Page 105 of Merciless Monster

“We’ll stay put and make a few calls,” Dante answers, careful not to say anything that might upset Angelo.

“Okay.”

“Dad, would you mind going into town and getting a few things from the store?”

“Sure, my love.”

“Thank you. I’ll give you a list.”

We don't need that much, but I want to get Dad out of the house for a bit. He’s been very understanding but I don’t want him and Dante in each other’s hair for too long. It’s still early days.

“Can I go to town with Grandpa?” Angelo asks, crunching down on a piece of crispy bacon.

“No,” Dante and I say all at once.

Angelo puts down his piece of bacon and stares at us in confusion while Splash lifts his head up and looks at us.

“I mean, I’d like to have you here, my love. You and Daddy are going to build some Lego,” I add, hoping to diffuse the sudden storm with a modicum of calm.

“Yes, I’d love to build something with you, son,” Dante adds.

“Okay,” Angelo smiles and carries on eating.

The three adults at the table share a knowing look. The last thing we need is for our son and grandchild to get snatched again. I don’t think my nerves could take anymore nasty surprises.

“Okay, I think I’ve had my fill,” Dad smiles and takes his plate to the kitchen sink. “Do you want to play ball with me before I go to town, champ?” he asks Angelo.

“Sure, Grandpa. I’ll get my mitt.”

He jumps off the seat.

“Hey! What do you say?” I stop him.

“Oh, thank you for the food, Grandpa. May I be excused, Mom?”

“That’s better. Yres, my love.”

Angelo hops off the chair and rushes up the stairs to fetch his baseball mitt.”

“I see he still runs everywhere,” Angelo chuckles.

“That boy is allergic to walking,” Dad grins. “Excuse me.”

“Thank you for breakfast, Arnold. It was delicious.”

“You’re welcome.”

Baby steps.

“Did you sleep well, my gorgeous woman?” Dante coos once Dad is outside with Angelo.

“How could I not after what you did to me?” I smirk. “You?”

“Like the dead.”

“So. What are you doing today? I assume you have a plan.”

“Indeed, I do.”

---