Page 70 of The Enforcer

“Speaking of which,” I said as I glanced at my watch. “Has anyone checked on our mother to ensure everything is going as planned?”

Our father laughed, the sound booming in the room. “You would have heard her by now if things weren’t going exactly so.”

A sharp clanging sound echoed through the house, following by a shrill cry.

“Speak of the devil,” I teased. “I’ll go see what’s going on. The guests are already arriving. Elias, put a smile on your face as you greet them and be discreet about patting them down and taking their weapons.” I wasn’t going to say please.

Elias grumbled. The one rule had already been communicated to every guest, but there were always a few who ignored the rules. We would store their weapons in a safe, and they would be returned to them as they left.

“Fine. Boss.” He hated the meet and greets more than any other soldier. He turned abruptly and headed out and my father couldn’t help but laugh.

“I’ll let you know if the house burns down,” I said in passing as I walked from the room. There was no reason to be nervous today. The morning had dawned with bright sun and only a few clouds in the sky. The weather was perfect with a light breeze.

Mama had outdone herself with decorations, lights and flowers everywhere. Just as she’d done when Dimitrios had married Willow.

Willow popped from a room, heading toward the stairs. She had her baby in her arms and I could tell she was stressed.

“What’s wrong?” I asked her.

She stopped, still jostling Anthony on her hip in her effort to try to calm him. “Do you remember how… interesting it was right before my wedding?”

I laughed. “You mean how stressful.” Mom had fired the caterer right before the event, forcing the family members to become part-time waiters. Willow had even pitched in at her own wedding. Complete with the billowy white dress. “Sadly, I’m certain it’s something you won’t forget.”

Her expression softened. “It was an amazing day, but very stressful. I think a repeat is going to happen. I had to get some air and this little monkey needs some sleep. All. Day. Long.”

At least a part-time nanny had been hired to watch the children. “I’ll see if I can fix things. You know I’m her favorite son.”

She gave me one of her stern looks and I continued laughing. “I wouldn’t worry too much. Valencia is working her magic on your mother. I’m shocked. All that talent. You better scoop her up and keep her before someone else gets their claws into her. Gorgeous picture in the news, by the way.” Her laughter filled the room.

How often had I been teased by everyone in the family about not being married at my ripe old age of thirty-nine? More than I could count. “Very funny. She’s her own woman. You know that already.”

“Yes, I do, and I think she might be the only woman who can steal your heart while controlling you at the same time.”

Now it was my turn to give her a look. She backed away, her mouth pursing. “Just saying.”

She jogged up the stairs and I took my time heading to the entertainment area.

I stood in the doorway again, watching the little bit of magic occurring.

“See. The souffle is not ruined. Now, let me grab the tray of cookies and I can even ice them.”

To see Valencia in a gorgeous dress for the wedding wearing an apron as she attempted to calm my mother was a sight to behold. I didn’t blink, couldn’t take my eyes off her. She was a creation of beauty and everything inside me stirred.

None more than my cock.

We’d shared passion the night before and some would say the time shared in the same bed was a defining moment. I wasn’t certain what to think of any of this right now.

Valencia caught my eye, grinning as well as giving me a nod of approval since I was already in my tuxedo.

“You are such a sweet girl. I will be so happy to have you as my daughter-in-law.” My mother was beaming. She could flip a switch on her emotions in seconds.

I could tell Valencia was completely uncomfortable. “Let’s not put the cart before the horse.” When she sensed my mother was confused at the American expression, she laughed. “That just means we’ve only known each other for a few days. We’re not in a relationship.”

“I know my son. He adores you.”

“Okay, Mom. The guests are arriving and you are the mother of the groom. I think it’s time to allow the caterers to finish their jobs. Don’t you?” I was pointed with her, which was the only way to calm her down.

“Yes, of course.” My mother pushed hair from her face, instantly acting as if the kitchen didn’t matter in the least.

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