I feel the weight of the world pressing down on me. The family meeting could end with Luca being handed over to the Bratva or his exile again, this time for good.
“Let’s get you dressed,” I say, escorting Enzo back to his room and away from the conflict.
I cradle Enzo in my lap as we sit on his bed, needing to feel his warm, alive body.
"I don't want to go to school today," Enzo whispers, clutching me, his eyes filled with fear.
"You don't have to, sweetheart." I brush my fingers through his dark hair, my heart breaking for him.
No child should have to experience what he did yesterday. "You can stay home with me."
Relief washes over his face. "Promise you won't leave?"
"I promise." I pull him closer. “I'll be right here all day."
"What about Daddy?" Enzo asks, his voice small. "Will he stay too?"
I hesitate. He has to go to the meeting, and after that… I may never see him again. “Your dad has important things to take care of first, but I know he wants to be with you."
Enzo nods solemnly. "To keep us safe?"
"Yes. To keep us safe."
We sit in comfortable silence for long moments.
"Can we build a fort?" Enzo asks suddenly.
I smile, grateful for his resilience. "The biggest fort ever."
A soft knock at the door draws our attention. Luca stands in the doorway, his expression not as menacing as it was against his brother.
"How are you doing, buddy?" he asks, crossing to sit on the edge of the bed.
Enzo gives a half-hearted shrug. "Better now. I don’t have to go to school."
Luca smiles, reaching out to ruffle Enzo's hair. “Enjoy the day off. You deserve it.” He glanced up at me. “I need to go meet with the family.”
"I should be at that meeting," I say. “It’s part of my job?—”
“Right now, your job is to be with Enzo." His eyes meet mine, steady and sure. "I'll handle Alessandro and the others."
I nod because I agree. “What if they decide to?—”
"Whatever they decide, I'll come back and let you know. I promise."
"I'll hold you to that," I say, doubt creeping in again. He left once before without a word. It’s possible he’ll be forced out and not have a chance to say goodbye.
He leans forward, pressing his lips to my forehead. "Nothing could keep me away."
I give him a nod. With a final rueful smile, he leaves Enzo’s room.
I don't know what the future holds, but it doesn’t feel hopeful.
Not like it did when I woke up in Luca's arms this morning.
For the second time in my life, I fear my world is about to shatter.
17
