers at the boys home. They were all abandoned in some way and no one ever came back for them.

But then Dante received a letter

He was in Vietnam at the time working with a strike force to clear out the jungles. The letter was short and simple and to the point yet what it told him changed his entire world.

Dear Dante

It has come to my intention that you are off fighting the good fight for the U.S.A. Let me be the first to congratulate you on your service and what your doing for your country.

My name is Alfonzo Riveria I am the father of Lauria Riveria....

Your mother

Your mother died this year cancer unfortunately on her death bed she told me about you. I was shocked to have found out and deeply ashamed of what she did to you. She was a troubled woman and the man she was with your father was even more troubled.

But I digress

That is no reason for you to have been treated the way you were treated. I would like to make this right for you. When you get out of the military come to my home in Cosa Nostra I have a lovely villa and business that could use some one with your talents. I can also tell you more about your mother and hopefully let you know about your past.

Love
Grandfather Riveria

In short it was mostly every thing he had ever dreamed about. It sadened him to know his parents were dead but at the same time it made it easier. If they were dead it didnt mean he had to ask them the hard question of why they had given him up. Instead he could learn about them and his family with his grandfather and be comfortable in the knowledge he was as unaware of his wayward grandson as Dante was of his grandfather.

Then the other shoe dropped

He asked around curious if any one knew his grandfather. The information he received back was shocking. It was long suspected but never proven that Alfonzo Riveria was a capo in the mob specifically to Don Vincenzo Giagabioni. It was rumored even that Alfonzo was his right hand man! Some one he trusted to get the job done no matter how illegal it was.

The information rocked Dante to his core.... If it was true that meant the business his grandfather wanted him to join was illegal in nature. He also spoke of his talent which meant that the training he received in the army and in special forces was some thing his grandfather wanted. It was a hard pill to swallow mainly because the reverend at his boy home made sure that they all stayed out of the black gangs that were rampant. It was a point of pride for the boys home that they took a better path. Going down to see his grandfather would put him sqaure on that path.

But it was his only chance to meet his family

In the end he took the offer. Instead of going back home after his tour was done he let his uncle know and received plane tickets the next day. He spent the plane ride feeling more than a little conflicted and even as he walked through the airport a part of him wanted to turn and go back.

"Mr. Riveria?"

Dante almost ignored it at first not used to having Riveria as a last name. However at the last minute awareness washed over him and he turned to the sound of the voice. It was a driver waiting for him even holding a white card with his name on it in black bold letters. The man himself seemed nice enough even insisting on grabbing his bag for him and carrying it to the limo parked outside. The lavish car made him uncomfortable and sure enough when he glanced around he noticed the glares sent his way for having such a nice mode of transportation.

"Do not worry" The driver said who introduced himself as Mr. Clean "They will learn once they find out who you are"

"Right" Dante said uncomfortable about that as well. He ducked into the car as fast as he could sliding in and slamming it behind him.

"So where to?" Dante asked as the limo pulled out and began moving into Cosa Nostra.

"We are going to Mr. Giagabioni estate" Mr. Clean explained adjusting the mirror "Your grandfather would like to properly introduce you to the family"

"I see" Dante said shifting and glancing out the window "And by family he means the mob correct?"

"I believe so" Mr. Clean replied not skipping a beat "However in this town that stands for people thicker than family"

Dante rose an eyebrow but didnt say any thing more. The trip from the airport to the villa was short and before Dante knew it he was pulling into a large mansion that had all the latest amenities. It was designed to be eye catching and opulent showing off the wealth and power this man had.

"Well here we are huh?" Dante murmured running a hand through his short black hair. His green yes slid back to Mr. Clean watching him as the man chuckled.

"It is" Mr. Clean said a valet moved to open the door "Try and look impressed the boss likes that and so does your grandfather"

"Duly noted" Dante said snorting as the valet finally opened the door. Mr. Clean said good bye and Dante moved sliding out of the door and stepping out onto the cobble stoned drive way.

