I do my best to pull myself together.
I fold the paper carefully, tucking it into my jacket pocket.
I call for the check and pay it and then rise to leave.
“You’re not gonna eat that?” Carl nods toward my food.
“No It’s all yours.” I leave my number. “Call me if you think of anything else.” I toss him a few one-hundred dollar bills.
“Sure will.” He stuffs the money in his pocket.
Outside in the parking lot, I slide into my car, hands shaking too badly to put the key in the ignition.
“Fuck!” I slam my hand on the steering wheel.
It’s one thing to think my father might have kept the truth about Aldo from me, but Elena hiding the kids?
I feel sick.
Everything I thought I knew about her is now in question.
It makes sense now why she doesn’t want me going back in time. Why she’s pushing me away.
Had she wanted me out of the picture the whole time?
If Umberto wanted her with me, why didn’t she come?
I’m sure my father would have helped her. Or maybe Aldo held her prisoner of sorts and she couldn’t come.
But Aldo has been dead for years and she’s never said a word. In fact, she’s gone out of her way to treat me like I have a contagious disease.
The rage burns hot. Her betrayal cuts deep. Rocco, Elio, Adalina. My blood. My legacy.
I want nothing more than to drive to Elena’s and demand answers. But I’m pissed and confused.
So instead, I drive to Gabriella's home. She’ll be able to help me sort this out and figure out my rights.
Snow has started falling by the time I pull up to Gabriella's. I’m let into the house and led to a family room.
Marco is lying on the floor with Sabina.
Admittedly, it’s a vision I never in a million years thought I’d see him do.
But more than that, my heart cries out that I didn’t get to lie on the floor with my babies.
Gabriella is wrapping presents. She looks up and her smile falters. "Luca? What's wrong?"
"I need to talk to you. It's important."
She studies my face for a moment before nodding. "Is it Dad?”
I feel bad for worrying her. “No.”
She lets out a relieved breath. “Let’s go to the kitchen. I’ll get you a drink.”
“Anything you need me for?” Marco asks.
“No. Just brother-sister stuff.”
