Page 108 of The Billionaire's Destiny

“Thank you, Grandmother.”

“The dress is a Watson?” It was so similar to hers, and the glimmer in her eye let me know she was touched by it.

“Yes, it is. I love the color.”

Her manicured fingers traced the diamonds at my throat. “Esposito. Did you know that necklace had a twin, a Longfellow heirloom? It’s wonderful to see it again.” There was a story there, one I’d have to ask about later. For now, I caught Rocco’s eye; his small shrug told me to just let it be. Grandmother was happy, and that was enough.

She smiled, then let go of me and walked over to Rocco, reaching out her hand. “Welcome, Rocco. We’re so glad you could join us tonight.” Her greeting was polite and respectful, so different from the cold welcomes she used to give.

Rocco shook her hand. “Thank you, Constance.”

“The Age of Sinwas a work of art,” she added.

“I’m glad to hear you liked it,” Rocco said with surprise in his voice.

We walked inside, and she stopped me, holding me at arm’s length to look me over.

“You look a little flushed. Are you too warm? Do you need a fan? When did you last eat?” She peppered me with questions, her fussing as relentless as ever. But I remembered Jacob’s words: her fussing was justlove in disguise.

“I’m fine, just hungry.”

“Yes. With a baby on the way, you need to eat more,” she cheerfully said.

“Constance, let them come in,” Grandfather said. He walked over in a pristine tailored suit, looking as refined as always, something I had always admired. He went to Rocco and put a gentle hand on his shoulder, a friendlier gesture than I’d ever seen from him. “Hello, Rocco. It’s good to see you again.”

“Good to see you, too, Reg.”

“I hope you don’t mind, but I invited a few friends over to dinner to hear about your movie studio.”

Rocco’s eyes widened. “Thank you, Reginald, Constance. I’d be happy to talk about my work with them.” His tone wascasual, but I knew this was a big deal. The Belfiores weren’t the wealthiest, but their history was part of New York’s culture, and their influence went beyond money. My grandfather was opening a door that even Luca’s billions and resources couldn’t reach.

Tears pricked my eyes, and I turned away. My grandparents’ friends were the kind who frequented country clubs and made rare appearances at family gatherings. I could hardly believe they wanted to help Rocco’s movie studio.Grandfather must have cashed in every favor he had.

“Adelina.” It was Grandfather calling me.

“One second,” I said, wiping my eyes before turning back. “You’re helping Rocco?”

“I’m putting him in the room. He’ll have to win them over.” He tried to sound nonchalant, but I noticed caterers gliding down the hall with flowers and trays of food. Grandfather had gone far beyond a simple gesture.

I shook my head. “It’s more than that. You’re helping us.”

Grandfather sighed. “That’s what family does.”

I pressed a hand to my stomach and bowed my head, hiding the tears that slipped down my cheeks. It was almost too much to process. He thought of us as a part of his family. I fought so hard to gain their approval and acceptance. But it wasn’t just me that he was accepting. My grandfather had sworn to never help a Marini with business, yet here he was standing by us now.

“I’m sorry. I don’t understand.” I raised my head. “Please explain.”

He looked at me kindly and took my hands. “I’m doing this for you, Adelina. Your life was hard, and we made it harder, but you never stopped trying. You’ve strengthened our family, giving us a new generation, and we’re very grateful. It’s only right that we help now.” He blew out. I’m not good with this stuff. But Icouldn’t ask for a better grandchild. We’re so proud of you and Jacob.”

All I’d done over the years hadn’t gone unnoticed. Our burdens, once heavy, now felt lighter as though we were finally sharing the weight. The trembling in my hands calmed, and I knew we were more than our past hardships. We had become a real family.

“Thank you, Grandfather.”

He opened his arms wide, and I hugged him tight.

“We love you, Adelina. I…I love you.”

“I love you, too.”