Things moved quickly then. He was taken in fast and told to stand in the entranceway. Two men patted him down for any weapons and after confirm he was clear took his duffel and handed it to a waiting house keeper. Once he was checked out and taken care of he was led into a dining room and told to wait for them to come down.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Isabella had learned when it came to Daddy and the business, it was best to learn patience. She really didn't know what went on behind those closed doors, nor did she really care. As long as the money continued, she was happy.

As she sat waiting for her turn, she could hear quiet voices conversing around the corner. She didn't know who, nor did she really care. She knew that it was more than likely something to do with business. Basically, she was the only 'civilian' living in the house, except for some of the staff.

Finally, the door opened and Benny turned to speak to the man just out of her sight. If it was who it usually was, it was Leo. The two spoke in hushed tones and Benny gave a slight chuckle before turning back to face her. The door closed again as Benny told her, "It will be just a moment, Miss Isabella." A smile graced the lips beneath his crooked nose.

"Thank you, Benny." She sat upright from her slouched, disinterested pose. She knew it was any minute now.

The door opened again and this time as Benny stepped aside, Leo stepped out to greet her. Leo was the opposite of Benny. Where Benny had the look of a prize fighter in a monkey suit, Leo had that smooth, polish oiliness of a well greased machine. His smile always seemed fake to her, and she knew that he was interested in her. She couldn't stand him and the thought of his hands on her made her skin crawl. But he was Daddy's employees so she kept her mouth shut and avoided the man as much as possible.

Leo held his hand out, hoping that she would take it. Isabella had become quite adept at avoiding Leo's touch. This time was no exception. She gracefully glided past him with one hand holding her purse and the other hand flipping her hair back from her face.

Inside seemed to be a great meeting of the minds. Daddy sat behind his desk, with her father's capo, Mr. Alfonzo Riveria, standing at his right hand. Riveria's eyes looked at her, full of secrets. He was always nice, but she, after all these years, was very much aware of the power that the man held. He 'knew where the bodies were buried'.

Also in the room was Paul. Paul and Benny were almost like a pair of bookends, both prize fighter material. They both had the same temperament, and she was comfortable around him.

"My dear, what does my daughter want today? As if I couldn't guess." Vincenzo was sitting there, his suit impeccable, though definitely a large-ish size. Isabella crossed to bend down and kiss him on the cheek.

"Father. Gentlemen. I'm sorry to interrupt you. I just wanted to get some money. After all, your birthday is coming up and I need to get you something."

"All I need is my beautiful daughter." He laughed and the rest of the room laughed with him.

She held out her hand, laughing back as she leaned against his desk, holding out her hand. "Come on, I know what I want to get you."

Vincenzo gave her a grin as he stood up, pulling out a bundle of bills. He peeled off almost half to give to her and she kissed him again on the cheek as her fingers closed around the fat wad of cash.

She stood up and smiled at Daddy. "Thank you Daddy." Looking around the room. "Gentlemen, I wish you a good day."

She left the office, heading for upstairs to change to go shopping. She stopped in the hall, taking a quick count to see just how much he had given her. The door to the dining room was open and Leo was talking to a young man. The man was large, muscular, had the look of a new man for security, maybe. He had dark hair and, as their eyes briefly met, she saw that he had green eyes. Kind eyes. That surprised her and she would have stood rooted to the spot if Leo had not turned around. Immediately the look in her eyes changed to one if disinterest.

Isabella headed upstairs to change into something so she could find Robert, her bodyguard, and head into town.

 

[silvertongue217]

"Who was that?" Dante asked blinking as the beautiful woman disappeared. She left as quickly as she came in leaving behind a faint scent that made his entire body shiver in pleasure. He watched her go unable to stop himself from blinking rapidly as he watched her go.

"Careful" the man said who she had called Leo "thats the bosses daughter"

Understanding dawned on Dante and he cleared his throat turning back to Leo. Before he could say any thing... and possibly save himself he heard the door open upstairs once more.

