Deep (Pagano Family #4)(108)

A man in a grey tweed jacket and black pants, looking uncomfortable in the clothes, sat on one of the upholstered chairs that made up the waiting area. Nick recognized him as Howard Slattery, the owner of the boardwalk arcade.

“He waits until his appointment, then have Fred bring him in.” He tipped his head to Cherie and turned toward the wide, burled walnut double doors, then turned back. “Send wine and flowers to Stephanie for me, please.”

“Yes, sir. Any particular kind?”

He smiled. “Italian wine. And pretty flowers. Your choice.” He turned and pushed open the doors to the office of Don Pagano, President and CEO of Pagano Brothers Shipping. And then he crossed the room and sat behind the massive walnut desk, in the tall, red leather chair.

When Fred ushered Howard Slattery into the office, Nick didn’t stand. The man walked over and extended his hand, and, when Nick shook it, bowed his head.

“I’m very sorry for your loss, Don Pagano. Your uncle was a great man.”

“Thank you, Howard. Sit and tell me your business here.”

He sat. “First, I want to thank you for seeing me. I realize you’re a very busy and important man.”

Irritated with the man’s bootlicking, Nick simply waited, keeping his eyes steadily on him.

Slattery cleared his throat. “I need help, Don. I come hoping I can ask for a favor.”

Nick moved his eyes to Fred, sitting at Slattery’s side. Fred cocked his head, his signal that the man’s problem was worth his attention, and that he had some value toward repayment. Nick looked back at Slattery.

Business as usual.

“Tell me.”


THE END