Page 76 of Arranged Mafia Marriage

Felicity

Istep out of the car, my hand instinctively moving to my growing belly. The ultrasound photos feel like a precious treasure in my purse. I inhale deeply and brace myself for another encounter with Santino.

The private medical facility is large and spacious, but it’s still clear it’s a place where people often go to die. Or maybe I’m just being morbid as I step inside. I nod at the men in dark suits standing near the facility’s security guards as I enter with Viktor shadowing me. His presence is a constant in this new life.

“Mrs. Pimaslov,” one of them greets me, giving me a once-over and Viktor a more thorough scrutinization before gesturing for me to proceed. These men must be on my father’s payroll and provide his personal security. “Mr. DeLucci is expecting you.”

I follow him down the sterile hallway, the smell of antiseptic filling my nostrils. My heart races as we approach Santino’s room. Despite our recent tentative steps toward reconciliation,there’s still a part of me that struggles with his presence in my life.

The guard opens the door, and I step inside. Santino is propped up in bed, looking better than I remember. He smiles when he sees me. “Felicity,” he says, his voice raspy but warm. “I didn’t know you were coming. Come, sit.”

I approach the bed, perching on the edge of the chair beside him. “How are you feeling?”

He waves his hand dismissively. “Better now that you’re here. How’s my grandbaby?”

I smile, reaching into my purse. “Actually, that’s why I’m here.” I pull out the ultrasound photos, handing them to him. “It’s a girl. The ultrasound tech said she was very cooperative for sixteen weeks, and he’s one hundred percent sure.”

Santino’s hands shake slightly as he takes the photos, his eyes misting over as he studies them. “A little girl,” he whispers. “She’s beautiful.”

“She’s the size of an avocado,” I say with tenderness in my voice. “The doctor says she’s healthy and strong.”

Santino looks up at me, and his lips tremble slightly. “Just like her mother.”

There’s a lump form in my throat, and I’m unsure how to respond. He seems to sense my discomfort and changes the subject.

“How are you handling everything?” he asks, his tone serious. “This life isn’t easy.”

“People keep saying that.” I sink back into the chair, which is surprisingly plush and comfortable. Another perk of this place. “It’s...overwhelming. Sometimes I feel like I’m drowning in it all.”

Santino nods, his expression understanding. “I know the feeling. When I first took over the family business, I thought I’d lose myself in it.”

“How did you manage?” I ask, genuinely curious.

He’s quiet for a moment. “I learned to compartmentalize. To keep my family life separate from the business.”

“But how? It seems impossible.”

Santino shifts in his bed, wincing slightly. “It’s not easy, but it’s necessary. When I was with your mother, or with Damiano when he was younger, even for those brief moments... I made sure to be present. To leave the business at the door.”

“But doesn’t it follow you everywhere?” I ask, thinking of the constant security, the whispered conversations, and the ever-present threats.

He nods slowly. “It does, but you have to create boundaries. Sacred spaces, where the business doesn’t intrude.”

I think of the dance studio, the one place where I still feel like myself. “I think I understand.”

“Good,” says Santino, reaching out to pat my hand. “And remember, Felicity, you have something I never did.”

“What’s that?”

“A partner who understands this life. I never married Damiano’s mother, and Susan refused to marry me. I don’t think I evergot over her…” He trails off with a distant look before blinking and focusing on me again. “Kiril is a good man. He’ll help you navigate this world.”

I nod, thinking of Kiril’s strength and support. “He does make it easier.”

He looks serious now. “But never forget who you are, Felicity. Don’t let this life change the core of who you are.”

“How do I do that?”

He squeezes my hand. “By remembering what’s truly important. Family, love, and the innocent life growing inside you. Let those be your anchors.”

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