"My god!"

Dante froze and with some hesitation turned. His grandfather stood at the stop of the staircase beaming down at him as another man that could only be the big boss himself. Dante only had his eyes for his grandfather however. He was a large man like him with surprisingly soft features. His eyes spoke of wisdom but there was a hard edge to them that spoke of the experience he had.

"You look just like your mother!" Alfonzo exclaimed coming down and reaching out to clap Dante's hand "Its uncanny!"

"I will have to take your word for it" Dante said shaking his hand "Its a pleasure to meet you Sir"

"Sir?" Alfonzo said chuckling "Your a polite boy but please! Grandfather!"

"Maybe soon" Dante said smiling softly "I am not against it but... Its going to take some getting used to"

"I understand" Alfonzo said nodding "We have all the time in the world however! Oh Dante my boy allow me to introduce you to my boss Mr. Vincenzo Giagabioni"

"Your grandfather has been talking about this non stop for a week" Vincenzo said shaking hands with Dante "It is a pleasure to finally have you here!"

"The pleasure is all mine sir" Dante said shaking his hand.

"You are a polite boy!" Vincenzo said chuckling "Come on lets go eat your grandfather and I have a job for you"

And with that the trio went into the dining room to eat and talk.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Isabella slipped on a top and jeans. She was sure that her Daddy would frown at her attire, and she knew that the locals would definitely not approve. Which was probably all the more reason to wear it. She was not really crazy about Cosa Nostra, preferring the states. She loved the freedom that she felt there. Here, it was all about tradition, the old ways, yawn!!!! She wanted another trip to America.

Meanwhile, she headed towards the car. She figured that Robert would be waiting for her there, knowing that the car was her means of escape. Sure enough, there he was, leaning against the hood of the car, his arms crossed and his dark sunglasses hiding his ever watching eyes. Just like Benny, she could make out the gun hidden by his jacket.

"Robert, I see you're waiting for me." She smiled at him. The man was like a panther, ready to pounce on any danger. Apparently, Daddy thought that she might need someone able to protect her at a moment's notice.

"Is it something for your Father's birthday, Miss Isabella?"

"You are a mind reader, Robert."

"I've just learn to anticipate, Miss Isabella." He gave a little chuckle as he opened the car door for her. Once she slid in, she quashed the desire to start the car and tear off without him. She had actually done that once. Daddy fairly burst a blood vessel and threatened worse. So she ignored the impulse and waited while he came around to the passenger side to join her.

"What will it be this year?"

"Hell, I don't know. What do you get the man who has everything?"

She took off, speeding at a fair clip. She knew that no one would stop her. They all knew who she was, and they didn't dare stop Don Vincenzo Giagabioni's daughter.

"Let's see what we can find him, okay?" She grinned at the man, taking the curve a bit faster then probably necessary.

 

[silvertongue217]

ONE HOUR LATER

"So what do you think?"

Dante turned to his grandfather trying to weight his options and the correct response. Their dinner was finished and the two were in the parlor room of Vincenzo's mansion villa. The man himself had long retired going upstairs to take care of some last minute business and to let the two catch up and talk. Dinner was a elegant affair but one of buisness with the two of them wasting little time in telling him that he was a part of the family know and offering him some work.

Illegal work

Thankfully there had been no mafia bull shit. The two ran a criminal enterprise and had no qualms telling him that. They had their hand in most every thing and due to their actions and influence Cosa Nostra was effectively their island fortress as well as their primary distribution center.

So what did they want with him? Even though the island was locked down there was still a need for a head of security. There current guy and Capo was retiring and even though there were plenty of up and comers who wanted the job no one had the experience like him. He was tactical a asset to the organization that could be used to make it much more capable.

