My father gave me my parents’ number last time I was there. I click call and wait a bit nervously.
“Hello? Carina?” my father’s rich voice says.
“Hi. Can I come see you today? I’ve made a decision… about everything.”
His voice gets cheerier. “Of course. We'd be delighted to see you.”
“Great. Thanks... Father.”
“Oh. You're welcome, my daughter,” he whispers, his voice hoarse.
I wrap up the call and turn to Synn. “Let’s finish eating, then get ready to go. Okay?”
He hugs me tight. “Anything you want, Pazessca.”
I'm snuggled into Synn’s side, who’s been upbeat since I asked him to come along.
I'm excited to tell my parents my decision.
I clutch the pile of papers, signed and ready to go.
Each mile that passes makes my heart happier.
Finally, we pull up to their house. I burst from the car, Synn right on my tail. The front door opens, and my smiling father stands there to greet us.
Handing the papers to Synn, I run to my father, who sweeps me up into a hug.
We follow him inside where my mother waits, beaming at us. I run to her, too, hugging her tight.
Synn hands me back the papers, and we all take a seat.
“You have the floor, Carina,” my father says.
“Okay then. I accept all the things you offered. The bank account, the spots on the board of your three companies, and... the position as heir of the Rossi family.”
Synn jerks next to me, shock on his face.
I look back to my parents, then add, “I want to re-introduce you to Synn, my husband. And I intend to stay his wife.”
Silence stretches for several moments, then a flurry of activity happens.
My mother squeals, rushing over to hug us both. “Congratulations, Caterina. You and Joseph Franco—what a pairing!”
My father shakes Synn's hand. “Treat her right, son.” He looks at me. “Our two families merged this way will be quite powerful indeed. Though I know that's not why you did it.”
Synn makes a noise in his throat, then turns to me with tears swimming in his stormy grays. “You mean that, Pazessca? You want to be my wife… forever?”
I throw my arms loosley around his neck. “Oh, Synn. You’re one of my soulmates. We have a special bond, my Hoodie Boy. Yes, I want to be your wife forever.”
Synn chokes on tears, shaking his head. “I don’t deserve you.”
I playfully swat his arm. “Don’t say that. I love you.”
Looking back to my parents, I ask the burning questions that have been plaguing my brain. “I’m scared of being in charge. I have no idea how to be a mafia leader. Will you please help me?”
My father laughs. “Carina, we would never leave you hanging like that. We're not ancient yet. Of course, we’ll be right by your side as you learn. Anything you need, you will have.”
I clear my throat, tears threatening to spill. “You don’t know how much all of this means to me. Having parents who love me this much… I never thought it was possible. You are both a treasure. I love you so much.”
