Introducing Vittoria to my family went much better than I expected.
In the past, Uncle Maurizio mentioned several times it would be to our benefit if I married a woman from a family with business ties to the Cosa Nostra. Someone like Valentina Toscano.
Aunt Gloria took Vittoria to the kitchen to show her the recipe collection she’s so proud of, and I’m expecting some kind of blow-back now that we’re alone.
Uncle Maurizio glances over the backyard, then lets out a sigh and murmurs, “You’ve always had an eye for beauty.”
A grin tugs at the corner of my mouth. “Right? Vittoria is exquisite.” When my uncle’s gaze meets mine, I say, “I love her.”
It’s the first time I’m saying the words out loud. I know Vittoria is taking longer to develop the same feelings for me, but I feel I’ve made significant progress with her in the past few weeks. It’s only a matter of time before my wife will love me the same way I love her.
His eyebrow lifts. “When did you marry the girl?”
“It’s been three weeks.”
Another heavy breath escapes him. “I understand you’re taken with her, but don’t you think it’s a little too soon to talk about love, Angelo?”
I shake my head. “No.”
I don’t elaborate because there’s nothing to explain. I love my little temptress. End of story.
Needing to make sure everything is okay between us, I say, “I know you were hoping I’d marry Valentina, but she’s bat-shit crazy. Vittoria is perfect, and she’s an amazing wife. I want you to be happy for me.”
My uncle nods as his eyes flit over my face. “I understand.” He’s quiet for a moment, then he nods and changes the subject. “Do you want me to accompany you to the meetings?”
I’m relieved because he’s not as upset as I thought he’d be. I knew if he met Vittoria, he’d see she’s the right woman for me.
“It’s not necessary,” I reply. “I know how you despise politics.”
A disgruntled expression tightens his features. “Sangrioti is a shark.”
“Unfortunately, he’s the Minister of Justice, and we need him in our pocket.”
“I know,” Uncle Maurizio sighs. “I’m getting too old for this shit.”
I’ve wanted to address the subject for a while, and feeling now’s the right time, I say, “You’ve done a lot for the family. Don’t you think it’s time you retire and enjoy your time with Zia Gloria?”
His eyes narrow on me. “And who do you suggest to run things here in Sicily?”
“Eddie. He’s been with us for years and has proven he’s ready to take on more responsibility.”
Uncle Maurizio and Eddie’s father were good friends, and I’m hoping the two families’ shared history helps to soften my uncle’s heart.
After a few seconds, Uncle Maurizio nods. “Send Eddie to me. I’ll train him, and once I’m sure he’s ready, I’ll retire completely from the business.”
My eyes narrow because everything is just too easy. My uncle is a stubborn man by nature.
He notices my sharp gaze and lets out a chuckle. “I’m seventy-four, Angelo. I’m tired.”
I take in the deep lines on his face and murmur, “You deserve to live your golden years out in peace. I want you to be happy.”
Looking visibly touched by my words, he stares at me for a long while. “You’re like a son to me, Angelo.”
I nod and clear my throat because this is getting a little too emotional for my liking.
“I want you to be happy as well,” Uncle Maurizio murmurs.
The corner of my mouth lifts. “I am. You don’t have to worry about me.”
Big Ricky comes around the side of the house, and when he’s close enough, he says, “Sorry to interrupt, boss. I spoke with Bruno, and he said he’d escort you to the meeting while I stay with Tori.”
Even though the guards protect my uncle and aunt, they’re employed by the Cosa Nostra, which means they all report to me.
Uncle Maurizio’s eyebrows lift. “Why is Big Ricky staying with Tori?”
“Because Tiny isn’t here,” I explain.
“Still…” He shakes his head. “She’s safe here with us.” He waves a hand at Big Ricky. “Take him and Bruno. I don’t trust Sangriori as far as I can throw the fucker.” When he sees the hesitation on my face, he adds, “We have half an army, Angelo. The girl will probably be in the kitchen with Gloria for the rest of the day.”
Fuck, I feel so overprotective of Vittoria, but leaving Big Ricky behind will be a stupid move. I have more enemies in Sicily than in Long Island. Besides, Vittoria is with my family, and Uncle Maurizio’s right, there’s half an army guarding them.
“Fine,” I mutter. I glance at Big Ricky. “Get the car ready. We’re leaving in ten minutes.”
“Yes, boss.”
I get up from the comfortable chair, then say, “I’m going to check on Vittoria before I head out.”
Uncle Maurizio climbs to his feet with a groan, and it makes me realize how old he’s gotten.
It’s time he retires. As soon as I’m back in Long Island, I’ll send Eddie to take over.
We head into the house, and when I hear Vittoria’s voice from the kitchen, a smile spreads over my face.
“So you grill the eggplant in butter instead of olive oil?”
“Yes. It makes a huge difference,” Aunt Gloria answers.
Stepping into the kitchen, it warms my heart to see Vittoria and Aunt Gloria sitting by the table. There are scraps of papers, journals, and cooking books spread out before them.
My wife looks like she’s in seventh heaven.
I lean over her and press a kiss to her forehead. “I have to go to the meeting.”
She quickly gets up from the chair, wraps her arms around my neck, and whispers, “Be careful.”
Holding Vittoria tightly, I press my face into her hair and take a deep breath of her floral scent.
When I pull back, I lock eyes with her. “I’m taking Big Ricky with me. Are you okay with that?”
She quickly nods. “Of course. I’ll feel better knowing he’s with you.”
My eyes flick to my uncle and aunt, and it has Aunt Gloria saying, “Tori will be fine with us. We’re going to prepare a feast for dinner.”
Hearing Aunt Gloria call Vittoria by her nickname sets me at ease.
Lowering my head, I press a tender kiss to my little temptress’ mouth before letting go of her.
“I should only be gone for two hours.”
Vittoria nods, and I drink in the sight of the soft smile playing around her lips.
God, I’m so fucking lucky to have this beautiful creature as my wife.
I lift my hand and brush my fingers over her cheek before stepping around her and walking out of the kitchen.
“Let me show you to your bedroom so you can freshen up before we start cooking,” I hear Aunt Gloria say.
As I reach the front door, Uncle Maurizio pats me on the back. “Good luck with the meeting. Call me if you need backup.”
“I’ll be fine,” I mutter.
I join Big Ricky and Bruno, and soon, we’re driving away from the villa where I spent most of my childhood.
