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Will taste like.
I almost flinch when what I said dawns on me.
“Yes, will, Enzo. We talked about kids in a general sense the other night, and I know it was in the middle of sex. But if we’re in this for good, then that’s our future. I don’t see me rocking you to sleep or anything like that. But if it makes you relax and feel as cherished as you make me feel, then I’m definitely not going to stop you.”
It also makes me feel fucking vulnerable, but I don’t want to run from that. It’s an emotion I’ve tried to avoid whenever it even hints at creeping up. But I feel completely exposed right now, and I don’t want to change anything. She wants me to trust her. I do.
“Daddy, you owe me a soak in the tub.”
“Let’s go,piccolina.”
We put our clothes back on, and I tap on the window. Luigi nods as I get out and conveniently looks away as Michelle stands. He’ll wait for us to come back down. My phone buzzes as she puts her purse and wrap on the entryway table. What the hell?
“Maks, it’s rather late—”
“We have a problem. Where’s Michelle?”
“With me. Why?”
“Take her to your uncle’s. Call me when you get there. Go now.”
He hangs up, and I’m left staring at my phone then Michelle.
“What’s wrong? What happened to Laura?”
“Nothing. At least I don’t think it’s her. He wants me to take you to Uncle Salvatore’s.”
“Is it me?”
I won’t lie.
“Probably. Or it could be something that affects my entire family or all our families. That means you too now. Come on.”
She looks down at her gown. I know she’d rather be in something more comfortable, but there isn’t time to go to her place. I know Aunt Sylvia would offer her something, but they aren’t the same size. Chellie is somewhere between Serafina and Maria. I tap Carmine’s contact as I open the door and usher Chellie out.
“Are you at Uncle Sal’s yet?”
“Hey. We’re about to leave.”
“Can Sera grab some jeans and a shirt or something like that, please?”
“Why?”
“Michelle and I are coming from her gala. I have clothes there, but she’s still in her gown.”
Chellie is shaking her head, mortified at what I’m asking. She’s never met my family for real. I kiss her temple as we get on the elevator.
“Sure. I’ll ask her right now. Fina!”
I hear muffled voices in the background as we ride down to the lobby. Carmine tells me his wife grabbed something, and I tell Luigi the change in plans. I’m on edge, but I don’t think Chellie notices. At least, I didn’t until she takes my hand, and hers is freezing. I let go and wrap my arm around her, my free hand reaching across my lap to take hers again.
“Should I call Laura?”
“No. I don’t know what Maks has or will tell her. Right now, we let Uncle Sal and Maks do the talking until we know what’s going on.”
“But—”
“No, Chellie. Knowing them, Maks will tell her everything he can. But I don’t know what’s happening. Don’t put her in a position where she has to lie to you to protect her family. And don’t freak her out if Maks hasn’t spoken to her yet.”
