Page 78 of Pretty Little Disaster

“You might want to take a shower before you go home,” Dario sniggers and when I look down and see the state of myself, I nod and agree.

“Thank you.” I go to shake my brother-in-law’s hand, but given the state of it he pats me on the shoulder, instead.

“You’ll have plenty of chances to make it up to me.” He smiles as he tosses me a set of keys.

“What is this?” I catch them and stare down at my sticky palm where they rest.

“That, my friend, is the key to your new home. Bruno Monti was taken into a hospice, five days ago. I assume that is what encouraged Gio to take action. Bruno has no family so his home is already empty, and there is work to be done. I need you to take over the district with immediate effect. I have spoken to his staff and they assure me that they will assist you in any way they can while you find your feet.

“Bruno’s staff, can they be trusted? If they were backing G–”

“Did you really think I would trust such an important job to a man I barely knew? Gio may have fooled some of my district leaders but as soon as I learned of his interest, I decided to make my own investigations. I sent out my eyes and ears and when it became clear that nobody in Long Island wanted him, I conducted a few private interviews with the housestaff. You should have had more faith in my decision-making, Nic.” He steps around me and starts heading up the stairs.

“I don’t know what to say.” I shake my head as I look down at the keys in my hand.

“Don’t say anything, just do what you promised to do.” Dario nods before leaving me with the keys to my own district in my hand..

I use the shower at 88 Newport Drive, and change into the spare set of clothes I brought with me. The journey back to myapartment doesn’t take long from here, and when I step out of the elevator I take a deep breath before I open the door and appreciate how good it feels to be coming home to them.

Today’s the first time I’ve left the house since our little girl was born, up until then, I’d forgotten that a world existed beyond our happy, little bubble. I open the door and almost choke on the smell of fresh flowers.

“Here he is.” Patsy rushes over to hug me. “How did the viewing go? Do you think they’ll put an offer in?” she asks, taking my arm and leading me toward Lorna. “Daddy’s going to have to sell lots of houses to keep you spoiled, isn’t he, princess?” She fusses over her granddaughter who’s currently being held by a very stiff-looking Kevin.

“I don’t think Nic has to worry too much.” Lorna, smiles up at me, looking as beautiful as ever, as she takes our tiny little bundle out of her stepdad’s arms and kisses her cheek. Seeing her being a mom is proving to be just as sexy as seeing her pregnant, and the way she’s handled everything that happened, only proves how strong and resilient she is.

“Come on, Kevin, we mustn’t outstay our welcome.” Patsy moves over to the chair and picks up her coat. “It’s been lovely to spend the afternoon with you both. I’m free anytime Nic has to work,” she tells Lorna as she buttons up.

“Mom, I don’t need a babysitter, I said I’d be fine.” Lorna smiles as she rocks our little girl over her shoulder.

How the fuck did I get so lucky?

“I know you are, dear, but the first few weeks can be overwhelming.”

“Well, as you can see, she’s not giving me any trouble.” Lorna glances down at her as she strokes her back.

“She…also needs a name. We’ll leave you both to think about that. I sent another email of suggestions last night but I doubtyou’ve had time to read it.” Patsy shakes her head at me before taking Kevin's hand and dragging him to the door.

“Call if you need anything,” she whispers to me under her breath as I see them out and once they’ve left Lorna lets out a huge sigh.

“Tough afternoon?” I kiss her cheek and take my baby girl out of her arms so I can sit down and rest with her on my chest. I’ve missed them both far too much than what must be normal.

“Mom’s great, but she doesn’t stop talking.” Lorna starts clearing up the living room and I reach out and take her hand, supporting our little girl’s head carefully with my other one.

She’s so small and delicate, I’m still scared I’ll break her but I read that she’ll feel much more relaxed if I’m confident in how I hold her.

“How was your meeting?” Lorna asks, nestling beside me and resting her head on my shoulder. There was no way I was going to say that I was tying up loose ends and take her away from these moments.

“It was good, but coming home was better.” I kiss the thick, black hair on my baby girl's head, and smile. It makes having the keys to my own district in my pocket seem insignificant.

“Mom was right, this little one does need a name.” Lorna bites her lip awkwardly. “We just can’t call her Baby Girl, forever.”

“Why, are you feeling jealous?” I tease her, and I know for a fact if I didn’t have something so precious in my hands it would earn me a smack.

“How about… Arella?” I look down at my sleepy girl and decide it suits her.

“It sounds pretty, do you know what it means?” Lorna looks as if she’s on board.

“It means angel or messenger. I think it’s fair to say that she came with a pretty big one.” I look up at the woman who gave methis beautiful gift and can’t imagine feeling anything other than love for her.

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