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“Ever since you killed Atwell, you've been different," he says cautiously.
The memory of Atwell's lifeless body flashes before my eyes, a necessary act to protect the woman I love … loved.
I stare out at the city skyline, the bright lights a stark contrast to the darkness swirling within me.
The wind whips my hair around my face, but I barely notice it as I struggle to accept the truth I've been avoiding.
"Anthony, you're not saying anything," Lorenzo prompts, his concern evident in his voice.
I take a deep breath, steeling myself for what I'm about to admit.
"I love her, Lorenzo. I love Diana."
My brother's eyes widen slightly, but he doesn't interrupt, allowing me to continue.
"Every time I'm with her, she makes me feel alive in a way that I never thought possible. She challenges me, pushes me to be better. And when I'm without her... God, it feels like I can't breathe."
"Then why are you doing this?" he asks softly.
"Why force yourself out of a marriage that will only make you happy?"
"Because I don't have a choice!" I snap, my frustration boiling over.
"Our father arranged this marriage, and now, she’s scared of what being a part of the mafia meant. I don’t even know where she is.”
“Is there a slight chance she might love you too?” asks Lorenzo.
“Yes,” I say, with a smile.
“She loves me.”
After all, she told me so herself.
She fought to save my life.
"Anthony, do you really think that's worth throwing away your chance at happiness?" Lorenzo questions, his tone gentle yet firm.
I shake my head, torn between my loyalty to the family and my own desires.
"I don't know, Lorenzo. I just... I don't know."
"Listen," he says, placing a hand on my shoulder.
"You've already proven yourself to our father by taking care of Atwell. You've shown that you're loyal to the family and capable of handling its responsibilities. But sometimes, you need to put yourself first, especially when it comes to matters of the heart."
“But father is already looking for me to be married to someone else…” I say, shaking my head.
“I told him. I told him Diana doesn’t want to be with me. Are you saying I should defy our father and say no to him?" I ask hesitantly, my heart pounding at the thought.
“Yes, Anthony. That’s exactly what I’m saying…Dad. Well, he will take and take and take. It’s on you to stop giving now, brother. Live for yourself. What if you were to talk to Diana and find out how she truly feels? If she loves you too, then perhaps the two of you can find a way to make the marriage work on your own terms. That way, you're still honoring the family's wishes, but also pursuing your happiness."
His advice strikes a chord deep within me, a flicker of hope igniting in my chest.
Maybe there is a way to balance my loyalty to the family with my love for Diana.
It won't be easy, and it may not even be possible, but I owe it to myself – and to her – to try.
“What if her answer remains the same?
