But this time feels different.
This time, Luca knows about Enzo.
This time, we've reconnected in ways that go beyond physical attraction. Or at least, I thought we had.
"Idiot," I mutter to myself, blinking back tears.
I should march right back to that room and tell him exactly what I think of his plans. I should demand answers about why he's leaving without even discussing taking us with him. I should tell him about the baby and watch his face when he realizes what he's walking away from.
I rehearse all the things I want to say to him. The accusations. The questions. The hurt.
How dare you make me fall for you again? How dare you bond with Enzo only to abandon him? How dare you touch me, hold me, make me believe we had a future, when you were planning your escape the whole time?
But would it make a difference? Would it change anything?
The last time I thought Luca loved me, he disappeared without a word. Yes, he was forced out, but he could have made contact with me some way, somehow, and yet he didn’t.
What guarantee do I have that he wouldn't do the same again, even knowing about the new baby? He made his choice clear. Chicago, his empire, his freedom. Not us.
Maybe it's better this way.
A clean break before I tell him about the baby.
Before Enzo gets even more attached.
Who am I kidding? It's already too late for that.
I flop back on the bed. I need to think clearly.
I need a plan that doesn't involve Luca Dante, because clearly, he has plans that don't involve me.
33
LUCA
I drift in and out of consciousness. Every time I wake, I expect to see Katerina's face, to feel her hand in mine. But she’s never there.
Valentina stops by, bringing me updates about the business. Alessandro visits to discuss the future.
Even Adriano makes brief appearances.
But not Katerina.
Not the one person I need to see most.
My mind cycles through every possibility.
Is she hurt? Did the Bratva get to her again?
Is Enzo okay?
But Valentina assures me they're both fine, just giving me space to heal.
But I don’t buy it.
More likely, she’s decided just like the rest of my family had. I’m too risky to be around.
By the third day of her absence, I can't take it anymore.
