Page 61 of Betraying the Mafia Boss

“Are you okay?” I ask as I pull off my clothes. I had a rough day today. My brothers and I, and a few of our trusted men spent the entire day combing the city for a clue of Elio’s whereabout.

I’m fucking exhausted, but that means nothing when Isabella is sitting at her vanity table with her back to me.

She’s either lost in her thoughts and hasn’t noticed my presence, or she’s choosing not to acknowledge I’m back home. If it’s the latter, then she’s upset about something.

Isabella spins her head to me. Her face doesn’t lighten and a smile doesn’t play on her lips. “You didn’t tell me about the bodyguards.”

“I knew you’d refuse. I thought it would be better if Elena and Jane handled that.” I walk to the vanity and curl my arms around her from behind. “Is that why you’re upset?”

She peers at me through the mirror. “Is there anything else you’re not telling me?”

The word struggles to leave my lips, but I manage to force it out. “No.” I can’t bring myself to tell her that I’ll be initiated into the Cosa Nostra tonight. That I’ll shed blood.

I know she’s already aware of how dark our world can be and the things I need to do to protect us from Elio. Still, I can’t bring myself to tell her.

“Jane told me I’ll go through some training. I’ll learn how to fight and use a gun so I can protect myself if need be.”

That one totally skipped my mind. “She’s right.”

Isabella breaks away from my grip and twists to face me. She’s looking at me through her thick lashes. “She also said Dominic will be my Capo since I’m now your partner.”

“That’s right, too.” I get down on one knee in front of her and place my hand on her thigh. “Do you have a problem with that?”

Her gaze dips to my hand on her leg. “Your brother terrifies me. I think he hates me. How is he supposed to be my Capo when he does?”

“Don’t say that, amore.” I take her hand in mine and squeeze it softly. “Dominic doesn’t hate you. You’re part of the family now and he’ll give his life for you. Trust me.”

She sniffles, holding back tears. “That’s hard to believe.”

I brush my thumb gently over Isabella's knuckles, trying to offer what little comfort I can. “I know it's hard to trust, especially given everything that's happened,” I say softly, my voice tinged with regret. “But Dominic...he may seem intimidating, but he's a good man at heart. He's always had the family's best interests at heart, and now that includes you.”

Isabella's eyes flicker with uncertainty as she gazes at me, searching for reassurance. “But what if I'm not good enough for him? What if I can't live up to his expectations?”

I reach up to brush a stray strand of hair from her face, making sure to keep my touch gentle. “You don't have to be perfect, Isabella. Dominic understands the world we live in, and he knows each of us has our strengths and weaknesses. He'll guide you, protect you, and help, even if I’m not here. That’s how important family is to him.”

Her lips tremble as she struggles to hold back her emotions, and my heart aches at the sight. “I just don't want to disappoint anyone,” she murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just want to be with you and our baby.”

Leaning in closer, I press a soft kiss to her forehead, hoping she can feel all the love and support I feel for her in that simple gesture. “You could never disappoint me or my brothers, Isabella,” I whisper, my words sincere. “You're strong, resilient, and more capable than you realize. And no matter what challenges lie ahead, I'll be right here by your side, every step of the way.”

Tears gather in her eyes, shimmering with emotion as she meets my gaze. “Thank you, Vincent,” she says, her voice breaking. “I needed to hear that.”

“I’m glad I made you feel better.” I run my fingers through her hair. “I’ll go take a quick shower and then we can have dinner together. What do you say?”

“Alright.”

***

It’s almost eleven p.m.

Isabella is asleep when I roll out of bed and dress in a black three-piece suit. It’s my first time wearing black since I left the military. Today, I become a new man. One who Isabella probably won’t be very proud of, but at least I will be able to protect my family—Isabella and our baby.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, I watch Isabella sleep for a few minutes. She’s so serene when she sleeps. I could stay like this and watch her forever. Angling towards her, I kiss the top of her head before I stand and leave the room.

Dominic and Marcus are already in the foyer when I go downstairs. They are also dressed in black from head to toe. Dominic is wearing his signet ring and Marcus’s fingers are clad with jewelries as well.

“You ready?” Dominic asks as I climb down the stairs.

“More ready than I’ve ever been.”

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