Page 90 of Hush 3: Hidden Family

I look down at the outfit I have on and question my own sanity. Why on earth did I even try this one? I’m not wearing this on my first date.

“You have lost some part of your mind. I cannot wear this,” I say.

“Why not? You look sexy and Michael won’t be able to keep his hands off you. It’s perfect.

“Those long legs were meant to be shown off. We’ll take the outfit and the shoes,” she says to the salesclerk.

“I would like to find something else.”

“Okay, fine. We’re still taking this one though,” Val huffs.

“I think we’re doing too much. I don’t even know where he’s taking me. I think something casual is in order.”

“You asked me for help, and I happen to know where he’s taking you. You should listen to your sister. I’ll never lead you astray. I’ve got your back.”

Her words fill me with so much joy. I want to be close with her like sisters. I’ve been so happy here in New York so far.

I’ve been invited to meet all of Val’s friends. I can’t wait for our outing. Although I have to say I’m a bit nervous about that.

“Okay, fine. If you know where we are going and you really think this will be appropriate, I will wear it.”

“That’s my girl. Now come on so we can find the right undergarments for when he tears you out of that little number.”

My mouth falls open and I begin to blush as I glance around at the staff members who have been helping us. They are all smiling with knowing looks. I drop my gaze to the red heels on my feet and turn to rush back into the dressing room.

Maybe I don’t want to be friends with Val. Why would she say those things in front of strangers? I don’t want people to know that I have sex with my husband.

You’re an adult, Symphony. Everyone knows you have sex with your husband. He’s your husband.

“Oh, shut up,” I chide my thoughts.

Michael

Sim spent the entire day out shopping with Val. When they returned Sim had a huge smile on her face. I love seeing her so happy.

I am grateful to Val for taking Sim in so quickly. I can see they are fond of each other and have a fast-building bond. This will be good for Sim, I think.

Her first few days here, she popped that wristband a lot. I’ve come to notice she does it when she is anxious or having difficulty finding what she wants to express. I try to give her time to gather her thoughts when I feel it’s the latter.

“You look like a nervous teen on the way to prom. You have been on dates before. Why are your knickers wound so tight?” Uri says as he walks into the kitchen where I’ve been standing, lost in thought.

“I have never taken Sim on a proper date. I don’t want anything to go wrong.”

“It is good to see you like this. I can see how much she means to you. You’re happier with her around.”

“I should have found another way,” I grumble.

“Don’t beat yourself up. You did what you felt was right for her and look how accomplished she has become. Besides, think about all Leonardo has done trying to get to you both.

“I would have had to bathe Italy in blood and burn it to ash if anything happened to either of you. Her distance gave you focus. You have gone from my baby brother, my shadow, to a man of your own.

“I don’t think you made any mistakes. Don Trovati doesn’t either. He has watched you both. When you are not with him, he still knows of your actions.”

“Thanks, Uri. I needed to hear that. I have big shoes to fill. I don’t think I thought of how enormous this undertaking would be.

“I just saw a kid in need. All I could think about was losing Papa and how we had to live after. How you had to live.

“No one ever stepped in for us. I didn’t want her to have to go through something like that. Not when … you know.

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