“Yes. Javier and I stood guard outside the padded room during her treatment.”
My heart sinks. I had no idea.
“It was clear Serenity was ashamed of her condition. I never treated her any differently. It’s not her fault some vile bastards tormented her and her family.”
He slides his hands into his pockets. “Five years ago, she was tormenting Steven.”
I recall Steven—the head of Cichello security, the gatekeeper for anyone wanting contact with the Cichello mafia family, one of Tizáno’s most trusted men.
He goes on. “She had lost touch with reality. Javier called her name, trying to bring her back. I slipped a pair of pliers into her hand and squeezed. Looking her in the eye, I said, ‘You’re here, boss. And you’re in control.’”
He smirks. “That snapped her back.”
I give his shoulder a squeeze. “Thanks for looking out for her.”
“Never a problem, boss,” he replies, heading toward the other bodyguards gathered in the living room.
I continue down the hallway. Dr. Jonas comes into view outside my office.
“Dr. Jonas, how is she doing?”
“You can call me Ms. Jonas.”
“But you’re a doctor,” I press.
“I haven’t practiced medicine in years. My license was revoked. Only a handful of patients still place their faith in me.” Her fingers tighten around her tablet.
“Serenity is calm now,” she adds, shifting the topic.
Its obvious something traumatic happened. I’ll dig deeper. I better not find out someone had done some dirty shit to my wife’s doctor.
“Good,” I respond.
“She’s resumed her medication. It’s crucial she takes it daily for two weeks. She’ll begin to feel like herself soon, but continuing the meds is recommended.”
“Understood.”
She smiles. “I never thought she’d have a child. Or get married, for that matter.”
“I didn’t give her a choice.” I smirk.
We laugh.
Her smile fades. “Thank you for standing by her. Most would’ve walked away.”
“Thank you for treating her.”
“Call me if you need anything,” she offers.
“I will,” I say, motioning for Angel.
“Escort Ms. Jonas to her vehicle.”
“Yes, Nico,” Angel answers.
I move closer to the door, taking a deep breath in and out.
This is the only woman I ever wanted to be with. I don’t care anymore that she stole our child. All that matters is we’re together. Pushing down my emotions, I step inside.
