She breathes in, listening to me for once.
“Breathe out.”
She does.
“Relax, Bianca.Your family and my family will get along just fine.”
“I don’t know, Vinnie.This is a big step.”
“It’s a big step for both of us, but I have a secret weapon.”
“You can’t use your magical cock on everyone.”She laughs.
“While that thought is both disturbing and funny, that’s not what I’m talking about.”
“How are you going to win them over?”
She always doubts me.I don’t mind being underestimated.I have been my entire life.But the one thing I know is how to charm just about anyone.A trait I learned from watching my father.
“I got everyone season tickets to the home games this season.”
“Even my family?”
I nod.“Everyone.I’ll have my very own cheering section.”
“That’ll win the guys over, but my mom won’t be too impressed.”
She’s right.I didn’t think of that.My mom will love it because she’s my mom, but Bianca’s mother is a tougher nut to crack.
“I’ll figure something out.”
“I’m sure you will.”She smirks.“You always seem to have your ways.”
Bianca jumps as the doorbell chimes.“They’re here,” she says with dread in her voice.
“Just stand here and concentrate on breathing.I’ll get the door.”
I stalk toward the doorway, giving myself a little pep talk because I know this isn’t going to be a walk in the park.
Her father’s face is the first I see when I open the door.He’s smiling and happy, but I’ve never seen another side of him.“Son,” he says, and I like the way that word sounds coming out of his mouth.“It’s nice to see you again.”
“Mr.Hernandez.”I hold out my hand and shake his waiting hand.
Mrs.Hernandez steps to the side, showing her beautiful face.“Vincent,” she says, but this lady is in no way sold on me.
“Mrs.Hernandez, it’s lovely to see you again.”I take her hand and kiss the back, turning on the charm, but careful not to overdo it either.
“Likewise,” she replies.
“Stop being so uptight, Luciana,” Abuela says from the back.“Get the stick out of your ass and cut the man some slack.”
I can’t hold in my laughter at Abuela’s words, but I glance downward so no one can see.Abuela pushes past her daughter and son-in-law and comes to stand in front of me.
“Let me see that face,” she says, holding her hands in the air, waiting for me.
I give her my face, because I’d never argue with Abuela.“More handsome in the light,” she says softly and brushes her thumbs over my cheeks.“There’s so much happiness in your future.”
“Abuela.”Bianca grabs her grandmother and wraps her in a tight embrace.“I’m so happy you made it.”
