"We've noticed Dad seems different with you," Sofia says slowly. "Happier, maybe. More relaxed."
Warmth spreads through my chest at her words. "I'm glad to hear that."
Valentina bites her lip, looking uncertain. "It's just... we miss our mom. And when Dad married you, it felt like..."
"Like he was trying to replace her," I finish gently. "I understand. But I want you all to know, I'm not here to take your mother's place. I could never do that, and I wouldn't want to. Your mother will always be part of your lives. She loved you all dearly and shaped three amazing daughters. I'm very lucky I get to be part of your lives."
Elisabetta's eyes well up with tears at my words. "Thank you for saying that," she whispers. "I think... I think Mom would have liked you."
Her words hit me hard, and I feel my own eyes getting misty. "That means so much to me, Elisabetta. Thank you."
There's emotional silence before Sofia speaks up. "So, um, what's it like? Being married to Dad?"
I can't help but chuckle at her curious tone. "Well, it's certainly never boring," I say with a smile. "Your father is a complex man. He can be stern and intimidating in business, but he's also capable of great kindness and gentleness."
Valentina leans forward, looking intrigued. "Really? Dad, gentle?"
I nod, thinking back on the tender moments Cesare and I have shared. "He's been very patient with me, especially after what happened with my father. He's shown me a side I don't think many people get to see."
"Wow," Sofia breathes. "I mean, we know Dad loves us, but he's always been so... reserved. He's different with you."
Elisabetta nods. "We know that in our world, marriages are arranged. We've always known our parents' marriage wasn't filled with love. Our father cared for our mother, but not like he does with you."
"Does that upset you?" I ask, knowing if the tables were turned, I'd be sad my father treated my mother differently.
The girls shake their heads. "Not really," Elisabetta responds. "I'm sad our mother didn't get the chance to feel love, but I'm glad our father has someone who cares about him."
"I do care for your father very much," I say carefully. "Our relationship has grown into something I never expected."
"Do you love him?" Valentina asks bluntly.
I pause, considering her question. Do I love Cesare? The warmth I feel when I'm with him, the sense of safety and belonging, the way my heart races when he touches me... Is that love?
"I... I think I might," I admit softly. "It's all still new, and complicated. But yes, I think I'm falling in love with him."
The girls exchange surprised looks.
"Wow," Sofia says. "I never thought I'd hear anyone say that about Dad."
I smile, feeling embarrassed. "Your father is a good man. He's not perfect, but he tries. And he loves all of you very much."
Elisabetta nods, expression thoughtful. "I think... I think we're starting to see that more clearly now. Because of you."
Her words warm my heart. "I'm glad," I say sincerely. "All I want is for this family to be happy."
We continue talking through lunch, conversation flowing more easily now. The girls tell me stories about their childhood, about their mother. I share some of my own experiences, careful to avoid the darker parts thanks to my father.
As we're finishing up, Valentina suddenly says, "You know, we've been pretty awful to you. And you've been nothing but kind. I'm... I'm sorry, Vittoria. We should have given you a chance from the beginning."
Sofia and Elisabetta nod in agreement.
"Thank you," I say, feeling emotional. "I understand why you were hesitant at first. I'm just glad we're getting to know each other now."
As we say our goodbyes, each of the girls hugs me. It's a small gesture, but it feels like a huge step forward.
After they leave, I sit back, feeling overwhelmed but happy. For the first time since I married Cesare, I feel like I truly belong in this family. Like I have a real place here, not just as Cesare's wife, but as someone who cares for and is cared for by his children.
I take out my phone and send a quick text to Cesare.
