Chapter 148

Vincenzo POV

The car pulled over at the grand event hall. I adjusted my suit and stepped out. Nikolai wasn't answering his calls, and it had been hours.

Inside, I searched the room, weaving through the crowd of politicians and officials. Finally, I spotted him on the upper level, speaking to a high--ranking senator.

I headed straight for them. Nikolai saw me coming, his expression tightening for a split second before he spoke.

"Vince," he said. "I didn't think you'd be here this soon."

"Clearly," I replied.

Nikolai excused the senator, and the man left without a word. Once it was just the two of us, I didn't waste any time. "What the hell are you doing here?"

"I've been calling you," I said, my voice sharp. "No answer. I