Chapter 39: Phone Home

Pauly’s POV.

“Paul,” Eleanor’s voice startles me awake. “Paul, your phone.”

The name that flashes on the screen of my phone sends a cold finger of fear down my spine. I rush out of the bed. Grasping my phone in my hand I walked to the living room before I answer it.

“Ren?” I force down the feeling of panic waiting for the Underboss to respond.

Flashes of imagery of my sister in states of disarray flood my brain. The feeling of being out of control is rampant in my mind. Since last night, I have been reminded that regardless of how strong I am, there will always be someone stronger, someone, more powerful. Someone threatening the safety of those I care about.

“Hey Pauly,” my sister’s voice greets me. Cheska sounded happy. Carefree. Well rested. Hearing her soothed, somewhat, the jagged edges around my heart. “We made it to Chicago. You didn’t tell me your friend Olivia lives in a freaking mansion!”

“Cheska?” I cleared my throat. “Are you okay? —”