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He grimaces before crossing onto the loading deck, then takes the outer stairs up to the main deck. “I’m not the fan of these things that I used to be,” he murmurs.
“I heard you haven’t been on a boat since that summer.” I lead him inside out of the cold.
“That’s right. I didn’t want anything to do with them.” D looks around appraisingly. “Damn, this is even swankier than the boats I used to clean.”
I attempt to shrug off the surge of pride filling my chest. “She does the job nicely.”
“You even have an aquarium.” He squints, studying the tank. “No fish?”
“That’s Florin. She’s not big on roommates.” I go to the bar fridge and take out a shrimp to drop in the tank. We both watch as the vibrant eel emerges from her hiding spot to gulp down the snack.
“Shit, man. That’s badass. You have a pet eel.” The awe in his voice makes me want to show him every damn nook and cranny on the boat. I’d forgotten how great it feels to share things with my twin.
“You have any pets?”
“A dog.” He looks at me, astonished curiosity crinkling his brow. “You know, I have to wonder if that twin connection was somehow still alive even when we were apart.”
“Why’s that?”
“My dog’s name is Bonny—after the pirate Anne Bonny.” He grins. “Of all the things I could have named her, the fact that I chose a pirate is pretty freaking coincidental.”
“You calling me a pirate?” I try to keep a straight face but fail.
“I mean, if the shoe fits.”
A smirk tugs at my lips. “Well, I’m not too shabby at fishing with a bow or a spear.”
“No shit? I guess that explains the arrow at Renzo’s place a while back. We thought fucking Robin Hood was making an appearance.”
I laugh because I can imagine how strange it would have been finding the arrow. “Too dramatic?”
“Made a statement, that’s for sure. What else did you learn?”
I lead us to the sofa where we sit and share some of the more interesting experiences we’ve had over the years. We have a ton to catch up on, but I’m pleased at how easily we fall back into step with one another.
“When did you decide to join the Morettis?” I ask after hearing a number of stories about his early years in the family.
“I went to Cosimo as soon as I got out of jail. After two years inside, and after what I’d done, I didn’t feel like school was an option.”
“I get that,” I respond quietly, my eyes dropping briefly to my hands. “I think that’s a small part of the reason I didn’t push to reach out. I was worried I didn’t fit this life anymore. I regret that now.”
“Don’t do that, man,” D urges me. “There was nothing easy about your situation. You never have to feel any guilt as far as I’m concerned. Honestly, I’m still stunned you’re alive. I never imagined after seeing all that blood at the warehouse that I’d ever see you again.” He huffs, then shakes his head. “Just think about all that wasted time I spent at the cemetery.”
We both try to keep a straight face and fail miserably.
“Sorry to disappoint.” I joke through our laughter, but my brother sobers quickly.
“Best damn surprise of my life. I’d happily sit at that cemetery every damn day if it means keeping you here.”
My heart is so goddam full, it’s hard to breathe.
“I appreciate that, but no need to pitch a tent. I’m not going anywhere.”
“Work with me,” he says immediately. “My boss and I are close. You say the word, and I’ll talk to him.”
“Again, I appreciate it, but I think there’s something else calling me. Isa works with a group who tracks down and rescues women and children who are being trafficked. I think I could help them out, and it would make me feel better about some of the things I’ve seen and done.” I don’t go into detail and am relieved he doesn’t push for more.
“I think that’s a great idea, man. I really respect it.” He leans in, the corner of his mouth crooking upward. “And the offer doesn’t expire, in case things change.”
