Page 51 of The Mafia’s Fiancee

She looked down, remorseful yet not. “You, of all people, should understand the better option of staying out of the mafia life.”

I huffed a quiet breath. “No. Actually, I can’t.” I’d dreamed of not being my father’s daughter, of not being a mafia princess. Many times, I fantasized about having a normal life. But that wasn’t something I could ever control.

“It’s not an easier option. Your lies are catching up to Luke now.”

We quieted when others walked by again. In the meantime, I took the slim knife out of my pocket—something Jimmy suggested I keep on hand—and cut at the zip-ties binding Nina’s hands behind her back.

“Why are you here?” she asked, seeming to trust me because I acted to free her.

“To help save...” I sighed, knowing that Nina wouldn’t be able to just run out of here.

Luke and Jimmy were supposed to be saving Nina. I’d taken it upon myself to save Krista. But now, it seemed that the plans would change.

“To help Luke. Which means getting you out of here.”

“Will you?” she asked, tears in her eyes.

“Yes.” Justin will have to help Krista.

I had to get his mother out of here. If I didn’t... I’d never forgive myself. He’d never forgive me either.

With more danger and more complications coming at us from every corner, I had to consider the real possibility that Luke and I might not make it to marry and be a family. Getting out of this house would be a suicide mission in and of itself, immediately made more challenging with needing to get Nina out with me now.

If Luke and I couldn’t overcome the constant obstacles we faced, then I at least wanted him to have some family, someone who’d love him.

“Just stay quiet, and stick with me,” I told her.

She tried to stand, but fell toward the chair. “I’m sorry. I’m just so scared. My body doesn’t move as well as it used to...”

I shook my head, sighing that she felt like she had to apologize for her health.

If I had to, I’d carry her out.

One way or another, I had to get moving. I slipped my shoulder under her arm and guided her to lean on me.

“Let’s go.”