The name triggered memory. Anna. The friend who'd filed a missing person report when Paola disappeared. The one we'd sent vague texts to about family emergencies.
"You're ready to see her?"
"I think so. It's been long enough now. The story about the wedding went public after Viktor's exposure at the anniversary. She knows most of it already from the news." Paola's expression was complicated. "I owe her an explanation. A real one."
"What are you going to tell her?"
"The truth. As much as I can. That I was forced into the marriage initially. That I chose to stay. That I'm pregnant and happy and safe now.”
"And if she doesn't understand?"
"Then I lose my best friend. But I have to try. She deserves that much."
I pulled her close. "I'll support whatever you decide. If you want me there—"
"No. This is something I need to do alone. Girl talk, explanations, apologies."
"Okay. But if you need backup—"
"I'll call." She kissed me softly. "Thank you. For understanding. For not trying to control this."
"I'm learning. Slowly. That trying to control everything just makes things worse."
"Look at you. Growing as a person."
"Don't tell anyone. I have a reputation to maintain."
She laughed, and the sound filled the penthouse with warmth.
That night, lying in bed with Paola curled against my side, I felt something I hadn't felt in months.
Peace.
Real, genuine peace.
Viktor was gone. Rosa was gone. The immediate threats had been neutralized. My family was safe.
And in seven months, I'd meet my child.
"Cesare?" Paola's voice was sleepy in the darkness.
"Yeah?"
"Thank you. For everything. For protecting me. For choosing us. For being exactly what I needed."
"You did the same for me. Gave me something worth protecting. Worth fighting for."
"We're a good team."
"The best team."
She shifted, her hand finding mine, lacing our fingers together. "I love you. I should say it more. I love you so much.”
"I love you too. Both of you." My other hand found her belly. "My whole world."
"It's strange," Paola murmured. "Knowing they’re there but not being able to feel them yet. Everything is happening on the inside where I can't see it."
"You will soon. Feel them move, I mean."
