Her musical laugh followed me.
I jerked open the door, expecting to see someone I knew, but instead, I was greeted by a tall, distinguished-looking man dressed in what I knew was an Armani custom suit because I had one for special events. His black hair and olive skin made me think he was Italian. There was something about the way his eyes were shaped. They were brown but familiar.
“Does a Reese Ellis reside here?” he asked, his accent not as thick as I was expecting. He kind of reminded me of the Hollywood version of a Mafia lord.
“She did,” I replied, not liking that this man knew Reese’s name and was looking for her.
“I’m Reese Ellis,” she said, coming up behind me.
Shit. I didn’t want her coming to the door. Something about this man concerned me.
“Can I help you?” she asked, studying the man curiously.
“Baby, I got this,” I whispered, moving her back behind me with one arm and making sure my body covered her.
The corner of the man’s mouth lifted as if he was amused. “I’m glad to see Reese has someone to protect her. However, I’ve waited twenty-three years to meet her.” He held out his hand to me. “I’m Benedetto DeCarlo, Reese’s father.”