She stops to chat with Elena about the non-profit's latest initiative, their heads bent together in serious conversation before breaking into laughter.
A year ago, Marco would have tensed at her approach.
Roman would have positioned himself between her and Isabella.
Now, she's just family.
"Your wife's program saved three families from eviction last month," Luca says, joining us. "Elena says the community center in Brooklyn is already seeing results."
I nod, pride swelling in my chest. "She's found her calling."
After leaving the FBI, Olivia struggled to find purpose. Law enforcement had defined her for so long.
Then she discovered the Family First Foundation, a non-profit helping vulnerable families navigate the system, providing legal assistance, childcare, and housing support.
Now she's able to use her sense of justice to protect people who fall through the cracks.
"We're expanding to Queens next month," Olivia says, joining us. "The city approved our grant proposal."
What she doesn't say is how many of our resources have quietly flowed into the foundation. La Corona's money building something legitimate, something good.
It's the perfect solution.
Olivia channels her need for justice into real change, while we gain legitimate community ties that strengthen our position.
"The Christmas drive collected over five hundred toys," she adds.
I slip my arm around her waist, marveling at how seamlessly our worlds have merged.
She hasn't compromised her principles.
She's just found a different way to fight for what matters.
And I've found something I never knew I wanted: a partner who challenges me to be better while accepting who I am.
"Merry Christmas," I whisper against her hair.
"Merry Christmas," she replies, leaning into me as our sons sleep peacefully, surrounded by their unlikely family.
“Dinner is ready,” Gabriella announces.
We’re like a herd of elephants as we all make our way to the dining room. Growing up, I remember that only the adults ate together in the dining room.
The kids were in the kitchen. But my generation has changed that.
All of us sit together.
I imagine there might be a day when our kids would rather eat in the kitchen.
Kids often find grown-ups boring.
But for now, we’re all together.
Four dons, joined initially by an oath, but now connected as family.
“To Antonio,” Marco says once the wine is poured.
“To Antonio.” We all raise our glasses to toast.
