Page 98 of The Don's Soulmate

“The baby will be alright,” I repeat, pulling back. My heart swells with joy at her words. I cradle her face in my hands, my lips claiming hers in a searing kiss. She melts against me, her fingers digging into my shoulders. I devour her mouth, pouring all my love and desire into the kiss.

But there are words to be said, plans to be made. I step back, looking down at her trembling lips. Her eyes well up with tears, and she nods, unable to find words for this nothing less than perfect moment.

I wrap my arms around her again, pulling her close, unable to maintain distance. For a moment, we're enveloped in each other's warmth. Our hearts beat in sync, our love for one another pulsating through every fiber of our beings.

"Whatever it takes," I whisper into her hair, my conviction unwavering. "We'll get through this together. And no one will ever harm you or our child. That's a promise."

A small smile graces her lips, and she reaches out to hold my face, her touch soft and tender. "I know you will, Ettore," she whispers, her voice quivering with emotion. "I trust you with all my heart.My soulmate."

In that instant, I pull her tighter in embrace, our bodies pressed together as we become one. The overwhelming emotions surge between us like a tidal wave, washing away any remnants of fear and uncertainty.

As we hold each other, I can feel the steady rhythm of her heartbeat against my chest, in sync with my own. Soon, there’ll be a third heartbeat between us.

“I can’t believe it,” I laugh, giddy with joy as we part. “We’re having a baby! I’m going to be a father.”

"Diventerai padre." -You’re going to be a father- she whispers, her eyes shining so bright, her skin radiant. At this moment, she’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever laid eyes on. Full of joy and life, not just her own but the one she carries within her.

“Now,” I say, thinking there’s one person worthy of knowing this news. “Who the hell is going to tell Sofia?”

Carlotta laughs and takes my hand in hers. “Together,” she whispers.

“Together,” I mutter back.

We walk into the living room, hand-in-hand, to find Sofia pacing the room.

Sofia turns to us, disturbed by our footsteps, and instantly straightens her form. “And?” she asks, eyes darting between us, her hands making an exaggerated motion for more news.

"Sofia," Carlotta says, her voice trembling with excitement, "I'm pregnant."

Sofia's face lights up as she squeals with joy, rushing forward to envelop Carlotta in a tight hug. "Oh, Carlotta! This is wonderful news! I am so happy for you both!" She turns to me, her eyes twinkling with genuine warmth. "Ettore, take care of them – both of them."

"You bet I will, Sof," I reply, my voice steady with conviction. "I'll protect my family with everything I have."

As Sofia releases Carlotta from her embrace, she places a reassuring hand on my arm. "And I'll be here for you both, whatever you need. Just know you can always count on me."

"We know, Sofia," Carlotta murmurs, her eyes glistening with gratitude. I nod in agreement, feeling an immense appreciation for this fiercely loyal woman.

"Take care of each other," Sofia says softly, her warm smile lingering as she bids us farewell. "I better be going now. I’ll visit in a few weeks’ time when it’s safe, and I can get away without being followed. I’ll bring more supplies and cash, and for now,” she points at a drawer to her right, “I’ve left a couple hundred for emergencies.”

“You’re the best,” I say firmly, looking at her. “Without you, we would never” -

“Hush now,” she insists, waving off my protests. “I better get going.”

Once we're alone again, I pull Carlotta into my arms once again. “Now,” I look down at her gleaming face. “What is our baby craving for dinner?”

“The baby’s craving some tuna,” she smiles. “I can whip us up some sandwiches if you’d like.”

“You’re crazy,” I flick away some hair off her face. “If you think I’m going to let you lift a finger.” My fingers reach for her belly, caressing her through the fabric. “For now, your focus is on carrying our precious cargo.”

Chapter 47

Carlotta

The kitchen smells just as I’ve grown to love it. The past four weeks, I’ve had the strangest craving for of garlic, and so today, Ettore is busy perfecting a marinara sauce with garlic and onions for the pasta we’re making.

His muscular arms stir the sauce expertly while I chop fresh basil, the scent wafting up to my nose. He tosses in more garlic, raises the pan in the air and flips the sauce high before it falls neatly back into place. He gives me a proud grin before sprinkling in more salt.

"Mi amore, you've become quite the chef," I tease, tossing a piece of chopped basil at him playfully.

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