Page 68 of The Mafia’s Girlfriend

I didn’t hesitate. With him, I could be strong. “Yes.”

He sighed, leaning down to kiss me. His hands bracketed my sides as he picked me up and spun me slowly. I sealed my commitment, pressing my mouth to his and knowing nothing could ever stand in our way.

“Yes, I will marry you, Luke Sawyer, you crazy, invincible fool.”

He grinned, taking my hand and sliding the ring on my finger. “I can’t wait to make you my wife, you sexy pain in the ass.”

“You just had this waiting?” I asked, admiring the antique ruby set in gold.

“It was my grandmother’s,” he explained.

“Luke? Is that you?” Nina called out.

He drew in a deep breath. “I need to speak with her.”

I nodded, understanding that he was reeling from this surprise. I spun the ring so the ruby aimed into my palm. “One thing at a time. Maybe we can tell her we’re engaged after she tells you why she never told you Marlo is your father.”

He nodded, kissing my brow. “I think that makes the most sense.”

“I should check on Krista still.” She was so sick and groggy since that party. When she woke up, she explained that Marchese men saw her when she was at the store and convinced her to come have “just one drink.”

Famous last words.

“I’ll come over tonight,” Luke said. “After I’m done working. I’ll be late getting back to my shift after talking with my mom.”

If I needed any more proof that Luke would remain the strong, independent man he was when I met him, I had it right there. He just learned that he was the heir to one of the richest men in Miami, and he didn’t consider that easy wealth over keeping his job.

I nodded. “We’ll celebrate, fiancé.”

He kissed my knuckle when he put the ring. “We will, fiancée. I will never give up on you. On us.”

Chapter 25

Luke

Emma left to return to the resort. My mom appreciated the chance to say hi to her, but when I sat down with her, she could tell from my demeanor that I intended to have a sobering, serious conversation.

I didn’t want to have to ask her about my father. On the wake of Emma accepting my proposal, I rather would’ve spent time with her. To look forward to my future, with her. Not looking back at the past.

“Uh-oh.” Mom cringed. “What’s wrong?”

“Marlo Rossini.”

Just saying his name brought a reaction.

She lowered her head and sighed, looking so old and small.

“Marlo Rossini is my father?” I phrased it as a question, even though I already had the answer.

“I’m sorry, Luke.”

“How could you keep this from me? Why?”

She pressed her lips together and shook her head sadly. “I never wanted you to know.”

“You’re ashamed about it?”

Lifting her face, she stared at me with a silent imploration to forgive her. I wasn’t there yet. I was still too shocked to consider forgiveness.