Page 13 of Fix You

After we were buzzed inside, the gates opened, and the SUV rolled through. I knew only the basics about my future father-in-law. Edoardo Caruso was in his early fifties. As with most Sicilian capo’s, he’d been married to the same wife for twenty years, and they had five children. Andrea was their oldest followed by three sons and another daughter.

Like my father, he had a legitimate business front with a string of car dealerships throughout Pennsylvania. By aligningwith the Caruso’s, we’d be gaining port access in Philly along with other smaller ports on the coast.

The SUV came to a stop in front of the massive main house. Guilio quickly hopped out to open the door for us. As we started up the marble steps to the porch, Edoardo walked to the landing.

With a serpentine smile, he extended his hand. Although I didn’t have a single reason not to trust him, my guard was immediately raised. “Raphael, I’m so glad you could make it.”

I extended my hand. “Thank you. I appreciate you making time for us on such short notice.”

“While I’m sure the news seemed rather unexpected to you, it is something both your father and myself have discussed in great detail.”

There was nothing quite like being twenty-eight and left out of major decisions that affected your life. “I’m sure you have.”

“I feel like I already know you from what all your father has told me.”

Inwardly, I rolled my eyes as I imagined what bullshit my father had been spewing about me. “I’m honored that you’ve decided to join your family with ours.”

Leandro cut his eyes over to me, and I could tell he was biting his tongue not to laugh at how pretentious I was being. Motioning to him, I said, “May I introduce my younger brother, Leandro.”

Shaking Leo’s hand, Eduardo said, “Welcome to my home.”

“Thank you.”

Edoardo turned his attention back to me. “I’m very anxious for you to meet my daughter.”

Forcing a smile to my face, I lied, “As am I.”

“I don’t know how much your father has told you about her.”

“Unfortunately, not much.”

“Andrea is my oldest child. Since her birth, she’s been raised to be a fine mafia wife. I can assure you will find her obedient and submissive.”

“I’m sure you’ve raised her well,” I gritted out.

Obedience and submissiveness were two qualities I loathed in women. Maybe it was because I’d grown up with a strong-willed mother. Despite his affairs, my father seemed to appreciate her fiery spirit. I didn’t want a woman cowering in my presence or saying yes to my every whim. That was another reason why I liked dating outsiders. They said what was truly on their mind and challenged me if they didn’t like something.

“On her last visit, the doctor who examined her assured us she is medically sound to bear children. I’m sure she will give you many sons.”

Disgust rolled through me as he described his daughter like one would a broodmare. I’m sure my father had said the same bullshit to Carmine Lucero about Caterina. Although it was the way things were done in our world, I sure as fuck didn’t like it. If I had daughters, I wouldnevertreat them in such a disrespectful and demeaning way.

At Edoardo’s expectant look, I reluctantly said, “Yes, that is very good news.”

“Let me call her.” After reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his phone. He dialed someone, but they didn’t answer. He immediately redialed, but once again, no one picked up. Leandro and I exchanged a look.

Edoardo’s jaw clenched as he once again used his phone. This time, however, someone picked up. “Come to my study. Now.”

When he turned back to us, he appeared flustered. “She’ll be here in just a moment.”

“No rush. I’m sure she had things to do today before our visit was announced.”

“Oh no. Whatever plans Andrea has now involve you and only you.”

I swallowed hard as I felt the marital noose tightening around me. It was one thing to be bound to someone by name. It was quite another to have my entire life bound to them.

At the knock at the door, Edoardo called, “Come in.”

Sucking in a breath, I waited for my future wife to step through the door. Leandro didn’t help my nerves when he leaned over to teasingly whisper, “Here comes Quasimodo.”

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