Yet he was still on the fence

"I served my country with honor" He told his grandfather as some one brought them both a tumbler of scotch "I knew what I was getting into and yet I did it because I wanted to do some thing more with my life... This feels like going against that"

"I understand" Alfonzo said his eyes contemplative as he looked at Dante "But think of it this way son in our world... Well there is no black and white you might not be doing honorable work but you would be working with people who would accept you for who you are that and there would be no getting your hands dirty you would be leading people and protecting the family from any threats against it"

"And training people as well" Dante reminded him laughing.

"They would be doing it with or without you" Alfonzo said with a laugh. He drained his scotch and got up looking down at him.

"Kid your my grandson and I will accept any choice you make but please sleep on it the boss put you up in one of his guest rooms for the night so please get your self some rest and we can discuss it in the morning"

His grandfather reached down clapping his shoulder before turning on his heel. He left moments later saying his good bye's to the men posted outside of the mansion and leaving Dante alone in the wolf house. Dante decided to make the most of it and to enjoy himself for the time being.

He went to his guest room and after pulling off his jacket and his shirt stepped out onto the balcony. He found one of the cigars he brought from Vietnam and lit before taking a deep drag. He blew out the smoke slowly and looked up watching the evening give way to the night and stars.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Isabella had pretty much known what she was going to get her Daddy - it had been a good choice before and she could always fall back on it. There were a couple bottles of '31 and '46 wine that she knew he would like. Robert had had them put away for her. Daddy's birthday was in 3 days and there was sure to be a big celebration. After all, there always was.

She had had dinner while in town. She knew that Daddy was entertaining someone associated with Mr. Riveria. Probably that new guy that she saw talking to Leo. The man was good looking...

She put on her swimsuit - she had paid extra money just to get the exact same suit that some American model had worn of the cover of a magazine. Slipping on her cover-up, she headed out to the pool. This was her favorite time of day to swim. The quiet of the place, which usually bothered her, actually made the swim more enjoyable.

Once down to the pool, she took off the cover-up and pitched it on a lounger. She walked to the deep end and stood for a second, watching the water. Then, with no hesitation, she dove in, making a clean splash into the cool blue water. She swam under the water along the bottom for about 3/4th of the pool, dappled water above her and the pool lights glowing on her as she headed up to break the surface. She went easily into a standard swim. Upon reaching the edge, she flipped and began swimming back to the other side.

Around the 3rd lap, a maid appeared carrying a large fluffy towel under one arm and a drink on a tray. She sat the towel at the foot of the lounger and the drink on the small table beside the seat. Then, without a word, the maid turned and left while Isabella continued her swim.

She did easily 5 laps, always at a steady pace. Even to an untrained eye, one could tell that this was done from habit, a daily occurrence. When she finished the 5th lap, using the ladder she climbed out of the pool. Water dripped off her, leaving a wet trail as she crossed and picked up the towel, blotting her body and lightly towel drying her hair. She slipped the cover-up back on and leaned back in the lounger, slowly sipping the drink as she appeared to be watching the stars appear for the evening. She relaxed there, head down and sighed.

"Blue?" With the sound of the voice, her posture stiffened. Damn, she hated Leo.

"This is my alone time, Leo. I wish that you would do just that."

He walked behind her and reach down, sliding his hands on her shoulders. You could see the tension in her as she tried to pull away. "I don't know why you insist on avoiding me. Your father would approve."

"But I don't. Now, leave me alone!" Her voice was low but terse. She downed the last of her drink, slamming the glass on the tabletop. The glass shattered and she felt the pain in her left hand. Angry, she got up and left Leo by the pool, and occasional drop of blood showing the direction of her exit.

The swimsuit
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/aa/d2/a3/aad2a341f37b661df50adc947c46df50.jpg

 

[silvertongue217]

The sound of a splash of water caught his attention

Dante moved to the railing of the balcony and turned his head toward the sound. He spotted a pool nestled against the middle of the garden right where the estate opened up. It was a decent sized pool with a few fixings and furnishings that spoke of wealth and taste however Dante ignored all that instead watching the girl as she swam through the water.

