Page 75 of Recaptured by the Crime Lord

“Starting a family.”

Lyla looked down at her protruding belly covered by a thin sarong. “We’re going to name her Nora.”

“I know. I’m honored.”

Lyla closed her eyes as a shaft of pain and loss ripped through her. “I wish you were here.”

“I am.”

Lyla closed her eyes and soaked in his presence. He seemed so real and solid, but even in sleep, she knew the truth.

“I’m happy that you and Gavin finally got your act together.”

She let out a choked laugh. “It’s an ongoing battle.”

“He needs you, Lyla. Don’t give up on him.”

“I won’t,” she vowed.

“That’s my girl.”

She absorbed the feel of him and his familiar musky scent now mixed with sunblock and ocean. She saw his gold cane in the sand and smiled.

“I knew you were with me.”

She tilted her face up. “What?”

“I felt you grab my hand before I died.”

Her breath seized. She dragged herself across the floor with a knife protruding from her chest to be near him as they died. Images from that day began to intrude on the dream. The sound of the waves began to fade. She clutched him desperately.

“Not yet, not yet,” she chanted. “I need more time.”

“You’re so brave, so strong.” Manny’s voice was a soothing balm to her soul. “No other woman would be able to handle Gavin and the trials you’ve been through.”

“Please don’t go,” she whispered.

“I’m always with you.”

She shook her head as tears poured down her cheeks. “It’s not fair.”

He cupped her chin. “I’m good, baby girl.”

“I’m not.” She grasped handfuls of his shirt. “I think about you everyday. I miss you so much.”

“You need to stay strong. There are more trials to come.”

“What?”

“He’s still out there, Lyla. He’ll come for you and the baby. He won’t stop. Keep Nora safe.”

“What are you talking about?”

The warmth from the sun faded and the sky began to darken. Over Manny’s shoulder, she saw movement. A man in a black suit and mask stood on the beach. Lyla’s heart leapt into her throat. She clutched at Manny even as the monster reached into his jacket and pulled out a gun.

“Manny!”

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