Page 81 of Arranged Mafia Marriage

I turn to see Tony, a recent student, with his cherubic face beaming with excitement. “Of course, sweetie. Let’s see it.”

As Tony spins across the floor, his curls bouncing, I smile. He’s so innocent, unaware of the dangerous world he’s been born into. It strengthens my plan to make this recital work.

“That was wonderful, Tony. How would you like to be in a special performance?”

He grins. “Really? Can I wear a costume?”

I laugh. “Absolutely. We’ll find you the perfect outfit.”

As Tony chatters about costume ideas with Isabella, I start planning the invitations. I’ll need to word them carefully, making sure each family feels honored without raising suspicions, and I’ll have to keep it from Kiril and Damiano until the last possible moment.

The next few days are a whirlwind of activity. I coordinate with the instructors, choose music, and design simple but elegant invitations. When everything is ready, I make the most important call.

“O’Malley residence,” answers a gruff voice I don’t recognize.

“Hello, this is Felicity Morris from ‘Starlight Dance Studio.’ May I speak with Mr. O’Malley please?”

There’s a pause, then Sean’s booming voice comes through. “This is Sean O’Malley. What can I do for you, Ms. Morris?”

I swallow hard. “Mr. O’Malley, I’m calling to invite you and your daughter to a charity dance recital we’re hosting next week. Siobhan has been doing wonderfully in her classes, and we’d love for her to perform.”

“A recital, eh? Siobhan’s been talking’ about nothing else but dance lately. When is it?”

I give him the details while blotting damp palms against my pants, alternating which hand is holding the phone. “We’d be honored if you could attend, Mr. O’Malley. It’s for a good cause, supporting local youth programs.”

There’s another pause, and I hold my breath as I hear her excited chatter in the background. Finally, Sean chuckles. “I can’t say no to my little girl. We’ll be there.”

Relief washes over me. “Wonderful. We look forward to seeing you both.”

As I hang up, my hands are shaking. I’ve just invited the head of the Irish mob to an event where he’ll be in the same room as the Russian and Sicilian bosses. If this goes wrong, it could spark a war, but if it works this could be the solution we so desperately need.

37

Felicity

When the day of the recital arrives, and I’m a bundle of nerves. I’ve managed to keep it from Kiril by claiming I needed to work late at the studio all week. As I adjust my simple black dress, I hear familiar footsteps behind me.

“You look beautiful, darling,” Kiril says, wrapping his arms around me. “Are you ready for your big night?”

I turn in his embrace, steeling myself. “Actually, there’s something I need to tell you.”

Kiril’s eyes narrow. “What is it?”

I inhale and then exhale, steeling myself for Kiril’s reaction. “I’ve organized a charity dance recital, and I’ve invited Sean O’Malley and his daughter Siobhan to attend.” Maybe I should have told him sooner, but I was afraid he’d refuse to participate with so many possible witnesses.

Kiril’s eyes widen, then narrow. “You did what?”

“I know it sounds crazy but hear me out. This is our chance to bring everyone together on neutral ground. No weapons, no violence, just a night of dance and goodwill.”

Kiril runs a hand through his hair, his jaw clenching. “Do you realize how dangerous this is? Having all three families in one place?” He scowls. “You were supposed to be arranging a meeting with just him.”

“A meeting he’d quickly get wise to and probably bail on before you and Damiano could get around to suggesting peace. No, it has to be something public, where he feels more secure, and where he can see all the kids, from each of the families, interacting together. Let the kids lead the adults, so to speak.”

He looks unconvinced. “I didn’t expect an audience when we approached him. If things turn ugly…” He sighs. “I’m not sure being so public will work.”

I place my hand on his arm. “That’s exactly why it could work. We’re all too smart to try anything in such a public setting. Plus, it gives us a chance to talk without the pressure of a formal meeting.”

He sighs, shaking his head. “You should have told me sooner.”

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