It was the same girl from earlier the pretty girl who had caught his eye before leaving the mansion. She was clad in a pink bikini her body on display in such a tantalizing way. He tried not to stare to much as he watched her tracking her movements in the pool back and forth. The way she cut through the water was impressive and he felt a shiver of desire run up his spine as he openly starred at her. He continued watching her for several seconds and began to inch away when he noticed she was finishing.

But then

A man came out, the one called Leo. He came over to talk to him and Dante noticed her posture changed. She clearly didnt want to be talking to him and she even looked uncomfortable with the exchange. Gone was the carefree girl swimming and instead she edged away from him as he kept pressing her to speak.

"Leo Man!" Dante said before he could stop himself. He stuck his hand out waving at the guy as their eyes caught.

"I dont think the lady is to interested in talking to you right now" Dante said leaning against the railing "How bout giving her some space?"

 

[Opensesame54321]

As Isabella left the pool area, she heard someone call out. Whether it was to her or Leo, she didn't know, nor in truth care. She continued heading for the house, but not before she heard Leo call out to the unknown voice, "This doesn't concern you!"

She headed for the kitchen. Once there, the Cook noticed her bleeding hand and the trail of blood.

"Isa. Dear, what happened?"

"Accident. There's a broken glass by the pool. Sorry." Cook could tell by the way Isabella answered that there was more to the story. She had been with the family for years, was almost like an unofficial mother to Isabella ever since the young lady's mother had died. She was the one that talked to her about the facts of life. She knew her well, and she now knew dear Isa was upset.

The large woman clucked over the cut. It wasn't too bad but she wrapped it up to protect it before drawing Isabella up into her arms.

"Isa, you want to tell me what it is?" She hugged her until Cook felt Isa pull herself together.

"I'm fine, Cook. Thank you." She hugged the large woman back. "You've had a long day. I'll let you get to bed." Isabella kissed the woman's cheek, the faint scent of food enveloping her. It was a comforting smell, a memory smell of happy afternoons in the kitchen making pasta and cookies and bread. It washed over her, calming her.

Isabella smiled at Cook. Her hand was starting to throb a bit. She ignored it. Growing up with the "family" had made her tough in some things.

She headed for her room - it had been a long day and she had had enough of Leo.

 

[silvertongue217]

THE NEXT DAY

For better or worse he took the job.

Was it the smartest thing to do? Jury was still out on that but it was the closest thing he had to his birth family. So for better or worse he was in. The next two days were spent in a whirl wind of activity. He was shown around the island and taken to the main area of operations. It was a old run down whaling wharehouse and business that had become a drug and smugglers operation. Dante tried not to balk at the drugs and weapons and instead did his best to approach it as a military operation (which of course was what they wanted). It only took him a half an hour to spot several holes in their security system and preparations. His grandfather and the big boss himself were surprisingly open to his suggestions. The next few days were spent hashing out a security plan and getting the team properly equipped.

It was decided he would stay in the mansion since it was the main operations and base. At first he protested reminding them that the point was to grow closer to the family he didnt know but his grandfather and Vincenzo both insisted he stay in the lap of luxury, beside his grandfather was here more often than he was at home so it made sense.

There was also the girl

Try as he might they never got a chance to talk. He found out it was Vincenzo's daughter and that she was largely unaware of what happened in the operations. He also learned Vincenzo liked to keep it that way. He was fiercely protective of his daughter a fact that Leo liked to take advantage of.

Leo

Any thought of getting in good with him was gone after he stopped him from forcing him self on her. He treated him with utter contempt and frequently disobeyed him. There was now a pissing contest between them that Dante could case less to have. He knew it would blow up sooner rather than later but for now he did his best to ignore him.

TWO DAYS AFTER HE ARRIVED

Dante came in closing the door behind him and rubbing the back of his neck. He pulled off his new black suit jacket exposing his pistol as he moved into the kitchen.

