It had been like that seven years ago as well.
Regret fills me that I didn’t try harder to bring her with me to Chicago. But my life was in turmoil then.
Threatened by my own family. At the time, I had no prospects to support us.
Oh, sure, I had the skills to build something, but alone, I had no one else to support or worry about.
Then there was the worry that I’d put a target on her back by reaching out to her.
No, it was safer for her that I cut all contact.
Now that I know what we had never died, despite what she tries to tell me.
Now that I have a son, everything has changed except the fact that I’m still ostracized by my family.
My life isn’t here, never will be here again.
I have my own business that runs well, but I can’t be gone forever. Katerina is right that I’ll have to leave.
Even without my own business, Alessandro will force me out again. The tension between us grows daily.
So, can I bring Katerina and Enzo into my world? I suspect Katerina would fight the idea.
She’s built a life here.
Her brother is here.
Even if she wanted to come with me, the Morozova Bratva might not let her go.
I can see the inevitable collision course. Something will have to give. Either I return to Chicago alone, or I fight for my place here. Neither option gives me what I truly want, Katerina and Enzo with me, safe.
Katerina looks up suddenly, catching me watching. She doesn't smile, doesn't wave.
She’s the biggest hurdle I need to overcome to have what I want. But I’m beginning to think nothing I do will change her mind about me.
She won’t allow herself to love and trust me.
And if that’s the case, what future could possibly exist for us?
I shake those thoughts away to make space for dealing with Alessandro. I find him in our father's office, sitting behind the massive desk.
I have to admit, he’s settled into his power.
The room doesn’t feel like Father’s anymore. Alessandro owns the space and the role of Don.
"Shut the door." His voice is commanding, and I shake off the urge to remind him that he’s not the boss of me.
I close it but remain standing.
Alessandro's eyes track me like I'm a bomb about to detonate. "Tell me why you're really here. The truth this time."
"I told you. I got a letter?—"
"Bullshit." He cuts me off. "Who the fuck sends letters anymore?”
I shrug. “People who don’t want a digital trail. If you want to see it, I’ll show?—”
“I don’t need to see your fucking letter.” He continues to stare at me like I’m an enigma. “You’ve been gone seven years. Seven years to resent the family and one letter brings you back? I don’t buy it. No, you’re here for something else.”
