“With all due respect, Papa, I won’t back down. If it means confronting Sergio myself, then so be it.”
Dad’s eyes darken as he grips my arm, holding my gaze firmly. “This isn’t just about the Italian mafia. This problem of Tizáno’s involves the Russians too. You aren’t ready to go to war.”
“I’ll get ready. What do I need to do to become a made man now?”
Dad can see the seriousness in my eyes. “You’re in love with a woman who doesn’t love you back. And now you’re saying you’re willing to go to war for her.”
It feels like he twisted a knife in my chest. Anger courses through my veins.
I stand to my feet. “My father isn’t willing to help his son, the future mafia boss of the Pituccos. Thanks Dad.”
He shoots to his feet. “Because of your brother falling in love, I’ve got my own problem to deal with in Delaware.”
I know he’s talking about the problem with Nick’s failed arranged marriage and his ex-girlfriend Kinsley.
Mom returns, taking up my plate that I never touched.
“I’ll wrap this to go. Come to the kitchen and get it,” she orders.
I nod.
“Dad, I’ll reach out to Nick. You know he won’t turn me away.”
“Yeah, he’ll help all right because he’s ready to self-destruct.Right now, he’s got family matters to deal with. I’m ordering you to stand down.”
I wrap my arms around my ailing father. “I’ll back off.”
He relaxes against my frame. I release him and saunter into the kitchen.
“I added my homemade bread, which you love so much.” She cups my face with one hand.
“Your father has to get chemo twice a week. It’s taking its toll on him.”
For the first time, I really look at my mother. There are bags under her eyes. Her beautiful dark hair isn’t rich and shiny.
“Mom, thanks for everything. I love you.”
She beams at me, slipping a folded note into my palm. Mom pulls me into a warm embrace. “Make sure to kiss your dad goodbye,” she says loudly, then leans in close and murmurs, “Call your grandfather.”
I press a gentle kiss to her cheek. “Thank you.”
After giving my father a kiss on the cheek, I exit the house and hop into the back seat of the Escalade.
“Where to, boss?” Miff asks.
“My dorm.”
I open my palm and peer at the words. “Take care of her.”
My icy heart thaws a little. I scroll through my phone and click on my grandfather’s contact info. I press the call button. It rings two times.
“Nico,” Granddad answers enthusiastically.
“How are you?”
“I’m well. How have you been?”
“An old man can’t complain. Your mother texted me. She says you need my assistance.”