"Hello?" He called out cocking his head. The silence surprised him as usually some one was around and about in the house. Yet it seemed for once he was alone.

"Sweet" He murmured making himself a quick bite to eat. Once he was set he grabbed a bear and moved going out to the pool to relax and enjoy himself.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Isabella and Cook entered the kitchen from the dining room. They had been planning Daddy's birthday party. Tomorrow was the big day and tomorrow night was the party. It was planned to just be a cocktail type party instead of a sit down dinner.

"Don't worry, Isa. I make sure everything is just as you wish it." Cook headed for the pantry to make her grocery list. Isabella was left in the kitchen making notes. She suddenly felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

Turning around, she saw Leo standing in the doorway leading into the hall.

"Preparing for your father's party?" He had that predator look to him, like a shark looking at his next meal.

"Yes." Her answer was abrupt.

"Isa, why do you..."

"Don't you call me that! Only one person calls me that." She moved to the door leading outside. She wanted to put space between Leo and herself.

She no sooner stepped through the door and out to the pool area before Leo caught up to her. He grabbed her arm and swung her around, pulling her in to him. She was pinned against him with the arm he held twisted behind her back.

"Isa, when are you going to learn that you belong to me? I want it and I always get what I want." He tried to kiss her but she was having none of that. Her free hand came back and slapped him. The noise was loud, seeming to echo off the water of the pool.

"Let me go!"

 

[silvertongue217]

He was just about to go up and get his swim suit when her shout reached him.

He froze turning quickly on his heel and barging in. He took the scene in quickly his eyes narrowing on Leo at the same time Leo let go of her.

"Get out of here before I-"

Dante didnt let him finish. He jumped forward coming at him so fast the poor guy could not react. Dante's elbow slammed into his nose breaking it with a solid CRUNCH. Dante didnt give him the time to react to his injury instead grabbing him by the back of his neck and turning him hard towards the door.

"I think its time for you to go" He growled grabbing his arm and forcing it behind his back. He twisted it for good measure and marched him out and to the door.

"You ever show your face around here and I tell the boss what you did to his daughter" Dante growled. The threat was enough to turn the man ghostly white and to stop his movement. Dante opened the door and tossed him out giving him a dirty look before slamming the door shut.

"Are you okay Isabella?" He asked her coming back into the kitchen and checking her wrist.

 

[Opensesame54321]

The instant that Leo saw the figure come up behind her, he let go of her and Isabella got away from both of them.

Get out of here before I-

The new guy didn't let him finish before elbows were flying and she thought that she heard Leo's nose break. The guy proceeded to warn Leo to leave her alone or he'd inform her Father on just what the scumbag had been doing to his daughter.

As he escorted Leo from the area, Isabella headed into the kitchen, looking to put some ice on her wrist. She didn't want it to swell.

Are you okay Isabella?

The new guy was there suddenly, worried about her. She nodded and got the ice tray out. It was hard to pull up on the lever to release the ice and she gave the metal tray to him so he could open it.

"I'll survive. Thank you. Leo doesn't usually take no for an answer. You know that he'll make life hell for you. You've made an enemy."

She watched him. "You obviously know who I am. All I know is you're new."

 

[silvertongue217]

"enemies dont bother me miss" Dante said a small smile tugging at his mouth "Besides didnt I inherit enemies when I took the job?"

He inspected her wrist for a few more seconds before turning to the ice chest "My name is Dante Miss I am the new head of security" He told her putting some ice in a rag and bringing it over to her.

"Put that on your wrist and hold it there" He told her his eyes meeting and locking with hers "Should feel better and prevent any swelling he didnt grip you to hard but if there are any marks this will help"

 

[Opensesame54321]

Besides didnt I inherit enemies when I took the job?

She gave a little laugh. "Yes, I guess you did." He inspected her wrist and she felt a little thrill at his touch. There was nothing sexual about it, he was just checking her wrist as one would a bird with a hurt wing, and yet, she felt a flutter in her stomach.

