Speeding through the city, he wanted to get this over with. It was still fifteen minutes before the diner was to close. But he didn't expect there to be any customers left. He had to admit, they had great food and the business itself was top-notch, however, it didn't change what Elio had to do. His job was simple - take protection money, or make them regret not paying. Most people choose the first opinion unless they were new in the city and didn't know yet that this was Famiglia territory. After Noah expanded into Las Vegas, Elio didn't hesitate to call it their city. He was running the organization with a strong hand, mercilessly but fairly at the same time. And that's why Elio would keep on doing his job as well as he only could. Not because of Father's needs, but because he was faithful to the Las Vegas Famiglia and his Capo.
As he expected, he could see through the windows that the diner was empty. And Hunter actually was by the counter looking nervous as fuck. He knew what was waiting for him once the Made Man stepped inside. That's what made it even more ironic. He was more than aware of the consequences, yet he still ran away. Stupid wasn't what Elio would call him. Not until three days ago. Now he was just a fucking fool to think that he could make his way around the Famiglia. Around him.
He closed the car doors and moved towards the diner only to stop in his tracks when he saw Savannah emerging from the support area, still wearing a ridiculous red and white uniform that was annoyingly hugging all her curves and accentuating her lean legs that were barely covered by the material. Elio understood the concept of marketing and that was the most marketable move out there. Making people want to come, even if only to look at the waitresses but for some reason right now it made him mad that the girl was playing a part in this. Even more that she was still here, knowing that he would come. As if she wanted Satan himself to claim her.
Hunter should've let her leave earlier. She should've wanted to do it herself. After all, she knew all too well that it was the day of him paying yet another visit. Whether she knew what would happen to her boss or not, she should want to avoid meeting him ever again. It wouldn't sit well with him, as Savannah had intrigued him that last time, but it was an instinct that should kick in.
He pulled his hands in fists, trying to rein in his instinct - which was beating the living shit out of Hunter for being such a bastard. He was only adding fuel to the fire at this point. With a strong grip, he ripped the doors open. His expression hardened, eyes went darker. Rage hitting him hard, wanting to come out. It would but in its own time.
Savannah's eyes met his and she grew pale. She was even more scared now if that was actually possible. She took a few steps back, her back hitting the counter. Biting her lip, she looked so vulnerable that it only increased Elio's anger towards the owner.
"Go home, Savannah. You're done here for today," he said, stepping out of the way of the doors. She didn't move.
Elio sighed and looked at Hunter at last. The man was standing there, barely keeping his shit together. His hands were trembling and pulling them under his arms wasn't helping. Nothing would. "Tell your employee to leave," he ordered.
Hunter swallowed. "Savannah, you can go. Just be here tomorrow on time," he whispered, unable to find his voice.
She didn't fucking move.
It was just as brave as it was dumb. Her boss didn't deserve such kindness, nor did he appreciate it. Elio didn't need an audience but if she wouldn't move the fuck away and go home, he would just carry on with his job.
"It's my last warning," he paused. "Go!" he yelled, making her jump up. She lowered her head, ashamed that she couldn't stand against him to protect the old man. She sent him an apologizing look, taking her bag from the near booth. She hugged it close to her chest, her knuckles going white from the strong hold.
As she was behind Elio at last, she stopped for a second. "Please, don't hurt him," she whispered so that only he could hear it. Her request wouldn't be heard tonight, however, he still nodded his head to get her off his back. He didn't promise shit but to her it could seem like it. And that was enough for her to leave the diner.
§ § §
Another punch landed on Hunter's nose and the sound of breaking bones spread throughout the room. Already his eyes were swollen and bloody spit drooled from his jaw. He was holding his chest, feeling each rib pressing on it. On the verge of unconsciousness, Elio finally decided to stop. A long string of curses in Italian escaped from his lips. He didn’t want to stop as the rage took over most of his senses, however, killing the man wasn't his intention. He loved killing as much as the next Made Man but if he got rid of each fucker who decided to disobey an order, the Famiglia would be left with few people to do business with. He got the money after all. The first warning. That’s what it was supposed to be for now.
Elio was big on using his fists rather than any other weapon. It was more personal and much more thrilling at the same time. He
