Morris took notes and asked clarifying questions. Finally closed her tablet.
"Marco DeLuca was arraigned two hours ago via video from his hospital bed. Judge denied bail—flight risk, danger to witnesses, severity of charges. He's being transferred to federal holding pending trial."
Relief loosened something in my chest. "When's the trial?"
"Prosecutors are pushing for a fast track, given the evidence and public attention. Maybe three months. Your testimony will be critical—both of you."
Three months. Valentina was pregnant, dealing with morning sickness, exhaustion, and the stress of reliving everything.
"She'll need accommodations," I said. "Medical breaks. Reduced schedule if there are pregnancy complications—"
"Already noted. Prosecutors understand the situation." Morris hesitated. "There's something else you should know. Not everyone connected to Marco was arrested tonight. Someassociates fled before we could secure them. They've gone underground."
Ice flooded my veins. "How many?"
"At least a dozen that we know of. Lower-level operators—enforcers, money runners. But still dangerous if they decide revenge is worth the risk."
"You think they'll come after us?"
"Honestly? Probably not. Marco's empire is finished. Most of his people will be scrambling to save themselves, cut deals, and disappear. Targeting you would just bring more heat." She paused. "But I can't guarantee your safety. Which is why we're recommending enhanced security during the trial preparation."
Enhanced security. With Valentina pregnant. With twins coming in seven months.
This was supposed to be over. Marco arrested, threat ended, freedom finally ours.
Instead, we were still looking over our shoulders.
"What are you recommending?" I asked.
"Secure safe house, armed detail, restricted movement. Standard witness protection protocols." Morris met my eyes. "I know it's not ideal. But it's temporary. Once the trial concludes and Marco's sentenced, the threat level drops significantly."
Temporary. Everything was always temporary.
But our children would be permanent. Would need stability, safety, and normalcy.
"I'll arrange private security in addition to the FBI detail," I said. "My people. No offense, but I trust them more."
"None taken. Coordinate with me so we're not tripping over each other."
After she left, I returned to Valentina's room. Found her awake, watching me with knowing eyes.
"Bad news?" she asked quietly.
I should lie. Should tell her everything was fine, let her rest, and reduce her stress like the doctor ordered.
But we'd promised honesty. No more secrets.
"Not everyone connected to Marco was arrested," I admitted, settling beside her carefully. "Some fled. FBI thinks they'll lay low, but they're recommending enhanced security as a precaution."
Her hand tightened over her stomach. "For how long?"
"Through the trial. Three months, maybe four."
I watched her process, saw the fear flicker across her face before determination replaced it.
"Okay," she said simply. "Whatever keeps us safe. Keeps them safe."
Them.The babies. Already her priority.