My name is Dante Miss I am the new head of security

"Hello Dante. Thank you for rescuing me, though, all it did was delay the inevitable. Leo doesn't give up easily. He considers himself high up enough on the ladder that he thinks he can have the bosses daughter if he wants her. I personally find him repugnant."

Put that on your wrist and hold it there. Should feel better and prevent any swelling he didnt grip you to hard but if there are any marks this will help

His eyes locked with hers and his green eyes seemed to look deep into her brown ones. She held her breath for a moment before tearing away from his gaze to look down at the ice she held to her wrist.

"Thank you, Dante." She was afraid to look at him and gave a slight nod before turning to leave the kitchen.

She ran into Cook as the woman was coming out of the pantry. The woman saw Isabella holding ice to her wrist.

"Isa, what happened? You hurt your wrist?"

"Yes," Isabella answered. "But a friend helped me get ice."

Cook looked confused by Isabella's words until she entered the kitchen and saw Dante. She nodded, now understanding the young lady's words.

 

[silvertongue217]

He smiled and nodded back at her before turning and following the girl. It was his first chance to really talk to her and she was already leaving!

"I doubt he will come back and bother you" He told her following her "I let him know I would tell your father what happened if he did"

He moved with her to the staircase and paused by it "Would you like to go swimming or some thing?" He asked her raising an eyebrow "Your fathers mansion is great and all but it has a distinct lack of people to talk to that are my age...."

 

[Opensesame54321]

She moved through the hall and suddenly Dante was walking beside her.

I doubt he will come back and bother you. I let him know I would tell your father what happened if he did.

"Yeah, well, Leo will try to get away with what he can. He figures he's got the ear of Daddy and his capo. He'll push you are far as he can, make you fail if possible. Just a heads up. Tomorrow night is Daddy's birthday party. If he can embarrass you on something like that, he will."

He stopped her on the staircase.

Would you like to go swimming or some thing? Your fathers mansion is great and all but it has a distinct lack of people to talk to that are my age....

She stopped and looked at him. He was very striking looking, those green eyes holding her gaze.

"I usually swim at the same time each evening. But right now I need to go into town and get some things for Daddy's party. I need to find my bodyguard, Robert. Since you're in charge of security, would you let him know to meet me at my car in 15 minutes. Otherwise, I could meet you at the pool at sundown."

She took a couple of steps up and the turned to look back at him.

"I agree. This place is sadly lacking in things to do for people our age. Hopefully you can come up with some ideas."

She smiled at him and then turned, heading up the stairs. She hummed as she changed clothes. He really was striking, good looking. Most guys their age were spoiled. She stopped. Guess she was too. A product of her environment. An excuse but still true.

But he was different - grounded, very adult. Hell, the way he had handled Leo was impressive. Most people were scared of Leo. He didn't bat an eye as he broke the man's nose. Would definitely change his smarmy looks.

Maybe he would swim with her later on today. Would be nice...

 

[silvertongue217]

"Ill be there!" Came his reply as a wide smile split on his face. He did his best to hide it until she couldnt see before he gave a whoop of pleasure. Dante didnt know why he was so happy she had accepted his proposition but fuck he was!

He turned deciding to spend his time waiting following her advice. Leo was a pissant as far as he was concerned but he did know the organization. He could potentially be a threat. So Dante spent the hour calling letting their various places know that he night or might not be coming and to keep a look out.

Once he was done he changed into his tight navy blue boxer shorts. He took a minute to make sure he was freshly shaved and presentable before he went down moving to sit on the chair and wait for her to join him.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Robert was waiting by the car and the two of them made a quick trip into town to pickup the last things for tomorrow night's party. They got back before dusk.

She headed up to her room. She didn't know if Dante would be there but she somehow thought that he might. She slipped on her swimsuit and coverup before heading down to the pool.

He was sitting in a chair by the pool and she felt a little thrill. Dante was good looking. There was something about him that was different. She knew people like Benny and Paul. They were tough and burly, usually scaring people because of how tough they looked. Leo scared people because he looked dangerous, like a snake looks dangerous.

