As he walks away, I take a deep breath, trying to calm my anger. The truth is, Ronan isn't wrong. Vittoria has influenced this decision. But I'll be damned if I let anyone use that against me or her.
As I slide into the back of my waiting car, I pull out my phone to text Vittoria.
Meeting went well. We'll talk when I get home.
Her reply comes almost instantly.
Can't wait to hear about it. Drive safe. xx
Warmth spreads through my chest. Whatever changes Vittoria may have brought to my life, I can't bring myself to regret them. She's become more important to me than I ever thought possible.
"How did it go?" Elisabetta asks the moment I enter the house. She's bouncing on her toes, her sisters right behind her, all watching and waiting.
I glance left and see my sons are also waiting for news.
"Let's go sit down," I say, moving toward the kitchen, where my wife is currently cooking, something I had no idea she could do until recently.
"What happened?" Valentina asks, looking anxious as we all gather around the kitchen island.
I take a deep breath, knowing my children have been hoping for this outcome. "The engagement period has been extended to one year, starting with Lorenzo and Daire's union."
There's a collective gasp from my daughters. Elisabetta's eyes widen in disbelief. "Really? A whole year?"
I nod, allowing a small smile. "Yes. The other families agreed it would be beneficial for all parties. It gives everyone more time to prepare."
Lorenzo leans forward, expression thoughtful. "And my wedding to Daire will be first?"
"Yes," I confirm. "Your engagement will be officially announced in two weeks, with a grand party to follow. The other marriages will be scheduled in the months after yours."
Elisabetta lets out a shaky breath, relief evident on her face. "So... I have more time?"
I nod. "Yes. You have more time. Your wedding won't be for at least another year and a half, possibly longer."
Tears well up in Elisabetta's eyes, and to my surprise, she throws her arms around me in a tight hug. "Thank you, Dad," she whispers.
I return the embrace, feeling a lump form in my throat. I can't remember the last time Elisabetta hugged me like this.
Over her shoulder, I catch Vittoria's eye. She's watching us with a soft smile, happiness and pride shining in her gaze.
As Elisabetta pulls away, wiping her eyes, Sofia speaks up. "Is everyone okay with pushing the dates out?"
"Yes," I say, straightening. "It gives us time to strengthen our alliances. Show that what happened last year won't happen again."
"Indeed," Lorenzo says, jaw tight. "And it gives us more time to get to know our future spouses."
I study him carefully. Out of all my children, he's most like me. "Speaking of which, how do you feel about this, son? About marrying Daire Delaney?"
Lorenzo considers before answering. "I've met Daire a few times at various functions. She seems intelligent and capable. I think we could work well together."
I nod, pleased with his mature response. "Good. Remember, this union is about more than just you two. It's about strengthening our family's position within the Syndicate."
"I understand, Father," Lorenzo says solemnly. "I won't let you down."
Vittoria clears her throat softly, drawing everyone's attention. "I think what's important is that you two get to know each other during this engagement period," she says gently to Lorenzo. "A strong partnership is built on mutual understanding and respect."
I'm surprised by her input, but find myself nodding in agreement. "Vittoria's right. Use this time wisely, Lorenzo."
Lorenzo looks thoughtful, nodding slowly. "I will, Father. I'll make sure everything goes smoothly."
