Page 58 of Merciless Monster

“But…” she protests softly.

“It’s alright. I’m not angry.”

I pull her close and hold her tightly against my chest.

“I love you, Mia. This is unexpected, sure. But, I’m happy. I love Angelo. I’m so happy that he’s mine.”

“Oh, Dante,” she says and buries her head in my chest. “I’m so sorry I took so long to tell you. I love you so much.”

She’s sobbing now.

“Those better be happy tears,” I whisper.

“Are you kidding?” she says and smiles up at me.

“Does he know?”

“No. I haven’t told him yet,” Mia sniffles.

“It’s alright. I’m sure we’ll come up with something.”

“You mean together?”

“Yes. We’ll tell him together. If you want to.”

“Of course I want to. That’s amazing. Thank you, Dante.”

“Wow. I’m a father.”

The weight of it hits me like a sledgehammer. I’m responsible for another. This is no small thing. We Italians live for our family and their honor.

“You’re a good one to boot.”

This changes everything. I’m scared shitless all of a sudden. I have to protect my son at all costs. This calls for a change of plan.

* * *

“Gina. It’s Dante. Can we meet for a drink? There’s something I want to discuss with you.”

“Hi, Dante. Uhm, yeah, sure.”

“Can you make it this morning? I’m sorry it's a bit short notice, but it’s important.”

“Okay. How about Giovanis at ten?”

“Great. Thanks.”

I have to talk to my cousin. She’s known Mia for a long time. She’s the best person to bounce my ideas off.

“Good morning, Champ. Did you sleep well?”

“Hey, Dad. Yup. Splash woke me up. He licked my face until I opened my eyes.”

“That sounds awful,” I laugh.

“Nah, we share kisses. I don’t mind.”

“We’d better remind Mommy to give you some dewormer.”

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