Page 51 of The Bratty Heir

As they drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's arms, Rocco felt a profound sense of peace. Whatever challenges tomorrow might bring, they would face them together. Two halves of a whole, bound by love and passion and an unbreakable bond.

The next morning dawned bright and clear, sunlight streaming through the windows as Rocco stirred. He blinked awake, momentarily disoriented by the unfamiliar surroundings. Then he remembered—they weren't in the penthouse. This was their new home, the mansion they'd spent the past year renovating.

Victor was already up, puttering around the spacious kitchen. The sight of the fearsome mafia enforcer in sleep pants and a faded t-shirt, humming as he flipped pancakes, never failed to make Rocco's heart swell.

"Morning, sleeping beauty," Victor called, shooting Rocco a fond smile. "Thought you were going to sleep the day away."

Rocco yawned, padding over to wrap his arms around Victor's waist. "Mm, your fault. You wore me out last night."

Victor chuckled, turning to press a kiss to Rocco's forehead. "No complaints here, baby. Now sit, eat. We've got a busy day ahead."

As they ate breakfast on the sun-drenched patio, Rocco marveled at how domestic it all felt. Two years ago, he never would have imagined this—a life of quiet mornings and shared laughter, the weight of the family business balanced by the warmth of true partnership.

The Rossetti empire had undergone a massive transformation under their joint leadership. With Victor's strategic mind and Rocco's innovative thinking, they'd steered the family towards more legitimate enterprises. Tech startups, clean energy initiatives, urban renewal projects—the Rossetti name was becoming associated with progress rather than crime.

Of course, they hadn't gone entirely straight. There were still dark corners of the business, necessary evils to maintain their power and protect what was theirs. But the balance had shifted, and Rocco found himself proud of the legacy they were building.

"Earth to Rocco," Victor's voice broke through his musings. "Where'd you go, baby boy?"

Rocco blinked, focusing on Victor's concerned face. "Sorry, just got lost in thought. Nervous about tonight, I guess."

Victor reached across the table, taking Rocco's hand in his. "Hey, no need to be nervous. It's just dinner with your parents. We've done this before."

Rocco nodded, but the butterfly feeling in his stomach intensified. Because this wasn't just any dinner. Tonight, they were going to announce their engagement.

The ring box felt heavy in Rocco's pocket as they made their way to his parents' estate that evening. Victor had proposed a week ago, on a moonlit walk through Central Park. It had been simple, intimate, and perfect. Rocco's "yes" had been immediate and fervent.

Now came the harder part—telling the family.

Giovanni and Lucia Rossetti were waiting for them in the formal dining room, the table set with the good china. Rocco's mother enveloped him in a perfumed hug, while his father shook Victor's hand with gruff affection.

"So," Giovanni said as they settled into their seats, "to what do we owe the pleasure of this impromptu family dinner?"

Rocco shared a look with Victor, drawing strength from the love and support he saw there. "Actually, Dad, Mom... we have some news."

He reached for Victor's hand, squeezing it tightly as he continued. "Victor and I... we're engaged."

A beat of silence followed the announcement. Rocco held his breath, searching his parents' faces for any sign of disapproval. To his immense relief, Lucia's face broke into a radiant smile.

"Oh, my darlings!" she exclaimed, rising to embrace them both. "I'm so happy for you!"

Giovanni's reaction was more reserved, but Rocco could see the pride in his eyes as he stood to shake Victor's hand. "Welcome to the family, son," he said gruffly. "Officially, that is."

The rest of the evening passed in a blur of congratulations and wedding planning discussions. By the time they left, Rocco felt light enough to float away, buoyed by the warmth of family acceptance.

As Victor drove them home, Rocco couldn't stop smiling. He placed a hand on Victor's thigh, relishing the solid warmth beneath his palm. "Thank you," he said softly.

Victor glanced over, eyebrow raised. "For what, baby?"

"For everything," Rocco replied, voice thick with emotion. "For loving me, for standing by me, for helping me become the man I am today."

Victor's hand covered Rocco's, squeezing gently. "No thanks needed, little one. Loving you is as natural as breathing."

When they arrived home, Victor surprised Rocco by scooping him up bridal-style as soon as they were through the door. Rocco yelped, wrapping his arms around Victor's neck.

"What are you doing, you caveman?" he laughed as Victor carried him towards the bedroom.

Victor's grin was wicked. "Practicing for the wedding night."

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