My phone buzzes. Glancing at the screen, I read the text.
Mrs. Cichello: She’s in labor.
Me: Thank you. On my way.
I drop everything.
Within minutes, my soldiers are driving me to the airport. The SUV tears through traffic while my mind races faster than the engine. Before long, I’m climbing the steps onto the private jet bound for Florence, Italy.
The flight feels endless.
By the time we land, darkness has swallowed the city. Warm summer air rushes through the open cabin door, carrying the scent of cypress trees and rain-soaked stone.
I slide into the backseat of the waiting Escalade and stare out the window as the lights of Florence blur past.
My hand trembles where it rests on my knee.
I curl it into a fist.
I’ve walked into wars without my pulse quickening. I’ve stared into the eyes of hulking men and never flinched.
This is different.
For the first time in my life, I’m nervous.
There’s a chance I might be the father of Serenity’s child.
The private doctor I hired meets me at the hospital and updates me on my ex.
Afterward, I pause outside the elegant private lounge down the hall from Serenity’s room, glancing inside.
Mrs. Cichello and my grandfather sit comfortably, engaged in quiet conversation.
I step into the lounge. My grandfather approaches and pulls me into a warm embrace. “It’s good to see you.”
I hold him close. “Good to see you, too.”
He steps back and gently taps my cheek twice. “Ready to find out if the baby is yours?”
“I am.”
Mrs. Cichello smirks. “I won’t say a word—I’ll let you see for yourself.”
I draw her into a brief hug. “Thank you for everything.”
“You’re welcome.”
I step back. “My men are talking with your bodyguards. Thanks for arranging the shift change—I can’t risk Serenity’s guards spotting me. When will her parents and brother arrive?”
“Around ten a.m.,” she answers.
“I’ll be leaving in a few hours. I trust you and grandfather’s men will keep them safe.”
“Good night,” they say.
Neither of them tell me the baby might not be mine. I walk down the hallway, my heart pounding so loudly it drowns out everything else.
Dr. Calhoun emerges from the room. “She’s asleep now. I’ve already taken a DNA sample from the baby.”
