31

Rai I put on my pearl earring and tilt my head so I can hold my phone over my shoulder. Ruslan is briefing me about the security measures we spent two weeks putting in place for today’s brunch. I made the calls and had Lazlo’s wife, sister, and a few other Italian mafia leaders’ women join in. Even Sergei and Igor said it was a good plan. Kyle didn’t mention that he plotted it and let me take all the credit—not that I needed him to. Still, as someone whose ideas are always credited to others—intentionally or unintentionally—it felt nice that he left the ball in my court this time. Katia even said maybe he did it on purpose. Who knows? All I’m sure about is that nothing will screw up this day. “Get the car ready,” I say after Ruslan finishes. “Anastasia and I will come down in a few.” My muscles are straining despite the long run I went on with Ruslan and Katia this morning. We often train together to keep in shape, but lately, even physical workouts aren’t cutting it. After I hang up,