SHE IS THE MAFIA (BOOK#2)

Chapter 19

Mirror, Mirror on the wall.
I am starting to recognize myself again. I guess my mask has begun to fade and the walls are tumbling down. The weekend was not as relaxing as I initially thought it would be. I spent my Sunday in the study reading, keeping my mind as far away from reality as possible. Elias didn't bother me, sensing the negative aura I was radiating all day long. 

But today is Monday.
There is no avoiding people or dodging conversations. I have to go out into the world pretending that my life hasn't been shaken up. I have so many ideas on how to handle Kindle's situation. None of them end well for her husband, but I have to discuss with her which route to take. 

I put down the scissors.
The white tips of my hair lay on the sink.
My curls fall barely an inch under my ear, still the jet black color.

My hand runs through my damp head, feeling the loss of the hair I had grown for six years. I thought maybe if I didn't cut my hair, I wouldn't remind myself of the 18-year-old version of myself. Back when I had short hair and went on a blind murder spree. Maybe I wouldn't remind myself of how I had lost my mind.

But when did I ever FIND my mind? 
Clearly, I was lying to myself.

I pull out the diffuser and begin to dry my hair. I should be downstairs eating breakfast right now. I woke up late... again. Nothing out of the usual, but today I have some important tasks to do. 

I check myself out in the mirror one last time. I tug on the fabric of the turtleneck and smooth out the black pants. A strong breeze blows outside indicating yet another chilly day. Soon the leaves will start changing color, everything will start dying in autumn. 

I dial Malachi's number as I make my way to the dining room. 

"Hello, Madam Mafia,"

"Mr. Consigliere," I smile as take steps down the stairs, "How are you this fine morning?"

"Only you would think a gloomy like this is fine. But I am well, and you?"

"I am also well. I have a favor to ask you," I say slowly, stopping in the hallway.

"Mhm... go on,"

"I am going to need you to take my place for a couple of days... at my office. I have something that could be considered a family matter to attend to. I need three days maximum to get things done,"

The other line goes silent for a second.
"Tempest,"

"Yeah,"

"I know it's been a while, but there is something in your tone that tells me whatever you're about to do is dangerous,"

I think about what he said. I mean it won't be dangerous... for me at least. 

I pace back and forth, "It's not dangerous. It's just a teensy weensy problem I have to take care of. Besides, don't question me on the things that I do. I am your boss," I joke. But I am not joking at the same time. Malachi can't really say no to me, especially considering the position I am in. I don't want to abuse my power, but if I have to... I will, "So, can you find someone to take over for you? I need my trusty consigliere,"

He sighs, "Yes, of course, I can be there for you. I will come in around eleven,"

"Perfect, thank you,"

I hang up and walk into the dining room where breakfast awaits. Elias is already seated with waffles in front of him, but it doesn't seem like he has started eating. He looks up from his phone.

His eyes widen.

"Good morning," I say, taking a seat at the head of the table, "Blueberry waffles are my favorite," I put some on my plate with a smile.