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She's known it from a distance but has never been so deeply involved.
To put her mind at ease, I give her a brief rundown of the people she'll meet tonight.
"Among the guests will be Moretti and his wife, Lucia," I begin, observing her.
"He is an old friend of mine and a loyal ally.
Then there's Vittorio De Luca, who runs a tight ship within his family.
He has a reputation for being ruthless, but he respects me, and you'll be safe."
As I continue listing the names and backgrounds of the attendees, I notice Emily's expression remains steadfast, and I assume her curiosity is piqued.
She's beginning to understand the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics at play here.
"Only a few close friends and associates," I add, trying to put her at ease.
"There's nothing to be afraid of, Emily. You'll be safe with me."
As I watch her work through her thoughts, I can't help but admire her beauty and strength.
She may be nervous, but she's facing this new life head-on, and I can only respect her for that.
The way she worries about fitting in, about finding her place in this dangerous world, only makes me want to protect her more.
"Alright," she finally says, a hint of determination in her eyes. "I can do this."
"They will think you are the most stunning woman they have ever seen, as I do."
I squeeze her hands, trying to reassure her just a little further.
"The Morellis, The Gambinos, even the damn Riccis will be envious that I have you on my arm."
Emily's eyes widen, panic flickering in their sea-glass depths.
The families I named are some of the most powerful in our underworld.
"You didn't tell me the Riccis would be there!"
I chuckle, picturing the looks on the Ricci Dons faces when they see Emily.
If only Emily could see her grace and intelligence through my eyes.
She will put their men and women to shame.
"Do not worry about them, amore mio. I will be at your side the entire night."
I release one of her hands to brush a stray curl behind her ear.
"Don’t be nervous.”
Emily nods, the tension visibly leaving her shoulders as she rises from her seat and disappears down the hallway.
I take a deep breath, knowing that tonight will be a turning point for us - one way or another.
I haven't brought this particular topic up with her yet, but I have been thinking about what it could mean to have a wife, which would mean she'd be deeply involved in my life, hosting parties and entertaining guests.
I can't wait to observe her in my world to see how she stands her ground tonight.