But Dante didn't look dangerous. He looked like he could take care of himself, and she had seen him fight Leo so she knew that he could be dangerous. But he was missing that edge, something she had seen it even in her Daddy, once when someone had crossed him. She knew she was safe with him. But she had seen grown men leave a meeting with Daddy with all color from their faces.

Isabella walked over to him. "I see you made it." She gave him a brief smile before heading to the end of the pool. She stood for a moment looking at the water before she looked at Dante, gave him a smile, and dived into the pool.

 

[silvertongue217]

When she came out he rose his eyes raking over her body. It was probably a bad idea to leer at the boss's daughter but there he was eye fucking her and checking her out. He couldnt resist a purr of pleasure that fell from his mouth as she approached and he smiled at her comment.

"I always try to keep my promises" He told her smiling as he moved to help her with her cover up "Especially to a pretty girl"

He helped her out of it and folded it neatly placing it on the chair.

"So I notice you do laps every day" He said to her smiling "Would you like to do a few together? I would say we could race but im ninety percent sure you would beat me"

 

[Opensesame54321]

So I notice you do laps every day. Would you like to do a few together? I would say we could race but im ninety percent sure you would beat me

"I always do 5 laps. Not to race. It's just a habit that I developed. You're more than welcome to join me."

And with that she dove in, swimming along the bottom of the pool for the first 3/4ths of the pool. For the last 1/4th, she broke the surface of the water, and looked to see where Dante was.

 

[silvertongue217]

He was right behind her trailing behind but seemingly on his own accord. He was not pushing himself at least not yet. His arms sliced through the water pushing himself forward as he kicked. The water streamed off of his body cutting across his abs and his muscular shoulders as he finished the lap.

"Wow you can move" He said to her as they neared the end. He touched the side and grabbed it pulling him self up easily. He seated himself on the edge and watched her smiling softly.

"Have you ever competed? Or any thing along those lines?" He asked her raising an eyebrow genuinely curious.

 

[Opensesame54321]

Wow you can move

Though he swam a bit behind her, he still managed to keep up with her. And though she swan neither fast nor slow, she did swim steady. He came to the side and lifted himself out of the water. Sitting there with his feet still in the water, he continued to watch.

Have you ever competed? Or any thing along those lines?

She stopped swimming and hoisted herself out if the water to sit beside him.

"I only swim 5 laps, never more. And very rarely less. And I don't swim faster. I swim for the enjoyment. And for the exercise."

She smiled at him. "Just what makes someone like you join the Family?" She was genuinely interested as he didn't really fit in as the average family member.

 

[silvertongue217]

Dante laughed at her question.

"I guess FOR family" He said kicking at the water and leaning back "My grandfather invited me here once my mom died I guess on her death bed she admitted she had me I grew up in a boys home before so it was a shock to find out I had a whole family waiting and they were well off" Dante said waving his hand at the mansion.

"Crime was never my thing they say its easier in the states for a black man to go to a life of crime then live as a honest man but the father at my orphanage wouldnt dare let any of us walk that path" Dante explained looking up at the sun.

"But this is my chance to learn about my family so here I am for better or worse" He told her being honest "What about you? Do you know much about what goes on behind closed doors? so to speak?"

 

[Opensesame54321]

Isabella listened to Dante talk. Black? She had thought that he looked Spanish but not quite. He had a kind of exotic look to him but with those green eyes, they took your breath away. That explained it. Family? Who was his family?

"Who is your grandfather? I'm afraid that I'm not privy to a lot of the information that goes on here. I know that Daddy has his fingers in a lot of pies but I don't know what they are. Nor do I really care. That's his business. Some of his employees I like, some I don't. Some of his employees I trust with my life, and some I wouldn't trust no matter what."

She looked him in the eye.

"So no, I don't know what goes on behind closed doors. I know that he makes money."