Chapter 38. He’s Busy

The cab pulled over in front of the large steel gate that marked the entrance to Rico’s estate. The driver slowed to a stop, glancing at Calla through the rearview mirror.

“This is as far as I can go,” he said, nodding toward the men standing guard near the gate.

Calla nodded, already expecting that. Strangers weren’t allowed past the main gate, not without permission.

“Thank you,” She muttered quietly and paid the fare. She stepped out of the cab. The wind brushed her hair into her face as she looked up at the tall iron fence surrounding the property. It always gave her a chill, the kind that reminded her she didn’t belong here.

One of the guards, a tall man with a square jaw, spotted her and straightened up. “Miss.” he greeted with a nod. His tone was polite but cautious. “You’re here for Mr. De Romano?”

Calla’s heart skipped at the sound of his name. “Yes,” she said, adjusting her skirt. “He’s expecting me.”

She lied through her teeth. Rico had