Read Online La Bella Mafia by Ashley & JaQuavis - Free Book Online

right up to Carter. “You must be Carter,” he said as he held out his hand. “You’re the spitting image of your father. He and I had some good times in America as young men. Before the wives and the children.” The man paused and inhaled long and deep as he reveled in the fond memories. “To be young and rich again,” he said. Carter gave him a firm handshake.
    â€œYou must be Mr. Baraka,” Carter replied. Polo had made the connection so Carter knew that they were in safe hands. “This is my brother Monroe and my good friend Zyir. Thank you for extending the invitation.”
    â€œA son of Carter Diamond is a son of mine. I owed your father my life. He was a good man. I was very saddened to learn of his death,” Baraka stated.
    â€œAs were we,” Carter replied, keeping it short. “Thank you.”
    â€œShall we?” Baraka said, extending his arm toward their awaiting vehicles. “Monroe and Zyir can ride in the first truck while I discuss specifics with you on the way to the resort.”
    â€œResort?” Monroe questioned.
    â€œYes. I own Saudi Arabia’s largest resort and casino. Five star. I have a penthouse set up for each of you,” Baraka revealed. “It will be most comfortable.”
    Monroe nodded and headed for the truck as Carter climbed inside with Baraka.
    The scenery outside of his window was mesmerizing. He was in a desert Oasis. It was so hot outside that he could see the heat waves creating a hazy view on the other side of the glass. The tan sand dunes around him made him feel out of place. This was unfamiliar territory but it was also a safe haven. He was out of reach of all of his enemies, legit and otherwise. He felt the tension dissipate from his chest. Fear of capture had been real until this very moment, but now that he had touched Saudi soil he realized exactly why Polo had suggested this place. He was worlds away. The air didn’t even smell the same on this side of the planet and despite the fact that he missed Miamor and his son, he welcomed the change.
    â€œI couldn’t get any details from Polo as far as the troubles you are in,” Baraka said. “Please tell me.”
    Baraka was mild mannered but Carter could see nothing but boss status and old money when he looked at him. He didn’t know many old men who walked around with armed guards on a regular. Baraka was important and the rubies sitting on his ringed fingers told Carter that he came from extreme wealth. Carter had every intention on laying low but he was like a sponge. He soaked up knowledge and stored it for future use. He was all about expanding and building a usable and influential network. Something told him that Baraka was someone that he wanted on his team.
    â€œThe D.E.A. is trying to prosecute us on drug charges. They have evidence, mostly circumstantial and witnesses. There was no time to hinder their case against us. They want us behind bars to try to contain our influence over Miami. If we were free than their witnesses would never testify. We had no choice but to flee. We need time to regroup, maybe establish some networks over here,” Carter said smoothly opening the door for potential business.
    â€œWell you are welcome to stay here as long as you need to,” Baraka said.
    â€œThank you,” Carter replied. “I don’t come empty handed however. We aren’t in the business of taking handouts. Any business I conduct is mutually beneficial. There’s a saying that in a good deal both parties walk away feeling like they sacrificed a little bit.” Carter handed Baraka the briefcase that he had carried off of the plane. “A million dollars to show our appreciation for your hospitality.”
    Baraka gave Carter a chuckle as he took the case. “You are your father’s boy,” he commented.
    â€œSo I’ve heard.”
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    The word penthouse did the accommodations no justice.